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Zarus GM, Ruiz P, Benedict R, Brenner S, Carlson K, Jeong L, Morata TC. Which Environmental Pollutants Are Toxic to Our Ears?-Evidence of the Ototoxicity of Common Substances. TOXICS 2024; 12:650. [PMID: 39330578 PMCID: PMC11435700 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12090650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
Ototoxicity refers to the adverse effects of substances on auditory or vestibular functions. This study examines the evidence of ototoxicity's association with exposure to common environmental pollutants, as documented in toxicological profiles by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Our aim was to evaluate whether the evidence supports modifying the charting of ototoxic effects in the summary tables of these toxicological profiles and providing a guide for scientists to access these data. Health outcomes of interest included hearing loss, vestibular effects, cochlear lesions, tonal alterations, cellular damage, and ototoxicity-related outcomes (neurological, nephrotoxic, hepatic, and developmental effects). We obtained ototoxicity information for 62 substances. Hearing-related effects were reported, along with neurological effects. Overall, 26 profiles reported strong evidence of ototoxicity, including 13 substances previously designated as ototoxic by other health and safety agencies. Commonly studied outcomes included hearing loss, damage to ear anatomy, and auditory dysfunction. Vestibular dysfunction and tinnitus are rarely studied. Our findings highlight the lack of conclusive evidence of ototoxic properties for many substances, especially for pesticides and herbicides. This review supports charting the evidence of ototoxicity separately in toxicological profiles' summary tables. Improving the communication of ototoxicity-related health effects might impact their recognition and prompt further research. A stronger evidence base could support improved prevention efforts in terms of serious health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M. Zarus
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (P.R.); (R.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Patricia Ruiz
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (P.R.); (R.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Rae Benedict
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (P.R.); (R.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Stephan Brenner
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (P.R.); (R.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Krystin Carlson
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA; (K.C.); (T.C.M.)
| | - Layna Jeong
- Georgia Tech School of Biological Sciences, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA;
| | - Thais C. Morata
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA; (K.C.); (T.C.M.)
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Asghari M, Gorji R, Moradzadeh R, Kohansal B, Abbasinia M, Goudarzi F. A risk model for occupational noise-induced hearing loss in workers. Work 2024; 77:1017-1022. [PMID: 37781851 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230181] [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] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational hearing loss is one of the most common work-related diseases with various risk factors and considerable negative impacts on both physical and mental well-being of affected workers. Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) has a complex interaction with personal, environmental and occupational factors. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop a risk model for ONIHL in workers by identifying risk factors and their interactions. METHODS The subjects were 605 males in an industrial factory in Arak, Iran. The study took place between 2022 and 2023. The sociodemographic and occupational characteristics were collected by a health technician using questionnaires and medical records. Hearing status was assessed using audiometry by a qualified audiologist. Hearing loss was analyzed by univariate logistic analysis including age, smoking, medical history, type of occupation, and some workplace hazards. The risk model was generated by logistic regression. RESULTS Hearing loss in the participants was 44.13% (n = 267). In univariate logistic analysis, age (OR: 2.93,95% CI: 1.848-4.656), smoking (OR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.224-2.655), work experience (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.016-1.107), previous exposure to noise (OR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.112-2.312) or vibration (OR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.150-2.475) and type of occupation (OR: 2.126, 95% CI: 1.055-4.285) were associated with an increased risk of ONIHL (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION It was found that vibration exposure, work experience, previous noise exposure, type of occupation as well as age and smoking significantly affected the likelihood of developing ONIHL. This risk model could help management to prevent ONIHL and enhance application-oriented research on the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Asghari
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, School of Public Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | | | - Rahmatollah Moradzadeh
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Behieh Kohansal
- Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Marzieh Abbasinia
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, School of Public health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Forough Goudarzi
- Department of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management, Environmental Science Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
