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Wuellner S, Turner K, Spector JT. Emergency department visits for heat-related illness among workers: Occupational health surveillance using Washington syndromic surveillance data. Am J Ind Med 2024. [PMID: 39221707 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information on worker occupation and industry is critical to understanding the occupational risks of heat-related illness (HRI), yet few syndromic surveillance systems capture these key data elements. This study evaluates the work data reported through Washington syndromic surveillance for its utility in characterizing HRI ED visits by industry and occupation. METHODS Standard industry and occupation codes were assigned to employer name and occupation descriptions reported in Washington ED visit records maintained within the state's syndromic surveillance system, for visits involving HRI in 2020-2022. HRI ED visits involving workplace heat exposure were identified based on discharge diagnoses or on keywords in the triage note or chief complaint fields. HRI ED visits were summarized by patient characteristics, and visit rates were calculated by industry and occupation. RESULTS Employer name or occupation descriptions were reported in 21.5% of HRI ED records among patients age 16 and older, and in 41.2% of records with mention of heat exposure at work. Twice as many records were classified for industry as for occupation. Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting and transportation and warehousing had the highest rates of HRI ED visits. Specific industries with the highest rates included support activities for agriculture and forestry, the postal service, and fruit and vegetable preserving and specialty food manufacturing. CONCLUSION Syndromic surveillance data are a valuable source of occupational health surveillance information when work characteristics are reported, enhancing our understanding of the occupational risks of injuries and illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Wuellner
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, SHARP Program, Olympia, Washington, USA
| | - Kali Turner
- Washington State Department of Health, RHINO Program, Olympia, Washington, USA
| | - June T Spector
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, SHARP Program, Olympia, Washington, USA
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2
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Gibb K, Beckman S, Vergara XP, Heinzerling A, Harrison R. Extreme Heat and Occupational Health Risks. Annu Rev Public Health 2024; 45:315-335. [PMID: 38166501 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-publhealth-060222-034715] [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: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Climate change poses a significant occupational health hazard. Rising temperatures and more frequent heat waves are expected to cause increasing heat-related morbidity and mortality for workers across the globe. Agricultural, construction, military, firefighting, mining, and manufacturing workers are at particularly high risk for heat-related illness (HRI). Various factors, including ambient temperatures, personal protective equipment, work arrangements, physical exertion, and work with heavy equipment may put workers at higher risk for HRI. While extreme heat will impact workers across the world, workers in low- and middle-income countries will be disproportionately affected. Tracking occupational HRI will be critical to informing prevention and mitigation strategies. Renewed investment in these strategies, including workplace heat prevention programs and regulatory standards for indoor and outdoor workers, will be needed. Additional research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions in order to successfully reduce the risk of HRI in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Gibb
- Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA;
| | - Stella Beckman
- Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA;
| | | | - Amy Heinzerling
- Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA;
| | - Robert Harrison
- Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA;
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3
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Tran NQL, Nguyen TTV, Chu C, Phung H, Nghiem S, Phung D. Ambient Temperature Effects on Hospitalization Risk Among Farmers: A Time-Series Study on Multiple Diseases in Vietnam. J Occup Environ Med 2024; 66:321-328. [PMID: 38234216 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000003048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to assess the effect of high temperatures on hospitalization for all causes and heat-sensitive diseases among Vietnamese farmers. METHODS The Poisson generalized linear model and distributed lag nonlinear model were used to investigate the temperature-hospitalization association for all causes and seven cause-specific disease groups. RESULTS Every 1°C increase in daily mean temperature above the threshold increased the estimated relative risk (95% CI) of all-cause hospitalization by 1.022 (0.998-1.047) at the country level, 1.047 (1.007-1.089) in the south, and 0.982 (0.958-1.006) in the north. Infectious disease hospitalization was most affected by high temperatures (1.098 [1.057-1.140]). High temperatures significantly increased the risk of all-cause hospitalization for farmers 60 years and younger in three of the six provinces. CONCLUSIONS The findings emphasized the need for health promotion programs to prevent heat-related health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nu Quy Linh Tran
- From the Center for Environment and Population Health, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia (N.Q.L.T., C.C., H.P.); Graduate School of Public Health, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita, Japan (N.T.T.V.); Research School of Economics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia (S.N.); and School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia (D.P.)
