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Ringen K, Dement J, Cloeren M, Almashat S, Hines S, Grier W, Quinn P, Chen A, Haas S. Mortality of older construction and craft workers employed at Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear sites: Follow-up through 2021. Am J Ind Med 2024; 67:261-273. [PMID: 38273456 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine if construction and trades workers formerly employed at US Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear weapons sites are at significant risk for occupational diseases, we studied the mortality experience of participants in the Building Trades National Medical Screening Program (BTMed). METHODS The cohort included 26,922 participants enrolled between 1998 and 2021 and 8367 deaths. Standardized mortality ratios were calculated based on US death rates. Cox models compared construction workers (n = 22,747; 7487 deaths) to two nonconstruction subpopulations: administrative, scientific and security workers (n = 1894; 330 deaths), and all other nonconstruction workers (n = 2218; 550 deaths). RESULTS Mortality was elevated for all causes, all cancers, cancers of the trachea, bronchus, lung, kidneys, and lymphatic and hematopoietic system, mesothelioma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asbestosis, transportation injuries, and other injuries, particularly accidental poisonings. There were 167 deaths from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which was lower than expected using US death rates. Overall cause-specific mortality was significantly higher among construction workers than for internal comparison groups. CONCLUSIONS Construction workers employed at DOE sites have a significantly increased risk for occupational illnesses. Apart from COVID-19 deaths, this update: (1) found that mortality among construction workers is significantly elevated compared to the US population and significantly higher than in the internal comparison populations, and (2) confirmed excess risk for these workers for first employment after 1990. Cancer mortality risks are similar to the cancers identified for DOE compensation from radiation exposures. The high lung cancer risk supports the value of early lung cancer detection. Continued medical surveillance is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Knut Ringen
- CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - John Dement
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Marianne Cloeren
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Sammy Almashat
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Stella Hines
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - William Grier
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Patricia Quinn
- CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Anna Chen
- Zenith American Solutions, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Scott Haas
- Zenith American Solutions, Tampa, Florida, USA
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Boadu EF, Okeke SR, Boadi C, Osei Bonsu E, Addo IY. Work-related respiratory health conditions among construction workers: a systematic narrative review. BMJ Open Respir Res 2023; 10:e001736. [PMID: 37364917 PMCID: PMC10410849 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2023-001736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence in both developed and developing countries indicate that occupational health hazards and diseases among construction workers constitute a significant public health challenge. While occupational health hazards and conditions in the construction sector are diverse, a burgeoning body of knowledge is emerging about respiratory health hazards and diseases. Yet, there is a notable gap in the existing literature in terms of comprehensive syntheses of the available evidence on this topic. In light of this research gap, this study systematically reviewed the global evidence on occupational health hazards and related respiratory health conditions among construction workers. METHODS Using meta-aggregation, guided by the Condition (respiratory health conditions), Context (construction industry) and Population (construction workers) (CoCoPop) framework and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, literature searches were conducted on Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar for relevant studies on respiratory health conditions affecting construction workers. Four eligibility criteria were used in scrutinising studies for inclusion. The quality of the included studies was assessed based on Joanna Briggs Institute's Critical Appraisal tool, while the reporting of the results was guided by the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis guidelines. RESULTS From an initial pool of 256 studies from the various databases, 25 studies published between 2012 and October 2022 were identified as meeting the inclusion criteria. In all, 16 respiratory health conditions were identified, with cough (ie, dry and with phlegm), dyspnoea/breathlessness and asthma emerging as the top three respiratory conditions among construction workers. The study identified six overarching themes of hazards that are associated with respiratory health conditions among construction workers. These hazards include exposure to dust, respirable crystalline silica, fumes, vapours, asbestos fibres and gases. Smoking and extended period of exposure to the respiratory hazard were found to increase the risk of contracting respiratory diseases. CONCLUSIONS Our systematic review indicates that construction workers are exposed to hazards and conditions that have adverse effects on their health and well-being. Given the considerable impact that work-related health hazards can have on the health and socioeconomic well-being of construction workers, we suggest that the implementation of a comprehensive occupational health programme is essential. Such a programme would extend beyond the mere provision of personal protective equipment and would incorporate a range of proactive measures aimed at controlling the hazards and mitigating the risk of exposure to the occupational health hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Caleb Boadi