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Themann CL, Masterson EA, Peterson JS, Murphy WJ. Preventing Occupational Hearing Loss: 50 Years of Research and Recommendations from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Semin Hear 2023; 44:351-393. [PMID: 37818146 PMCID: PMC10562059 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1769499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
For more than 50 years, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), part of the United States (U.S.) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has been actively working to reduce the effects of noise and ototoxic chemicals on worker hearing. NIOSH has pioneered basic and applied research on occupational hearing risks and preventive measures. The Institute has issued recommendations and promoted effective interventions through mechanisms ranging from formal criteria documents to blogs and social media. NIOSH has conducted surveillance and published statistics to guide policy and target prevention efforts. Over the past five decades, substantial progress has been made in raising awareness of noise as a hazard, reducing the risk of occupational hearing loss, improving the use of hearing protection, and advancing measurement and control technologies. Nevertheless, noise remains a prevalent workplace hazard and occupational hearing loss is still one of the most common work-related conditions. NIOSH continues to work toward preventing the effects of noise and ototoxicants at work and has many resources to assist audiologists in their hearing loss prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christa L. Themann
- Noise and Bioacoustics Team, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Elizabeth A. Masterson
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jeffrey Shawn Peterson
- Pittsburgh Mining Research Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - William J. Murphy
- Noise and Bioacoustics Team, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Stephenson and Stephenson Research and Consulting, LLC, Batavia, Ohio
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4
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Beaver C, Schneider J. Evaluating the potential impact of ototoxicant exposure on worker health. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2023; 20:520-535. [PMID: 37540204 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2023.2240874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure to ototoxicants, substances that can cause hearing loss alone or exacerbate hearing loss when exposure occurs in combination with noise, is a workplace hazard that is poorly understood. A review of existing research indicates that some solvents and heavy metals may be ototoxic, but few studies have attempted to estimate the impact of ototoxicant exposure on the United States worker population. Researchers examined trends in workplace exposure to ototoxicants among workers in the United States by comparing exposure data collected by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration against worker hearing loss data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for 2012-2019. The study found that the noise exposure data was strongly correlated to the hearing loss data using Pearson's correlation (p < .001), confirming that the exposure data collected by OSHA is predictive of the risk of occupational illness as reported by BLS. Chi-square analysis indicates that reported hearing loss was more common among industry subsectors with exposure to ototoxicants than those without exposure to ototoxicants. These findings suggest that workers with coexposure to ototoxicants and noise may be at a higher risk of experiencing hearing loss than those exposed to noise alone, and action should be taken to minimize this risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody Beaver
- Collaboratory for Resiliency and Recovery, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer Schneider
- Collaboratory for Resiliency and Recovery, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
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Shkembi A, Smith LM, Neitzel RL. Risk perception or hazard perception? Examining misperceptions of miners' personal exposures to noise. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 254:114263. [PMID: 37742520 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114263] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
While perceptions of risk have been examined in the workplace to understand safety behavior, hazard perception has been overlooked, particularly for chemical, physical, and biological agents. This study sought to establish the prevalence of one type of mismatch in hazard perception, - noise misperception - among miners, to examine whether different types of noisy environments (e.g., continuous, highly variable, etc.) alter workers' misperception of their noise exposures, and to evaluate whether noise misperception is associated with hearing protection device (HPD) use behavior. In this cross-sectional study across 10 surface mines in the USA, 135 normal-hearing participants were surveyed on their perceptions of exposure to noise at work and were monitored for three shifts, each with personal noise dosimetry, to examine which workers had a mismatch in perceived versus true noise exposure by 8-hr, time-weighted average, NIOSH exposure limits (TWANIOSH). Mixed effects logistic regression and probit Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) models examining on the odds of noise misperception associated with four different noise metrics (kurtosis, crest factor, variability, and number of peaks >135 dB) were used to determine which types of noisy environments