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Wuellner S, Levenson C. Occupation and Industry Data Quality Among Select Notifiable Conditions in Washington State. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2024; 30:36-45. [PMID: 37831627 PMCID: PMC10664784 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001807] [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] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Occupation and industry are basic data elements that, when collected during public health investigations, can be key to understanding patterns of disease transmission and developing effective prevention measures. OBJECTIVE To assess the completeness and quality of occupation and industry data among select notifiable conditions in Washington and discuss potential improvements to current data collection efforts. DESIGN We evaluated occupation and industry data, collected by local health departments during routine case investigations, for 11 notifiable conditions, selected for inclusion based on an established or plausible link to occupational exposure. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Confirmed cases of select notifiable conditions among Washington residents aged 16 to 64 years, for years 2019-2021. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We calculated the percentage of cases among working-age adults reported as employed, the percentage with occupation and industry data collected, and the percentage assigned standard occupation and industry codes. We identified the most common responses for occupation and industry and challenges of assigning codes to those responses. RESULTS Among the 11 conditions evaluated, one-third of cases aged 16 to 64 years were reported as employed. Among the cases reported as employed, 91.5% reported occupation data and 30.5% reported industry data. "Self-employed" was among the top responses for occupation, a response that does not describe a specific job and could not be assigned an occupation code. In the absence of additional information, 4 of the most common responses for industry could not be coded: "health care," "technology," "tech," and "food." CONCLUSION Routine collection of informative occupation and industry data among working-age adults is largely absent from case investigations in Washington. Methods of data collection that improve quality while minimizing the burden of collection should be pursued. Suggestions for improving data quality are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Wuellner
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, Olympia, Washington (Dr Wuellner); and Office of Communicable Disease Epidemiology, Washington State Department of Health, Olympia, Washington (Ms Levenson)
| | - Cheri Levenson
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, Olympia, Washington (Dr Wuellner); and Office of Communicable Disease Epidemiology, Washington State Department of Health, Olympia, Washington (Ms Levenson)
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5
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Crowe J, Knechtle B, Rojas-Valverde D. Editorial: Acute and long-term health issues of occupational exposure to heat and high physical loads. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1304229. [PMID: 37885798 PMCID: PMC10599243 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1304229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Crowe
- Central American Institute for Studies on Toxic Substances (IRET), Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute for Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Rojas-Valverde
- Centro de Investigación y Diagnóstico en Salud y Deporte (CIDISAD-NARS), Escuela Ciencias del Movimiento Humano y Calidad de Vida, Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, Heredia, Costa Rica
- Sport Injury Clinic, Escuela Ciencias del Movimiento Humano y Calidad de Vida, Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, Heredia, Costa Rica
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Smirnova N, Shaver AC, Mehta AJ, Philipsborn R, Scovronick N. Climate Change, Air Quality, and Pulmonary Health Disparities. Clin Chest Med 2023; 44:489-499. [PMID: 37517829 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccm.2023.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Climate change will alter environmental risks that influence pulmonary health, including heat, air pollution, and pollen. These exposures disproportionately burden populations already at risk of ill health, including those at vulnerable life stages, with low socioeconomic status, and systematically targeted by oppressive policies. Climate change can exacerbate existing environmental injustices by affecting future exposure, as well as through differentials in the ability to adapt; this is compounded by disparities in rates of underlying disease and access to health care. Climate change is therefore a dire threat not only to individual and population health but also to health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Smirnova