- Department of Operations and Management Information Systems, University of Ghana, Legon, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Isaac Yeboah Addo
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Hines SE, Dement J, Cloeren M, Cranford K, Quinn PS, Ringen K. Restrictive spirometry pattern among construction trade workers. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:484-499. [PMID: 36942569 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spirometry-based studies of occupational lung disease have mostly focused on obstructive or mixed obstructive/restrictive outcomes. We wanted to determine if restrictive spirometry pattern (RSP) is associated with occupation and increased mortality. METHODS Study participants included 18,145 workers with demographic and smoking data and repeatable spirometry. The mortality analysis cohort included 15,445 workers with known vital status and cause of death through December 31, 2016. Stratified analyses explored RSP prevalence by demographic and clinical variables and trade. Log-binomial regression models explored RSP risk factors while controlling for important confounders such as smoking, obesity, and comorbidities. Cox regression models explored mortality risk by spirometry category. RESULTS Prevalence of RSP was very high (28.6%). Mortality hazard ratios for RSP were 1.50 for all causes, 1.86 for cardiovascular diseases, 2.31 for respiratory diseases, and 1.66 for lung cancer. All construction trades except painters, machinists, and roofers had significantly elevated risk for RSP compared to our internal reference group. RSP was significantly associated with both parenchymal and pleural changes seen by chest X-ray. CONCLUSIONS Construction trade workers are at significantly increased risk for RSP independent of obesity. Individuals with RSP are at increased risk for all-cause mortality as well as mortality attributable to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer. RSP deserves greater attention in occupational medicine and epidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella E Hines
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - John Dement
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Marianne Cloeren
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kim Cranford
- Zenith American Solutions, Covina, California, USA
| | - Patricia S Quinn
- Energy Employees Department, CPWR Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Knut Ringen
- Energy Employees Department, CPWR Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
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Wang M, Yao G, Sun Y, Yang Y, Deng R. Exposure to construction dust and health impacts - A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:136990. [PMID: 36309055 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Construction dust contributes a significant proportion of airborne particulate matter, affecting the health of its surrounding environment and population. Construction workers are normally exposed to dust at high levels and bear severe health risks. The existing articles concerning the exposure and health impacts of construction dust are limited, but this research field has received more and more attention. This work reviews literature in the field and tries to systematically assess the current research state. Here, we review (1) methods used to monitor or sample construction dust; (2) main characteristics of construction dust, including dust classification, exposed populations, and exposure concentrations; (3) potential health hazards and (4) health risk assessment of construction dust. From existing literature, the exposure concentrations of different types and sources of construction dust are usually the focus of attention, while its particle size distribution and chemical composition are rarely mentioned. The classification and characteristics of populations exposed to construction dust ought to be a key consideration but not clear enough so far. There still lacks in-depth study of health hazards and systematic assessment of risks associated with construction dust. In future, it is valuable to develop utility instruments to precisely monitor construction dust. Besides, control means to reduce the pollution of construction dust deserve more studies. Health hazards of construction dust should be verified by biological experiments. Moreover, emerging algorithm models should be utilized in the risk assessment. The findings will help gain a better understanding of construction dust exposure and associated health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingpu Wang
- School of Civil Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Key Laboratory of New Technology for Construction of Cities in Mountain Area, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Gang Yao
- School of Civil Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Key Laboratory of New Technology for Construction of Cities in Mountain Area, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Yujia Sun
- School of Civil Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Key Laboratory of New Technology for Construction of Cities in Mountain Area, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Civil Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China; Key Laboratory of New Technology for Construction of Cities in Mountain Area, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Rui Deng
- School of Civil Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China.