may influence noise misperception. The relationship between noise misperception and odds of not wearing HPDs during a work shift was further examined. Our findings showed that nearly 1 in 3 workers underestimated their exposure to noise when their true exposure was in fact hazardous (TWANIOSH≥85 dBA) for at least one shift, and 6% misperceived hazardous exposures for all shifts. Work shifts with highly kurtotic noise distributions (>3) had 3.1 (95% CI: 1.1 to 8.4) times significantly higher odds of resulting in misperceived noise; no other noise metric was significantly associated with noise misperception. BKMR modeling provided further evidence that kurtosis dominates this relationship, with an IQR increase in kurtosis significantly associated with 1.68 (95% CI: 1.13 to 2.50) higher odds of noise misperception. Although not statistically significant, misperception of hazardous noise exposure was associated with 3.2 (95% CI: 0.8 to 12.5) times higher odds of not using earplugs during a work shift. Misperception of noise occurs in the workplace, and likely occurs for other physical, chemical, and biological exposures. This hazard misperception may influence risk perceptions and worker behavior and reduce the effectiveness of behavior-related training. Elimination, substitution, or engineering controls of exposures is the best way to prevent hazard misperceptions and exposure-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abas Shkembi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Lauren M Smith
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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Batessova F, Omirbay R, Sattarova G, Zholmagambetov N, Zholmagambetov S, Dostayeva A, Suleimenov N, Medeubayev N. Reducing industrial noise by the use of damping alloys when manufacturing mining equipment parts. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17152. [PMID: 37360086 PMCID: PMC10285147 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The existing experience of noise and vibration specialists has shown that the problem of noise reduction is very relevant, especially for the mining industry. Traditional methods of dealing with industrial noise are not effective enough. In solving this issue, it is advisable to reduce the noise level at the source of its occurrence through the use of metal alloys with enhanced dissipative properties. The article presents the results of experimental studies of developing steels with increased damping properties for manufacturing perforator parts: bit bodies and drill rods. In this article, the sound pressure level of alloys dependence on the type of heat treatment has been studied, and the optimal content of alloying elements has been established to ensure the development of the ferrite-pearlite structure. This structure is characterized by an increased dislocation density and is the reason for reducing the noise of the drill rod and the body of the perforator bit by 10-12 dB A. In addition, the article establishes the pattern of noise intensity at different frequency intervals for standard and developed alloys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firuza Batessova
- Department of Engineering Systems and Networks, Satbayev University, Satpaev St., No. 22a, Almaty 050013, Kazakhstan
| | - Roza Omirbay
- Institute of Oil and Gas Business and Geology and IT, Caspian University, Seifullin St., No. 521, Almaty, 50000, Kazakhstan
| | - Gulmira Sattarova
- Department of Mine Aerology and Occupational Safety, Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical University NJSC, Nursultan Nazarbayev Ave., No. 56, Karaganda, 100027, Kazakhstan
| | - Nurbek Zholmagambetov
- Department of Mine Aerology and Occupational Safety, Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical University NJSC, Nursultan Nazarbayev Ave., No. 56, Karaganda, 100027, Kazakhstan
| | - Syrlybek Zholmagambetov
- Department of Mine Aerology and Occupational Safety, Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical University NJSC, Nursultan Nazarbayev Ave., No. 56, Karaganda, 100027, Kazakhstan
| | - Ardak Dostayeva
- Department of Nanotechnology and Metallurgy, Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical University NJSC, Nursultan Nazarbayev Ave., No. 56, Karaganda, 100027, Kazakhstan
| | - Nurlan Suleimenov
- Department of Mine Aerology and Occupational Safety, Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical University NJSC, Nursultan Nazarbayev Ave., No. 56, Karaganda, 100027, Kazakhstan
| | - Nurken Medeubayev
- Department of Mine Aerology and Occupational Safety, Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical University NJSC, Nursultan Nazarbayev Ave., No. 56, Karaganda, 100027, Kazakhstan
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Wingate KC, Scott KA, Pratt S, King B, Esswein EJ, Ramirez-Cardenas A, Snawder J, Hagan-Haynes K. Self-reported exposure to hazards and mitigation strategies among oil and gas extraction workers in three U.S. states. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2022; 19:676-689. [PMID: 36095237 PMCID: PMC9691573 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2022.2123496] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Numerous health and safety hazards exist at U.S. onshore oil and gas extraction worksites. Higher fatal injury rates have been reported among drilling and servicing companies, which are more likely to employ workers in construction and extraction occupations, compared to operators that employ more workers in management and office and administrative support roles. However, there is little information describing the extent to which workers encounter these hazards, are provided hazard mitigation strategies by their employers, or use personal protective equipment (PPE). A cross-sectional survey of 472 U.S. oil and gas extraction workers was conducted to identify and characterize factors related to on-the-job fatalities, injuries, and illnesses and determine workers' health and safety concerns. Workers were employed by servicing companies (271/472, 57.4%), drilling contractors (106/472, 22.5%), and operators (95/472, 20.1%). The likelihood of contact with hazardous substances varied by substance and company type. Drilling and servicing employees had significantly higher odds of self-reported contact with pipe dope (ORdrilling = 10.07, 95% CI: 1.74-63.64; ORservicing = 5.95, 95% CI: 2.18-18.34), diesel exhaust (ORdrilling = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.15-5.05; ORservicing = 4.93, 95% CI: 2.73-10.32), and drilling mud (ORdrilling = 24.36, 95% CI: 4.45-144.69; ORservicing = 3.48, 95% CI: 1.24-12.20), compared to operators. Safety policies, programs, and trainings were commonly reported by workers, although substance-specific training (e.g., respirable crystalline silica hazards) was less common. Differences in self-reported employer PPE requirements and worker use of PPE when needed or required for safety highlight a need for novel strategies to improve the use of PPE. Overall, this study highlights differences in work conditions by company type and uncovers gaps in employer administrative controls and PPE use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin C. Wingate
- Western States Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Kenneth A. Scott
- Western States Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Stephanie Pratt
- Western States Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Bradley King
- Western States Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Eric J. Esswein
- Western States Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Denver, Colorado
| | | | - John Snawder
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Kyla Hagan-Haynes
- Western States Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Denver, Colorado
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8
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Shkembi A, Smith LM, Neitzel RL. Retrospective assessment of the association between noise exposure and nonfatal and fatal injury rates among miners in the United States from 1983 to 2014. Am J Ind Med 2022; 65:30-40. [PMID: 34706100 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mining is a significant economic force in the United States but has historically had among the highest nonfatal injury rates across all industries. Several factors, including workplace hazards and psychosocial stressors, may increase injury and fatality risk. Mining is one of the noisiest industries; however, the association between injury risk and noise exposure has not been evaluated in this industry. In this ecological study, we assessed the association between noise exposure and nonfatal and fatal occupational injury rates among miners. METHODS Federal US mining accident, injury, and illness data sets from 1983 to 2014 were combined with federal quarterly mining employment and production reports to quantify annual industry rates of nonfatal injuries and fatalities. An existing job-exposure matrix for occupational noise was used to estimate annual industry time-weighted average (TWA, dBA) exposures. Negative binomial models were used to assess relationships between noise, hearing conservation program (HCP) regulation changes in 2000, year, and mine type with incidence rates of injuries and fatalities. RESULTS Noise, HCP regulation changes, and mine type were each independently associated with nonfatal injuries and fatalities. In multivariate analysis, each doubling (5 dB increase) of TWA was associated with 1.08 (95% confidence interval: 1.05, 1.11) and 1.48 (1.23, 1.78) times higher rate of nonfatal injuries and fatalities, respectively. HCP regulation changes were associated with 0.61 (0.54, 0.70) and 0.49 (0.34, 0.71) times lower nonfatal injury and fatality rates, respectively. CONCLUSION Noise may be a significant independent risk factor for injuries and fatalities in mining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abas Shkembi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lauren M Smith
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Integrated Underground Mining Hazard Assessment, Management, Environmental Monitoring, and Policy Control in Pakistan. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132413505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This study focused on the significance of underground mining in Pakistan, resulting in the employment of operational staff to undertake the primary tasks of this sector, such as explosions, rock excavation, mineral research, mining-supporting walls, and mine compactivity. Occupational accidents and illnesses arise due to the activities mentioned above because the working circumstances are not optimal. The decision-matrix risk-assessment (DMRA) approach, in which incidents are evaluated according to their severity and probability, was also utilized to improve working conditions, including public health and environment protection. To assess the risks and to select which actions should continue in the same manner, we highlighted hazards that need control measures and, as the last option, those that must be stopped. By taking into account the results of the study, corrective actions were proposed that can help avoid the occurrence of the presented accidents through applying occupational safety and health regulations issued by the Department of Minerals and Mines, which is a governmental entity responsible for both the issuing and the compliance to those regulations. The current study also outlined the requirements that must be reported under mining-related laws.