- Division of Pulmonary, Department of Medicine, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 100 Woodruff Circle, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Adam C Shaver
- Division of Pulmonary, Department of Medicine, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 100 Woodruff Circle, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ashish J Mehta
- Division of Pulmonary, Department of Medicine, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 100 Woodruff Circle, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Rebecca Philipsborn
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Jr Dr Southeast, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA; Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Noah Scovronick
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Debela MB, Begosaw AM, Deyessa N, Azage M. The Burdens of Occupational Heat Exposure-related Symptoms and Contributing Factors Among Workers in Sugarcane Factories in Ethiopia: Heat Stress Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Meter. Saf Health Work 2023; 14:325-331. [PMID: 37822459 PMCID: PMC10562153 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2023.08.003] [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] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Heat stress is a harmful physical hazard in many occupational settings. However, consequences of occupational heat exposure among workers in a sugarcane factory in Ethiopia are not well characterized. This study aimed to assess the level of occupational heat exposure-related symptoms and contributing factors. Methods In this cross-sectional study, five workstations were selected for temperature measurement. Heat stress levels were measured using a wet-bulb globe temperature index meter. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 1,524 participants. Heat-related symptoms were assessed using validated questionnaires. Results The level of occupational heat exposure was 72.4% (95% CI: 70.2%-74.8%), while 71.6% (95% CI: 69.3%-74.9%) of participants experienced at least one symptom related to heat stress. The most common heat-related symptoms were swelling of hands and feet (78%), severe thirst (77.8%) and dry mouth (77.4%). The identified risk factors were a lack of reflective shields (AOR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.53, 3.17), not-enclosed extreme heat sources (AOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.23, 2.51), a lack of access to shade (AOR: 9.62, 95% CI: 6.20, 14.92), and inappropriate protective clothing provision (AOR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.27, 2.71). Conclusions The burden of occupational heat exposure and heat-induced symptoms was high. Lack of reflective shields, the absence of enclosed extreme heat sources, a lack of access to shade, and inappropriate protective clothing provision were considerable attributes of heat stress. Therefore, the use of mechanical solutions to stop heat emissions at their sources and the key factors identified were areas for future intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitiku B. Debela
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia
| | - Achenef M. Begosaw
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia
| | - Negussie Deyessa
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Schools of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis-Ababa University, Ethiopia
| | - Muluken Azage
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia
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8
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Langer CE, Armitage TL, Beckman S, Tancredi DJ, Mitchell DC, Schenker MB. How Does Environmental Temperature Affect Farmworkers' Work Rates in the California Heat Illness Prevention Study? J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:e458-e464. [PMID: 37026741 PMCID: PMC10332655 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002853] [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] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Estimate the association between environmental temperature (wet bulb globe temperature [WBGT]) and work rate over the course of a workday. METHODS Repeated-measures regression was used to identify characteristics impacting work rate in a cross-sectional study of Latino farmworkers. Minute-by-minute work rate (measured by accelerometer) and WBGT were averaged over 15-minute intervals. RESULTS Work rate decreased by 4.34 (95% confidence interval [CI], -7.09 to -1.59) counts per minute per degree Celsius WBGT in the previous 15-minute interval. Cumulative quarter hours worked (2.13; 95% CI, 0.82 to 3.45), age (-3.64; 95% CI, -4.50 to -2.79), and dehydration at the end of workday (51.37; 95% CI, 19.24 to 83.50) were associated with counts per minute as were gender, pay type (piece rate vs hourly) and body mass index ≥25 kg/m 2 . The effects of pay type and body mass index were modified by gender. CONCLUSION Increased temperature was associated with a decrease in work rate.