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5
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Ringen K, Dement J, Welch L, Quinn P. How much have adverse occupational health outcomes among construction workers improved over time? Evidence from 25 years of medical screening. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:18-29. [PMID: 36398410 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Construction workers have always had a high risk of occupational illnesses. We used 25 years of data from a medical screening program serving older construction workers to determine how much health outcomes have improved over the past 60 years. METHODS We investigated changes in relative risk for chest radiographs consistent with pneumoconiosis, COPD by spirometry, lung cancer mortality, and audiometry-assessed hearing impairment among workers participating in a medical screening program. Results were stratified by decade of first construction employment: before 1960, 1960-1969, 1970-1979, 1980-1989, and after 1990. Poisson and Cox regression analyses assessed relative risk by decade adjusted for age, sex, smoking, and years of construction trade work. RESULTS Subjects were 94% male and, on average, 60 years old with 25 years of construction work. When compared to workers employed before 1960, those first employed after 1990 experienced the following reductions in model-adjusted relative risks: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 32%; all pneumoconiosis, 68%; parenchymal abnormalities, 35%; pleural abnormalities, 71%; hearing impairment, 20%; and lung cancer mortality, 48%. Risks started to decline in the 1960s with greatest reductions among workers first employed after 1970. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the positive impact that adoption of occupational health protections have had over the past 60 years. The greatest risk reductions were observed for outcomes with strong regulatory and legal incentives to reduce exposures and associated risks, such as those associated with inhalation hazards (asbestos and silica), while lowest improvement was for hearing impairment, for which little regulatory enforcement and few prevention incentives have been adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Knut Ringen
- Energy Employees Department, CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - John Dement
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Laura Welch
- Energy Employees Department, CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Patricia Quinn
- Energy Employees Department, CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
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Wang R, Zhang W, Li Y, Jiang Y, Feng H, Du Y, Jiao Z, Lan L, Liu X, Li B, Liu C, Gu X, Chu F, Shen Y, Zhu C, Shao X, Tong S, Sun D. Evaluation of Risk Factors for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in the Middle-Aged and Elderly Rural Population of Northeast China Using Logistic Regression and Principal Component Analysis. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2022; 15:1717-1726. [PMID: 36119760 PMCID: PMC9477483 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s376546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the environmental, immune, and inflammatory factors associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in middle-aged and older Chinese individuals. Patients and Methods A community-based case–control study was conducted among 471 patients with COPD and 485 controls. The information on COPD of the participants was collected through face-to-face interviews, and serum samples were measured at the laboratory. The main risk factors for COPD were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and logistic regression. Results Nine hundred and fifty-six respondents were included in the analysis. The results of the PCA-logistic regression analysis showed significant differences in the environmental factors, medical history, and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels between patients and controls. COPD was markedly more usual in those with smoking index >200 (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.28–1.57); exposure to outdoor straw burning (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.47–1.83); use of coal, wood, and straw indoors (OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.92–2.78); history of respiratory disease and coronary heart disease (OR, 3.58; 95% CI, 3.12–4.10), congestive heart failure (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.09–1.38), and cerebrovascular disease (OR, 1.15; 95% CI,1.02–1.31); and higher serum level of CRP (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.11–1.30). Compared to the logistic regression analysis, PCA logistic regression analysis identified more important risk factors for COPD. Conclusion PCA-logistic regression analysis was first utilized to explore the influencing factors among rural residents in Northeast China Environmental aged 40 years and above, it was found that environmental factors, medical history, and serum CRP levels mainly affected the prevalence of COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Harbin Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, 150056, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuting Jiang
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongqi Feng
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Du
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhe Jiao
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Lan
- Harbin Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, 150056, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaona Liu
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingyun Li
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang Liu
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingbo Gu
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 571199, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Chu
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuncheng Shen
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenpeng Zhu
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinhua Shao
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Simeng Tong
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Dianjun Sun
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University (23618504), Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
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Ojha UC, Spalgais S, Ranjan A, Choudhari OK. Respiratory health evaluation of construction workers using questionnaire. RUDN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.22363/2313-0245-2021-25-4-313-320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Relevance . With growing economy and flourishing construction industries the comorbidities among construction workers are also raised. They are exposed to various dust, fumes, noxious gases and vapours making them susceptible to chronic airway diseases like Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the respiratory health status of construction workers in an unorganised sector. Materials and Methods . The data collected from National Capital of Delhi region in an unorganised sector of construction workers by using a Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire by the Institute of Occupational Health and Environmental research, Basaidarapur, Delhi, India. All the participant response was noted and the answers were evaluated to see respiratory health status of workers. Total 200 workers were evaluated. Total 182 males and 18 female participated in the study. Results and Discussion . 25% of workers reported poor health at the time of the survey, while only 4% of workers considered their health to be very good. Among the main complaints were indicated: cough, sputum production, shortness of breath, chest infections, attacks of wheezing. The overall mean of Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire core was 33.55. It increases with the working period in the construction field with 21.6% for 10years and 49.1 for 30years experienced workers, while workers with 11 to 20 years of experience, the score was 28.4. The Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire score was 35.1 in 21-30 years of experienced construction workers. Conclusion . As a result of the study, construction workers are found to be at high risk of various respiratory diseases and related disabilities. Participants in this study did not receive any treatment for respiratory problems at any clinic. This means the importance of occupational health education and the use of personal protective equipment and safe working conditions for construction workers.