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10
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Psychological profile in noise-induced hearing loss patients: a pilot study. ACTA BIOMEDICA SCIENTIFICA 2021. [DOI: 10.29413/abs.2021-6.5.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Noise-induced hearing loss is a rather prevalent condition and can be distressing for a substantial proportion of patients, although researches describing psychological characteristics in noise-induced occupational hearing loss patients are not numerous.The study aims to find the effects of occupational noise on the psychological status among noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) patients.Methods. Two groups, cross-sectional design. Study sample: 44 occupational noiseinduced male forming NIHL patients group (n = 21) and a control group (n = 23). Both groups were tested using the Russian versions of psychological questionnaires.Results. Almost one third of NIHL patients are the highly anxiety individuals as compared with the healthy participants (p < 0.01). Mixed type of response to the surrounding reality combined a high need for self-actualization with high self-control, tendency to inhibit and restrain behavioral reactions, in this case it is possible to “overlap” both neurotic and behavioral responses, which can affect the general overstrain and manifest by the somatization of the internal conflict. In general, NIHL patients use constructive cognitive, emotional and behavioral coping strategies. Patients use both constructive and tense defense mechanisms. Conclusion. It has been established that in patients with NIHL, in comparison with practically healthy persons, tension accumulates, and a tendency to psychotraumatization appears. However, it is currently difficult to determine whether NIHL is a predisposing factor for these psychological characteristics, so further research is needed to determine how significant this relationship is. Key words: noise-induced hearing loss, occupational noise, psychological profile>˂ 0.01). Mixed type of response to the surrounding reality combined a high need for self-actualization with high self-control, tendency to inhibit and restrain behavioral reactions, in this case it is possible to “overlap” both neurotic and behavioral responses, which can affect the general overstrain and manifest by the somatization of the internal conflict. In general, NIHL patients use constructive cognitive, emotional and behavioral coping strategies. Patients use both constructive and tense defense mechanisms.Conclusion. It has been established that in patients with NIHL, in comparison with practically healthy persons, tension accumulates, and a tendency to psychotraumatization appears. However, it is currently difficult to determine whether NIHL is a predisposing factor for these psychological characteristics, so further research is needed to determine how significant this relationship is.
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Sun R, Shang W, Cao Y, Lan Y. A risk model and nomogram for high-frequency hearing loss in noise-exposed workers. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:747. [PMID: 33865357 PMCID: PMC8053268 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10730-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background High-frequency hearing loss is a significant occupational health concern in many countries, and early identification can be effective for preventing hearing loss. The study aims to construct and validate a risk model for HFHL, and develop a nomogram for predicting the individual risk in noise-exposed workers. Methods The current research used archival data from the National Key Occupational Diseases Survey-Sichuan conducted in China from 2014 to 2017. A total of 32,121 noise-exposed workers completed the survey, of whom 80% workers (n = 25,732) comprised the training cohort for risk model development and 20% workers (n = 6389) constituted the validation cohort for model validation. The risk model and nomogram were constructed using binary logistic models. The effectiveness and calibration of the model were evaluated with the receiver operating characteristic curve and calibration plots, respectively. Results A total of 10.06% of noise-exposed workers had HFHL. Age (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.083–1.104), male sex (OR = 3.25, 95% CI: 2.85–3.702), noise exposure duration (NED) (OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.093–1.201), and a history of working in manufacturing (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.314–1.713), construction (OR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.531–3.421), mining (OR = 2.63, 95% CI: 2.238–3.081), or for a private-owned enterprise (POE) (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.202–1.476) were associated with an increased risk of HFHL (P < 0.05). Conclusions The risk model and nomogram for HFHL can be used in application-oriented research on the prevention and management of HFHL in workplaces with high levels of noise exposure. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10730-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruican Sun
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Weiwei Shang
- Department of Occupational Health and Radial Control, Sichuan Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yingqiong Cao
- Department of Occupational Disease Prevention and Control, Pidu District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yajia Lan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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12
