Seafarers’ Health Guide: 5 Diseases to Prevent and Manage

Seafarers face unique health risks due to long hours, limited medical access, and exposure to various environmental and occupational hazards. Awareness of common diseases and their prevention can help maintain their well-being.

1. Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

Seafarers are prone to heart disease due to stress, poor diets, and limited exercise.

Symptoms: Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat.
Risk Factors: High cholesterol, smoking, alcohol use, and lack of physical activity.
Prevention: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, monitor blood pressure, reduce tobacco and alcohol use, and manage stress with relaxation techniques.

2. Respiratory Infections

Confined ship spaces increase the risk of respiratory illnesses like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and COVID-19.

Symptoms: Persistent cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
Risk Factors: Poor ventilation, fatigue, and exposure to infected crew members.
Prevention: Get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, ensure ventilation, avoid smoking, and wear protective gear when necessary.

3. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)

Seafarers often experience back pain and joint strain from heavy lifting and repetitive tasks.

Symptoms: Pain, stiffness, limited movement, and numbness.
Risk Factors: Poor posture, improper lifting techniques, and lack of exercise.
Prevention: Practice proper lifting, stretch regularly, maintain good posture, and use ergonomic equipment.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections

Foodborne illnesses can spread quickly on ships.

Symptoms: Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration.
Risk Factors: Contaminated food and poor hygiene.
Prevention: Follow proper food handling, ensure clean drinking water, wash hands often, and sanitize shared areas.

5. Mental Health Disorders

Isolation, stress, and fatigue contribute to depression and anxiety at sea.

Symptoms: Sadness, worry, insomnia, and social withdrawal.
Risk Factors: Long periods away from home, lack of support, and high work pressure.
Prevention: Stay connected with loved ones, participate in social activities, practice mindfulness, and seek mental health support when needed.

Prioritizing Preventive Health

Shipping companies can support their seafarers by providing quality pre-employment medical exams that include regular monitoring of known conditions and continuity of care, healthy lifestyle counseling, vaccinations, health and wellness education and access to resources that promote and support mental health.

Halcyon’s Commitment

Halcyon Health Network Inc. offers seafarers nutrition and brain health services, webinars and the Halcyon Health App. The app provides on-board health tracking, health and lifestyle information, and expert guidance to help seafarers maintain a balanced lifestyle while out at sea.

Let's Connect!

Follow HHNI on Facebook:
Follow HHNI on Instagram:

Follow BrainHealth on Facebook:
Follow BrainHealth on Instagram:

www.facebook.com/halcyonhealthnet
www.instagram.com/halcyonhealthnet

www.facebook.com/brainhealthph
www.instagram.com/brainhealthph

Our articles are medically reviewed

At Halcyon, we continuously monitor developments in health and wellness, updating our articles with new information as it becomes available.

Learn more about our editorial process.

History and Version

August 14, 2025 (Current version)

Written By
Maureen Temblor

Edited By
Angela Ventura

Copy Edited By
Krisstel Dacumos

Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Glennda Canlas
Dr. Judy Rivera-Halago

Tag Here Cardiovascular Disease Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)Respiratory Infections Seafarers

Halcyon News