OBTAINING AN EXPOSURE HISTORY

Because many environmental diseases either manifest as common medical problems or have nonspecific symptoms, an exposure history is vital for correct diagnosis. The primary care physician can-by obtaining a thorough exposure history-play an important role in detecting, treating and preventing diseases caused by toxic exposure. The exposure history consists of three parts: exposure survey, which includes information about current and past exposure, and health and safety practices at work; work history, including all past jobs and military service; and environmental history, which includes information about the home environment.