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Robinson T, Sussell A, Yeoman K, Retzer K, Poplin G. Health conditions in retired manual labor miners and oil and gas extraction workers: National Health Interview Survey, 2007-2017. Am J Ind Med 2021; 64:118-126. [PMID: 33107112 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Within the mining industrial sector, workers in the mining and oil and gas extraction (OGE) industries have demonstrated disparities in chronic health status compared with the general working population. However, we know much less about miner and OGE worker health once retired. This study separately compares chronic illnesses in retired miners and OGE workers with all other retirees. METHODS National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) public data were analyzed for the years 2007-2017 to estimate weighted unadjusted and adjusted prevalence of selected health conditions (cancer, cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory conditions, health status, and hearing loss) in retirees. Three retired worker groups (miners, OGE, and other retirees) were defined using the respondents' longest-held industry and occupation. RESULTS Higher prevalence of a number of adverse health conditions was noted in miners and OGE workers when compared with all other retirees. A significantly higher adjusted prevalence of hypertension, hearing loss, functionally limiting lung problems, and fair or poor health was seen in miners over other retirees. Retired OGE workers demonstrated a significantly higher adjusted prevalence of both hearing loss and poor health status. CONCLUSIONS Miners and OGE workers have higher morbidity during their working years, and this study demonstrates that poorer health appears to continue into retirement. These results suggest the need to expand occupational health and safety programs in the mining sector to improve the health of workers into retirement. Future studies that include more robust information on workplace exposures are needed to evaluate the long-term health of retired workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tashina Robinson
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Spokane Washington USA
| | - Aaron Sussell
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Spokane Washington USA
| | - Kristin Yeoman
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Spokane Washington USA
| | - Kyla Retzer
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Denver Colorado USA
| | - Gerald Poplin
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Spokane Washington USA
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13
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Ullman ED, Smith LM, McCullagh MC, Neitzel RL. Hearing loss as a predictor for hearing protection attenuation among miners. Occup Environ Med 2021; 78:oemed-2020-106838. [PMID: 33436381 PMCID: PMC9527647 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-106838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated risk factors for poor earplug fit, with a focus on the association between hearing loss and personal attenuation ratings (PARs). METHODS Earplug fit was assessed by obtaining PARs using a real ear at attenuation threshold (REAT) system. Hearing loss was assessed using the unoccluded hearing thresholds measured during the REAT testing and the results of a speech-in-noise test. Potential predictors of PARs were modelled using both simple and multiple linear regression. Hearing loss was the primary predictor of interest. RESULTS Data were collected from 200 workers at ten above-ground mining sites in the Midwestern USA. Workers reported wearing their hearing protection on average 73.9% of the time in a high noise environment (mean 8-hour time-weighted average noise exposure 85.5 dBA, range 65-103 dBA). One-quarter (26.7%) of workers were found to have a hearing loss (hearing threshold ≥25 dB across 1-4 kHz), and 42% reported symptoms of tinnitus. Workers with a hearing loss had a significantly lower PAR than those without a hearing loss (β=-5.1, SE=1.7). CONCLUSIONS The results of the adjusted regression models suggest that workers with hearing loss achieved significantly lower PARs than those without hearing loss. This association between hearing loss and hearing protection devices (HPD) fit brings into focus the potential benefit of fit checks to be included in hearing conservation programmes. Workers found to have hearing loss should be prioritised for fit testing, as their hearing impairment may be associated with poor HPD fit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elon D Ullman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lauren M Smith
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Marjorie C McCullagh
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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14
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Rigg KK, Rigg MS. Opioid-Induced Hearing Loss and Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: Clinical Considerations for Audiologists and Recommendations for Future Research. Am J Audiol 2020; 29:701-709. [PMID: 33115245 DOI: 10.1044/2020_aja-20-00054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Over the last two decades, the number of Americans misusing opioids has reached epidemic levels. With such drastic increases in opioid misuse, audiologists are more likely to have patients with opioid-induced hearing loss or neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) than in previous years. More attention is needed on how these increases might influence clinical practice and such a discussion could be useful for audiologists. The goal of this article, therefore, is to summarize what is currently known regarding the relationship between opioid misuse and audiology to help guide hearing health care providers (with a particular focus on opioid-induced hearing loss and NAS). This article (a) summarizes