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9
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Brearley M, Berry R, Hunt AP, Pope R. A Systematic Review of Post-Work Core Temperature Cooling Rates Conferred by Passive Rest. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12050695. [PMID: 37237510 DOI: 10.3390/biology12050695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Physical work increases energy expenditure, requiring a considerable elevation of metabolic rate, which causes body heat production that can cause heat stress, heat strain, and hyperthermia in the absence of adequate cooling. Given that passive rest is often used for cooling, a systematic search of literature databases was conducted to identify studies that reported post-work core temperature cooling rates conferred by passive rest, across a range of environmental conditions. Data regarding cooling rates and environmental conditions were extracted, and the validity of key measures was assessed for each study. Forty-four eligible studies were included, providing 50 datasets. Eight datasets indicated a stable or rising core temperature in participants (range 0.000 to +0.028 °C min-1), and forty-two datasets reported reducing core temperature (-0.002 to -0.070 °C min-1) during passive rest, across a range of Wet-Bulb Globe Temperatures (WBGT). For 13 datasets where occupational or similarly insulative clothing was worn, passive rest resulted in a mean core temperature decrease of -0.004 °C min-1 (-0.032 to +0.013 °C min-1). These findings indicate passive rest does not reverse the elevated core temperatures of heat-exposed workers in a timely manner. Climate projections of higher WBGT are anticipated to further marginalise the passive rest cooling rates of heat-exposed workers, particularly when undertaken in occupational attire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt Brearley
- Thermal Hyperformance, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655, Australia
- National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre, Darwin, NT 0800, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Exercise & Sports Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Albury, NSW 2640, Australia
| | - Rachel Berry
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Andrew P Hunt
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Rodney Pope
- School of Allied Health, Exercise & Sports Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Albury, NSW 2640, Australia
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4229, Australia
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10
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Remy LL, Kaseff L, Shiau R, Clay M. Industry and occupation in California birth certificates (1998-2019): Reporting disparities and classification codability. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:213-221. [PMID: 36645259 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Missing and noncodable parental industry and occupation (I/O) information on birth certificates (BCs) can bias analyses informing parental worksite exposures and family economic stability. METHODS We used the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) software to code parental I/O in 1989-2019 California BC data (N = 21,739,406). We assessed I/O missingness and codability by reporting period, parental sex, race/ethnicity, age, and education. RESULTS During 1989-2019, records missing I/O increased from 4.4% to 9.4%. I/O was missing more frequently from parents who were male (7.8% vs. 4.4%), Black or American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) (9.3% and 8.9% vs. 3.2%-4.7% in others), and had high school or less education (4.0%-5.9% vs. 1.4%-2.6% in others). Of records with I/O, less than 2% were noncodable by NIOSH software. Noncodable entries were more common for parents who were male (industry (1.9% vs. 1.0%); occupation (1.5% vs. 0.7%)), Asian/Pacific Islander (industry (2.4% vs. 1.2%-1.6% in other groups); occupation (1.7% vs. 0.7%-1.5% in other groups)), age 40 and older (industry (2.1% vs. 0.4%-1.7% in younger groups); occupation (1.7% vs. 0.3%-1.3% in younger groups)), and 4-year college graduates (industry (2.0% vs. 1.0%-1.9% in other groups); occupation (1.7% vs. 0.5%-1.4%)). CONCLUSIONS In California BC, I/O missingness was systematically higher among parents who are male, Black, AIAN, less than 20 years old, and report no college education. I/O codability is high when information is reported, with small percentage disparities. Improving data collection is vital to equitably describe economic contexts that determine important family outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda L Remy
- Family Health Outcomes Project (FHOP), Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Louise Kaseff
- Family Health Outcomes Project (FHOP), Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Rita Shiau
- Family Health Outcomes Project (FHOP), Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Michael Clay
- Family Health Outcomes Project (FHOP), Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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11
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Di Blasi C, Marinaccio A, Gariazzo C, Taiano L, Bonafede M, Leva A, Morabito M, Michelozzi P, de’ Donato FK. Effects of Temperatures and Heatwaves on Occupational Injuries in the Agricultural Sector in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2781. [PMID: 36833478 PMCID: PMC9957348 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The effects of heat on health have been well documented, while less is known about the effects among agricultural workers. Our aim is to estimate the effects and impacts of heat on occupational injuries in the agricultural sector in Italy. Occupational injuries in the agricultural sector from the Italian national workers' compensation authority (INAIL) and daily mean air temperatures from Copernicus ERA5-land for a five-year period (2014-2018) were considered. Distributed lag non-linear models (DLNM) were used to estimate the relative risk and attributable injuries for increases in daily mean air temperatures between the 75th and 99th percentile and during heatwaves. Analyses were stratified by age, professional qualification, and severity of injury. A total of 150,422 agricultural injuries were considered and the overall relative risk of injury for exposure to high temperatures was 1.13 (95% CI: 1.08; 1.18). A higher risk was observed among younger workers (15-34 years) (1.23 95% CI: 1.14; 1.34) and occasional workers (1.25 95% CI: 1.03; 1.52). A total of 2050 heat-attributable injuries were estimated in the study period. Workers engaged in outdoor and labour-intensive activities in the agricultural sector are at greater risk of injury and these results can help target prevention actions for climate change adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Di Blasi
