Presenting concern | Possible MSHT-related cause |
Skin rash, skin damage, itching, weeping, discomfort. | Unsanitary conditions increase the risk of skin infection, infestation and exacerbation of pre-existing eczema or skin conditions. Stress may also aggravate skin. Contact dermatitis may occur with use of cleaning chemicals or pesticides without protective equipment. |
Hair loss, hair texture change. | Secondary to stress, micronutrient deficiency or infection (including fungal). |
Dental pain, tooth damage and loss. | Tooth and gum disease due to lack of dental hygiene and ability to provide dental self-care, dental infection, injury and/or dental decay secondary to illegal substance use (notably methamphetamine ‘meth mouth’, cocaine and heroin). |
Vision and eye problems | May be caused by chronic and/or uncorrected eye conditions, secondary to environmental exposure to irritants or infection (ie, exposure to farm pesticides and animal stool without hygiene measures or protective equipment). |
Hearing problems | May be chronic and uncorrected or secondary to unprotected noise exposure, infection or injury. |
MSHT, modern slavery and human trafficking.