the overlap in opioid misuse and hearing loss populations, (b) describes the evidence linking opioid misuse to hearing loss, (c) discusses clinical implications that opioid-induced hearing loss and NAS have for practicing audiologists, and (d) recommends directions for future audiological research on opioid-induced hearing loss and NAS. Conclusions There is considerable overlap between populations at-risk for hearing loss and opioid misuse. Additionally, compelling evidence exists linking opioid misuse to hearing loss, but the specific causal mechanisms remain unclear, indicating a need for additional research. This article attempts to fill a gap in the audiological literature and has the potential to serve as a guide for hearing health care providers to make more informed clinical decisions regarding patients with opioid-induced hearing loss and NAS. Clinicians may wish to consider the concerns raised in this article before intervening with such concerns, especially in the absence of best practice protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K. Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law and Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Malika S. Rigg
- Department of Audiology, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL
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15
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Chen KH, Su SB, Chen KT. An overview of occupational noise-induced hearing loss among workers: epidemiology, pathogenesis, and preventive measures. Environ Health Prev Med 2020; 25:65. [PMID: 33129267 PMCID: PMC7603754 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-020-00906-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) is the most prevalent occupational disease in the world. The goal of this study was to review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and preventive measures of ONIHL among workers and provide evidence for the implementation of control measures. Literature studies were identified from the MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using the search terms “noise-induced hearing loss” “prevalence”, “pathogenesis”, and “preventive measures”. The articles reviewed in this report were limited from 2000 to 2020. Articles that were not published in the English language, manuscripts without an abstract, and opinion articles were excluded. After a preliminary screening, all of the articles were reviewed and synthesized to provide an overview of the current status of ONIHL among workers. The mechanism of ONIHL among workers is a complex interaction between environmental and host factors (both genetic and acquired factors). The outcomes of noise exposure are different among individual subjects. Clinical trials are currently underway to evaluate the treatment effect of antioxidants on ONIHL. Noise exposure may contribute to temporary or permanent threshold shifts; however, even temporary threshold shifts may predispose an individual to eventual permanent hearing loss. Noise prevention programs are an important preventive measure in reducing the morbidity of ONIHL among workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kou-Huang Chen
- School of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Sanming University, Sanming, 365, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shih-Bin Su
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, 710, Taiwan
| | - Kow-Tong Chen
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Tainan Municipal Hospital (managed by Show Chwan Medical Care Corporation), No. 670, Chongde Road, East District, Tainan, 701, Taiwan. .,Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan.
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Themann CL, Masterson EA. Occupational noise exposure: A review of its effects, epidemiology, and impact with recommendations for reducing its burden. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2019; 146:3879. [PMID: 31795665 DOI: 10.1121/1.5134465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to hazardous noise is one of the most common occupational risks, both in the U.S. and worldwide. Repeated overexposure to noise at or above 85 dBA can cause permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, and difficulty understanding speech in noise. It is also associated with cardiovascular disease, depression, balance problems, and lower income. About 22 million U.S. workers are currently exposed to hazardous occupational noise. Approximately 33% of working-age adults with a history of occupational noise exposure have audiometric evidence of noise-induced hearing damage, and 16% of noise-exposed workers have material hearing impairment. While the Mining, Construction, and Manufacturing sectors typically have the highest prevalence of noise exposure and hearing loss, there are noise-exposed workers in every sector and every sector has workers with hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable. Increased understanding of the biological processes underlying noise damage may lead to protective pharmacologic or genetic therapies. For now, an integrated public health approach that (1) emphasizes noise control over reliance on hearing protection, (2) illustrates the full impact of hearing loss on quality of life, and (3) challenges the cultural acceptance of loud noise can substantially reduce the impact of noise on worker health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christa L Themann
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1090 Tusculum Avenue, MS C-27, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Masterson
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1090 Tusculum Avenue, MS C-27, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226, USA
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