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Laraqui O, Rkiek Y, Manar N, Laraqui S, Benamor J, Deschamps F, Laraqui C. Prévalence de la bronchopneumopathie chronique obstructive et ses comorbidités chez les travailleurs de la construction. ARCH MAL PROF ENVIRO 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.admp.2021.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has suggested that several health risk behaviors were more prevalent among construction workers than among the general workforce. METHODS The prevalences of six health risk behaviors among construction workers were compared with workers in other industries using data from 32 states in the 2013 to 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). RESULTS Smoking, smokeless tobacco use, binge drinking, no leisure-time physical activity, and not always using a seatbelt were significantly more prevalent (P < 0.001), and short sleep significantly less prevalent (P < 0.05), for all construction workers combined compared with workers in other industries. Prevalences varied substantially for all six health risk behaviors by construction occupation. CONCLUSIONS Due to the high prevalence of some health risk behaviors, construction workers may benefit from interventions to reduce these behaviors, particularly since they are also potentially exposed to workplace hazards.
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Dement JM, Cloeren M, Ringen K, Quinn P, Chen A, Cranford K, Haas S, Hines S. COPD risk among older construction workers-Updated analyses 2020. Am J Ind Med 2021; 64:462-475. [PMID: 33728649 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A 2010 study of construction workers participating in medical screening programs at the Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear facilities demonstrated increased chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) risk. The current study of a larger worker cohort allowed for a more nuanced analysis of COPD risk, including for employment beginning after the mid-1990s. METHODS Study participants included 17,941 workers with demographic and smoking data and spirometry with a minimum of three recorded expiratory efforts and reproducibility of forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1 ) of 0.2 L or less. COPD was defined as a FEV1 /FVC ratio below the lower limit of normal using established prediction equations without use of bronchodilation. Stratified analyses explored COPD prevalence by demographic variables and trade. Logistic regression analyses assessed risks by trade and time periods of trade and DOE site work, controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, body mass index, and smoking. RESULTS Overall COPD prevalence was 13.4% and 67.4% of cases were classified as moderate to severe. Compared to nonconstruction workers, construction trade workers were at significantly increased risk of all COPD (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.29-1.79) and even more so for severe COPD (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.32-1.96). The highest risk trades were cement masons/bricklayers (OR = 2.36; 95% CI = 1.71-3.26) and roofers (OR = 2.22; 95% CI = 1.48-3.32). Risk among workers employed after 1995 was elevated but not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Construction workers are at increased COPD risk. Results support the prevention of both smoking and occupational exposures to reduce these risks. While the number of participants employed after 1995 was small, patterns of risk were consistent with findings in the overall cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M. Dement
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health Duke University Medical Center Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Marianne Cloeren
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine University of Maryland Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Knut Ringen
- Energy Workers Department CPWR—The Center for Construction Research and Training Silver Spring Maryland USA
| | - Patricia Quinn
- Energy Workers Department CPWR—The Center for Construction Research and Training Silver Spring Maryland USA
| | - Anna Chen
- Government Services Department Zenith American Solutions Seattle Washington USA
| | - Kim Cranford
- Government Services Department Zenith American Solutions Seattle Washington USA
| | - Scott Haas
- Government Services Department Zenith American Solutions Seattle Washington USA
| | - Stella Hines
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine University of Maryland Baltimore Maryland USA