- Department of Epidemiology Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL ROMA 1, 00147 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Marinaccio
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene Department, Italian Workers’ Compensation Authority (INAIL), 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Gariazzo
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene Department, Italian Workers’ Compensation Authority (INAIL), 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Taiano
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene Department, Italian Workers’ Compensation Authority (INAIL), 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Bonafede
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene Department, Italian Workers’ Compensation Authority (INAIL), 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Leva
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene Department, Italian Workers’ Compensation Authority (INAIL), 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Morabito
- Institute of Bioeconomy, National Research Council (IBE-CNR), 50019 Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Michelozzi
- Department of Epidemiology Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL ROMA 1, 00147 Rome, Italy
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12
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Pinkerton LE, Bertke S, Dahm MM, Kubale TL, Siegel MR, Hales TR, Yiin JH, Purdue MP, Beaumont JJ, Daniels RD. End-stage renal disease incidence in a cohort of US firefighters from San Francisco, Chicago, and Philadelphia. Am J Ind Med 2022; 65:975-984. [PMID: 36268894 PMCID: PMC9828160 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Firefighters perform strenuous work in hot environments, which may increase their risk of chronic kidney disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and types of ESRD among a cohort of US firefighters compared to the US general population, and to examine exposure-response relationships. METHODS ESRD from 1977 through 2014 was identified through linkage with Medicare data. ESRD incidence in the cohort compared to the US population was evaluated using life table analyses. Associations of all ESRD, systemic ESRD, hypertensive ESRD, and diabetic ESRD with exposure surrogates (exposed days, fire runs, and fire hours) were examined in Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for attained age (the time scale), race, birth date, fire department, and employment duration. RESULTS The incidence of all ESRD was less than expected (standardized incidence ratio (SIR) = 0.79; 95% confidence interval = 0.69-0.89, observed = 247). SIRs for ESRD types were not significantly increased. Positive associations of all ESRD, systemic ESRD, and hypertensive ESRD with exposed days were observed: however, 95% confidence intervals included one. CONCLUSIONS We found little evidence of increased risk of ESRD among this cohort of firefighters. Limitations included the inability to evaluate exposure-response relationships for some ESRD types due to small observed numbers, the limitations of the surrogates of exposure, and the lack of information on more sensitive outcome measures for potential kidney effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynne E. Pinkerton
- MaximusMcLeanVirginiaUSA
- Division of Field Studies and EngineeringNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Stephen Bertke
- Division of Field Studies and EngineeringNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Matthew M. Dahm
- Division of Field Studies and EngineeringNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Travis L. Kubale
- World Trade Center Health ProgramNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Miriam R. Siegel
- Division of Field Studies and EngineeringNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Thomas R. Hales
- Division of Safety ResearchNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | - James H. Yiin
- Office of Extramural ProgramsNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Mark P. Purdue
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and GeneticsNational Cancer InstituteRockvilleMarylandUSA
| | - James J. Beaumont
- Department of Public Health SciencesUniversity of California DavisDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Robert D. Daniels
- World Trade Center Health ProgramNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
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13
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Tran NQL, Nghiem S, Chu C, Luong MA, Ho TT, Phung D. The Prevalence of Heat-related Illnesses and Associated Factors among Rice Farmers in Vietnam. J Agromedicine 2022; 28:486-496. [DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2022.2154086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nu Quy Linh Tran
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- General Planning Department, Ha Tinh Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Ha Tinh, Vietnam
| | - Son Nghiem
- College of Health & Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Cordia Chu
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mai Anh Luong
- Health Environmental Management Agency, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thi Tu Ho
- General Planning Department, Ha Tinh Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Ha Tinh, Vietnam
| | - Dung Phung
- School of Public Health, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Vietnam