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West GH, Castaneda FI, Burrelli LG, Dresser D, Cooper MR, Brooks SB, Lippy BE. Occupational exposure risk during spraying of biocidal paint containing silver nanoparticles. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2021; 18:237-249. [PMID: 33989130 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2021.1910277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The study assessed potential to exceed occupational exposure limits while spraying paint with and without a silver nanoparticle biocidal additive. A tradesperson performed the tasks in a sealed chamber with filtered air supply. Integrated air sampling entailed transmission electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis, direct-reading of particle number concentrations, and determination of silver mass concentration by NIOSH Method 7300. Silver nanoparticles were primarily embedded in paint spray droplets but also observed as isolated particles. Using an α-level of 0.05, median nanoparticle number concentrations did not differ significantly when spraying conventional vs. biocidal paint, although statistically significant differences were observed at specific particle size ranges <100 nm. The geometric mean concentration of total silver while spraying biocidal paint (n = 6) was 2.1 µg/m3 (95% CI: 1.5-2.8 µg/m3), and no respirable silver was detected (<0.50 µg/m3). The results address a lack of silver nanoparticle exposure data in construction and demonstrate the feasibility of a practical sampling approach. Given similar conditions, the measurements suggest a low probability of exceeding a proposed silver nanoparticle exposure limit of 0.9 µg/m3 as an airborne 8-hr time-weighted average respirable mass concentration. A full workday of exposure to respirable silver at the highest possible level in this study (<0.50 µg/m3) would not exceed the exposure limit, although limitations in comparing short task-based exposures to an 8-hr exposure limit must be noted. There was airflow in the study chamber, whereas exposure levels could increase over time in work environments lacking adequate ventilation. Potential to exceed the exposure limit hinged upon the respirable fraction of the paint mist, which could vary by material and application method. Additional research would improve understanding of silver nanoparticle exposure risks among construction trades, and biological responses to these exposures. Given the potential for exposure variability on construction jobsites, safety and health professionals should be cognizant of methods to assess and control silver nanoparticle exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin H West
- CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Fatima I Castaneda
- Environmental Profiles, Inc, Columbia, Maryland
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | - Michael R Cooper
- CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Sara B Brooks
- CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Bruce E Lippy
- CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland
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Dement JM, Ringen K, Hines S, Cranford K, Quinn P. Lung cancer mortality among construction workers: implications for early detection. Occup Environ Med 2020; 77:207-213. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2019-106196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
ObjectivesThis study examined predictors of lung cancer mortality, beyond age and smoking, among construction workers employed at US Department of Energy (DOE) sites to better define eligibility for low-dose CT (LDCT) lung cancer screening.MethodsPredictive models were based on 17 069 workers and 352 lung cancer deaths. Risk factors included age, gender, race/ethnicity, cigarette smoking, years of trade or DOE work, body mass index (BMI), chest X-ray results, spirometry results, respiratory symptoms, beryllium sensitisation and personal history of cancer. Competing risk Cox models were used to obtain HRs and to predict 5-year risks.ResultsFactors beyond age and smoking included in the final predictive model were chest X-ray changes, abnormal lung function, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), respiratory symptoms, BMI, personal history of cancer and having worked 5 or more years at a DOE site or in construction. Risk-based LDCT eligibility demonstrated improved sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value compared with current US Preventive Services Task Force guidelines. The risk of lung cancer death from 5 years of work in the construction industry or at a DOE site was comparable with the risk from a personal cancer history, a family history of cancer or a diagnosis of COPD. LDCT eligibility criteria used for DOE construction workers, which includes factors beyond age and smoking, identified 86% of participants who eventually would die from lung cancer compared with 51% based on age and smoking alone.ConclusionsResults support inclusion of risk from occupational exposures and non-malignant respiratory clinical findings in LDCT clinical guidelines.
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da-Silva-Filho PL, Botelho C, Castro HA, Ferreira MJM, Silva AMC. Prevalence and factors associated with respiratory symptoms among civil construction workers: an occupational health surveillance proposal. Rev Bras Med Trab 2020; 17:119-129. [PMID: 32270112 PMCID: PMC7138489 DOI: 10.5327/z1679443520190263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The civil construction industry is associated with the some of the highest morbidity and mortality rates in Brazil. Despite their epidemiological relevance, occupational health surveillance actions within the primary care setting still exhibit weaknesses. OBJECTIVE To analyze the prevalence of and factors associated with respiratory symptoms among civil construction workers in Cuiaba, Mato Grosso, Brazil. METHODS Cross-sectional analytic study conducted with 545 civil construction workers to analyze occupational health surveillance actions. Presence of respiratory symptoms was investigated by means of the British Medical Research Council questionnaire on respiratory symptoms. The Mantel-Haenszel χ 2 test was used for bivariate analysis and Poisson regression for multivariate analysis. The significance level was set to 5%. RESULTS Most participants were young adults and almost half exhibited respiratory symptoms. The odds to develop cough were higher for the participants exposed to chemicals (PR=1.70; 95%CI 1.22-2.37). The odds to develop wheezing were higher for the participants who had not undergone pre-employment spirometry (PR=1.57; 95%CI 1.17-2.10). CONCLUSION Biological monitoring of civil construction workers might be useful to improve occupational health surveillance actions within the primary care setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Clóvis Botelho
- Institute of Collective Health, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso – Cuiaba (MT), Brazil
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Ringen K, Dement J, Hines S, Quinn P, Chen A, Haas S. Mortality of older construction and craft workers employed at department of energy nuclear sites: Follow-up through 2016. Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:742-754. [PMID: 31380577 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine if construction and trades workers employed at U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear sites facilities are at significant risk for diseases associated with occupational exposures, we compared the mortality experience of participants in the Building Trades National Medical Screening Program (BTMed) to that of the US population. METHODS The cohort includes 24,086 BTMed participants enrolled between 1998 and 2016 and 5203 deaths. Cause-specific standardized mortality ratios were calculated based on US death rates. RESULTS Mortality was elevated for all causes, all cancers, cancers of the trachea, bronchus, and lung and lymphatic and hematopoietic system, mesothelioma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asbestosis, transportation injuries, and other injuries, particularly those caused by accidental poisoning, suggesting a possible effect of the opioid epidemic. CONCLUSIONS Apart from other injuries, mortality patterns were very similar to those reported in the past in this population. Construction workers employed at DOE sites have a significantly increased risk for occupational illnesses. Risks are associated with employment during all time periods covered including possibly after 1990. The cancer risks closely match the cancers identified for DOE compensation from radiation exposures. The high risk of lung cancer supports the value of early lung cancer detection. Continued medical surveillance is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Knut Ringen
- Energy Workers Department CPWR ‐ The Center for Construction Research and Training Seattle Washington
| | - John Dement
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine Duke University Medical Center Durham North Carolina
| | - Stella Hines
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine University of Maryland Baltimore Maryland
| | - Patricia Quinn
- Energy Workers Department CPWR ‐ The Center for Construction Research and Training Seattle Washington
| | - Anna Chen
- Government Services Department Zenith American Solutions Seattle Washington
| | - Scott Haas
- Government Services Department Zenith American Solutions Seattle Washington
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Welch LS, Dement JM, Cranford K, Shorter J, Quinn PS, Madtes DK, Ringen K. Early detection of lung cancer in a population at high risk due to occupation and smoking. Occup Environ Med 2018; 76:137-142. [PMID: 30415231 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2018-105431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The US National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends two pathways for eligibility for Early Lung Cancer Detection (ELCD) programmes. Option 2 includes individuals with occupational exposures to lung carcinogens, in combination with a lesser requirement on smoking. Our objective was to determine if this algorithm resulted in a similar prevalence of lung cancer as has been found using smoking risk alone, and if so to present an approach for lung cancer screening in high-risk worker populations. METHODS We enrolled 1260 former workers meeting NCCN criteria, with modifications to account for occupational exposures in an ELCD programme. RESULTS At baseline, 1.6% had a lung cancer diagnosed, a rate similar to the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial (NLST). Among NLST participants, 59% were current smokers at the time of baseline scan or had quit smoking fewer than 15 years prior to baseline; all had a minimum of 30 pack-years of smoking. Among our population, only 24.5% were current smokers and 40.1% of our participants had smoked fewer than 30 pack-years; only 43.5% would meet entry criteria for the NLST. The most likely explanation for the high prevalence of screen-detected lung cancers in the face of a reduced risk from smoking is the addition of occupational risk factors for lung cancer. CONCLUSION Occupational exposures to lung carcinogens should be incorporated into criteria used for ELCD programmes, using the algorithm developed by NCCN or with an individualised risk assessment; current risk assessment tools can be modified to incorporate occupational risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura S Welch
- Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - John M Dement
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Community and Family Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kim Cranford
- Zenith American Solutions, Inc, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Janet Shorter
- Zenith American Solutions, Inc, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Patricia S Quinn
- Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - David K Madtes
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Knut Ringen
- Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
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Kurtzer D, Blackmore N, Farrugia N, Chileshe N. Productivity enablers and inhibiting health and wellbeing practices of South Australian construction site-based workers: a qualitative study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/15623599.2018.1496538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Kurtzer
- School of Natural and Built Environments, Natural and Built Environment Research Centre (NBERC), University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nathan Blackmore
- School of Natural and Built Environments, Natural and Built Environment Research Centre (NBERC), University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicholas Farrugia
- School of Natural and Built Environments, Natural and Built Environment Research Centre (NBERC), University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicholas Chileshe
- School of Natural and Built Environments, Natural and Built Environment Research Centre (NBERC), University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate construction workers' health behaviors, attitudes, and perceptions of health risks from work related and non-work related hazards. METHODS Construction workers completed a survey that assessed hazardous health behaviors (such as alcohol and tobacco use), attitudes toward health, and health risk perceptions. We compared construction workers' health behaviors to general population data from the behavioral risk factor surveillance system (BRFSS). RESULTS Construction workers reported greater smoking and drinking compared with their age-adjusted white man counterparts in Missouri. While there was a high awareness of work-related health and safety risks, concerns about general health risks did not correspond with risks from relevant health behaviors. CONCLUSION Educational efforts have created awareness of work-related safety and health issues in this population; similar efforts are needed to address disparities of general health behaviors.
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Dement J, Welch LS, Ringen K, Cranford K, Quinn P. Hearing loss among older construction workers: Updated analyses. Am J Ind Med 2018; 61:326-335. [PMID: 29492986 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A prior study of this construction worker population found significant noise-associated hearing loss. This follow-up study included a much larger study population and consideration of additional risk factors. METHODS Data included audiometry, clinical chemistry, personal history, and work history. Qualitative exposure metrics for noise and solvents were developed. Analyses compared construction workers to an internal reference group with lower exposures and an external worker population with low noise exposure. RESULTS Among participants (n = 19 127) an overall prevalence of hearing loss of 58% was observed, with significantly increased prevalence across all construction trades. Construction workers had significantly increased risk of hearing loss compared to reference populations, with increasing risk by work duration. Noise exposure, solvent exposure, hypertension, and smoking were significant risk factors in multivariate models. CONCLUSIONS Results support a causal relationship between construction trades work and hearing loss. Prevention should focus on reducing exposure to noise, solvents, and cigarette smoke.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Dement
- Division of Occupational and Environmental MedicineDuke University Medical CenterDurhamNorth Carolina
| | - Laura S. Welch
- Center for Construction Research and TrainingSilver SpringMaryland
| | - Knut Ringen
- Center for Construction Research and TrainingSilver SpringMaryland
| | | | - Patricia Quinn
- Center for Construction Research and TrainingSilver SpringMaryland
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Baur X, Terracini B, Belpoggi F, Budnik LT, Woitowitz HJ, Soskolne CL. Commentary to the article lung function not affected by asbestos exposure in workers with normal Computed Tomography scan, by Schikowsky, Felten, et al., 2017. Am J Ind Med 2018. [PMID: 29542198 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xaver Baur