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Yan T, Ji F, Bi M, Wang H, Cui X, Liu B, Niu D, Li L, Lan T, Xie T, Wu J, Li J, Ding X. Occupational stress and associated risk factors among 13,867 industrial workers in China. Front Public Health 2022; 10:945902. [PMID: 36466474 PMCID: PMC9714303 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.945902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Occupational stress is a critical global public health problem. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of occupational stress among the workers in the electricity, heat, gas, water production and supply (EHGWPS), manufacturing, and transportation industries in Beijing, China. We explored the demographic differences in occupational stress status among workers in industrial enterprises. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 13,867 workers. The self-administered New Brief Job Stress Questionnaire was used to evaluate high occupational stress status, which includes four sub-dimensions (job stressors, stress response, social support, job stressors & social support). Multiple regression and logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between high occupational stress and the four occupational stress sub-dimensions with risk factors. Results A total of 13,867 workers were included. The prevalence of high occupational stress was 3.3% in the EHGWPS industries, 10.3% in manufacturing, and 5.8% in transportation. The prevalence of high occupational stress was higher than in the other two categories (p < 0.05) in manufacturing industries. Logistic regression analysis showed that male workers with lower educational status, more job experience, and working in manufacturing were vulnerable to high occupational stress. Further analysis of the four occupational stress sub-dimensions showed that male workers, older adult workers, workers with lower educational levels, and longer working time were associated with higher scores in job stressors, stress response, social support, and job stress & social support (all p < 0.05). Moreover, divorced or widowed workers had higher occupational stress scores. Conclusion Male workers with lower educational levels and longer working time may have an increased risk of occupational stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tenglong Yan
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Ji
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Mingli Bi
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Huining Wang
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Xueting Cui
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Baolong Liu
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Dongsheng Niu
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Leilei Li
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Tian Lan
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Xie
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Canvard College, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, China
| | - Jue Li
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaowen Ding
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Xiaowen Ding
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15
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Flunker JC, Zuidema C, Jung J, Kasner E, Cohen M, Seto E, Austin E, Spector JT. Potential Impacts of Different Occupational Outdoor Heat Exposure Thresholds among Washington State Crop and Construction Workers and Implications for Other Jurisdictions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11583. [PMID: 36141863 PMCID: PMC9517246 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Occupational heat exposure is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality among outdoor workers. We sought to descriptively evaluate spatiotemporal variability in heat threshold exceedances and describe potential impacts of these exposures for crop and construction workers. We also present general considerations for approaching heat policy-relevant analyses. We analyzed county-level 2011-2020 monthly employment (Bureau of Labor Statistics Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages) and environmental exposure (Parameter-elevation Relationships on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM)) data for Washington State (WA), USA, crop (North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) 111 and 1151) and construction (NAICS 23) sectors. Days exceeding maximum daily temperature thresholds, averaged per county, were linked with employment estimates to generate employment days of exceedances. We found spatiotemporal variability in WA temperature threshold exceedances and crop and construction employment. Maximum temperature exceedances peaked in July and August and were most numerous in Central WA counties. Counties with high employment and/or high numbers of threshold exceedance days, led by Yakima and King Counties, experienced the greatest total employment days of exceedances. Crop employment contributed to the largest proportion of total state-wide employment days of exceedances with Central WA counties experiencing the greatest potential workforce burden of exposure. Considerations from this analysis can help inform decision-making regarding thresholds, timing of provisions for heat rules, and tailoring of best practices in different industries and areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C. Flunker
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Christopher Zuidema
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jihoon Jung
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Edward Kasner
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Martin Cohen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Edmund Seto
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Elena Austin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - June T. Spector
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Safety & Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA 98504, USA
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16