- European Society for Environmental and Occupational Medicine; Berlin Germany
| | - Benedetto Terracini
- Unit of Cancer Epidemiology; CPO Piemonte and University of Turin; Turin Italy
| | - Fiorella Belpoggi
- Ramazzini Institute, Cesare Maltoni Cancer Research Centre; Bentivoglio, Bologna Italy
| | - Lygia T Budnik
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg and European Society for Environmental and Occupational Medicine; Berlin Germany
| | | | - Colin L. Soskolne
- University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
- Health Research Institute, University of Canberra; Canberra Australia
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Borup H, Kirkeskov L, Hanskov DJA, Brauer C. Systematic review: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and construction workers. Occup Med (Lond) 2017; 67:199-204. [PMID: 28204712 PMCID: PMC5939651 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqx007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Between 15 and 20% of prevalent cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have been attributed to occupational exposures to vapours, gases, dusts and fumes. Dust at construction sites is still a challenge, but no overview exists of COPD among construction workers. Aims To assess the occurrence of COPD among construction workers. Methods We performed a systematic search in PubMed and Embase between 1 January 1990 and 31 August 2016 in order to identify epidemiological studies with a risk estimate for either COPD morbidity/mortality or a spirometry-based definition of airway obstruction among workers in the construction industry. The authors independently assessed studies to determine their eligibility and performed a quality assessment of the included papers. Results Twelve studies were included. Nine studies found a statistically significant association between COPD and work in the construction industry, although only among never-smokers in one study and only for the period after 2000 in another study. One study found that the annual decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s was significantly higher among construction workers compared with bus drivers. Conclusions This review suggests that COPD occurs more often among construction workers than among workers who are not exposed to construction dust. It is not possible to draw any conclusions on specific subgroups as most studies analysed construction workers as one united group. In addition, no potential exposure–effect relationship could be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Borup
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2400Denmark
| | - L Kirkeskov
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2400Denmark
| | - D J A Hanskov
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2400Denmark
| | - C Brauer
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2400Denmark
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Risk Evaluation of Construction Workers' Exposure to Silica Dust and the Possible Lung Function Impairments. TANAFFOS 2017; 16:295-303. [PMID: 29849687 PMCID: PMC5971761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aerosols generated during construction activities are an integral part of building operations. Considering the nature of materials used in construction activities, respirable dust contains crystalline silica and particulates not otherwise specified (PNOS). Due to lack of data regarding the occupational health status of Iranian construction workers, the objective of this study was to evaluate occupational exposure to silica and to examine their respiratory health status. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this cross sectional study, 85 construction workers and 40 controls (without active exposure to construction dust) were studied. The workers' exposure to PNOS and silica aerosols was monitored by the NIOSH method No.0600 and a new Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)-based method, respectively. All subjects were also monitored for lung function parameters, such as forced expiratory volume/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), forced expiratory flow (FEF25-75), FVC, and FEV1. RESULTS The mean exposure of workers to respirable PNOS and silica was 9.8 (0.35) and 0.13 (0.019) mg/m3, respectively. The groups of construction workers showed significant differences in exposure to PNOS (P< 0.001) and silica (P= 0.007). The mean pulmonary function parameters, including FEV1% and FVC%, were significantly lower among construction workers, compared to the control group (P< 0.001 and P= 0.009, respectively). The pulmonary status of 51.8% of construction workers showed moderate restriction, while 4.70% exhibited obstruction. CONCLUSION Considering the construction workers' excessive exposure to PNOS and silica, besides depressed lung function parameters, they can be classified as a high-risk group for respiratory diseases.
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Dement JM, Welch LS, Ringen K, Cranford K, Quinn P. Longitudinal decline in lung function among older construction workers. Occup Environ Med 2017; 74:701-708. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2016-104205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Welch LS, Dement J, Ringen K, Cranford K, Quinn PS. Impact of Secondary Prevention in an Occupational High-Risk Group. J Occup Environ Med 2017; 59:67-73. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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