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Pray IW, Grajewski B, Morris C, Modji K, DeJonge P, McCoy K, Tomasallo C, DeSalvo T, Westergaard RP, Meiman J. Measuring Work-related Risk of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Comparison of COVID-19 Incidence by Occupation and Industry-Wisconsin, September 2020 to May 2021. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 76:e163-e171. [PMID: 35924351 PMCID: PMC9384654 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Work-related exposures play an important role in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission, yet few studies have compared SARS-CoV-2 expsoure risk across occupations and industries. METHODS During September 2020 to May 2021, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services collected occupation and industry data as part of routine coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case investigations. Adults aged 18-64 years with confirmed or probable COVID-19 in Wisconsin were assigned standardized occupation and industry codes. Cumulative incidence rates were weighted for non-response and calculated using full-time equivalent (FTE) workforce denominators from the 2020 American Community Survey. RESULTS An estimated 11.6% of workers (347 013 of 2.98 million) in Wisconsin, ages 18-64 years, had COVID-19 from September 2020 to May 2021. The highest incidence by occupation (per 100 FTE) occurred among personal care and services workers (22.1), healthcare practitioners and support staff (20.7), and protective services workers (20.7). High-risk sub-groups included nursing assistants and personal care aides (28.8), childcare workers (25.8), food and beverage service workers (25.3), personal appearance workers (24.4), and law enforcement workers (24.1). By industry, incidence was highest in healthcare (18.6); the highest risk sub-sectors were nursing care facilities (30.5) and warehousing (28.5). CONCLUSIONS This analysis represents one of the most complete examinations to date of COVID-19 incidence by occupation and industry. Our approach demonstrates the value of standardized occupational data collection by public health and may be a model for improved occupational surveillance elsewhere. Workers at higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 exposure may benefit from targeted workplace COVID-19 vaccination and mitigation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian W Pray
- Corresponding author: Ian Pray, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Wisconsin Department of Health Services, 1 W. Wilson St, Madison, WI 53703 ()
| | | | - Collin Morris
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, Wisconsin,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Komi Modji
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, Wisconsin,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Peter DeJonge
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, Wisconsin,Epidemic Intelligence Service, CDC
| | - Katherine McCoy
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, Wisconsin,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Carrie Tomasallo
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, Wisconsin,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Traci DeSalvo
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Ryan P Westergaard
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, Wisconsin,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jonathan Meiman
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, Wisconsin,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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17
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Egbert J, Krenz J, Sampson PD, Jung J, Calkins M, Zhang K, Palmández P, Faestel P, Spector JT. Accuracy of an estimated core temperature algorithm for agricultural workers. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2022; 77:809-818. [PMID: 35114899 PMCID: PMC9346099 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2022.2033672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There is a substantial burden of occupational health effects from heat exposure. We sought to assess the accuracy of estimated core body temperature (CBTest) derived from an algorithm that uses sequential heart rate and initializing CBT,1 compared with gastrointestinal temperature measured using more invasive ingestible sensors (CBTgi), among outdoor agricultural workers. We analyzed CBTest and CBTgi data from Washington State, USA, pear and apple harvesters collected across one work shift in 2015 (13,413 observations, 35 participants) using Bland Altman methods. The mean (standard deviation, range) CBTgi was 37.7 (0.4, 36.5-39.4)°C. Overall CBT bias (limits of agreement) was -0.14 (±0.76)°C. Biases ranged from -0.006 to -0.75 °C. The algorithm, which does not require the use of ingestible sensors, may be a practical tool in research among groups of workers for evaluating the effectiveness of interventions to prevent adverse occupational heat health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared Egbert
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jennifer Krenz
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Paul D. Sampson
- Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jihoon Jung
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Miriam Calkins
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering - Field Research Branch, National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Pablo Palmández
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Paul Faestel
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, USA
| | - June T. Spector
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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18
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Increased labor losses and decreased adaptation potential in a warmer world. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7286. [PMID: 34907184 PMCID: PMC8671389 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27328-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Working in hot and potentially humid conditions creates health and well-being risks that will increase as the planet warms. It has been proposed that workers could adapt to increasing temperatures by moving labor from midday to cooler hours. Here, we use reanalysis data to show that in the current climate approximately 30% of global heavy labor losses in the workday could be recovered by moving labor from the hottest hours of the day. However, we show that this particular workshift adaptation potential is lost at a rate of about 2% per degree of global warming as early morning heat exposure rises to unsafe levels for continuous work, with worker productivity losses accelerating under higher warming levels. These findings emphasize the importance of finding alternative adaptation mechanisms to keep workers safe, as well as the importance of limiting global warming. Outdoor workers may need to adapt to warming by moving labor from midday to cooler hours. Here the authors find this adaptation strategy loses efficacy under additional climate change due to increased heat exposure in the coolest hours of the day.
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