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Kaboth A, Hünefeld L, Lück M. Exploring work ability, psychosocial job demands and resources of employees in low-skilled jobs: a German cross-sectional study. J Occup Med Toxicol 2024; 19:30. [PMID: 39075549 PMCID: PMC11285431 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-024-00429-2] [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: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extending working lives due to labour market and pension regulations makes maintaining and promoting work ability necessary. The coronavirus pandemic has shown that employees in low-skilled jobs (no qualification required) contribute significantly to society and the economy. Research on these employees has been neglected in Germany for many decades despite demanding working conditions. Therefore, we investigate the relationship between low-skilled jobs and work ability. Moreover, we explore this relationship's variation by psychosocial work demands and resources. METHODS We use two waves of the German Study on Mental Health at Work (S-MGA). We calculate Ordinary-Least-Squares (OLS) regression models with pooled data (n = 6,050) to analyse the relationship between job requirement level and work ability. We also explore the contribution of job demands and resources on this relationship with interaction models. We use the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ), to assess psychosocial work demands and resources. RESULTS Employees performing low-skilled jobs report significantly less work ability than those in medium- or high-skilled jobs. Interaction models show significantly greater work ability for employees in medium- and high-skilled jobs with high influence on their work (amount or tasks). Unexpectedly, employees in low-skilled jobs have lower work ability with more influence on their work. Furthermore, high role clarity, describing responsibility, authority and work goals, is associated with lower levels of work ability among employees in low-skilled jobs. CONCLUSIONS The moderating effect of role clarity on the work ability of employees in low-skilled jobs can possibly be attributed to skills mismatch and limited responsibility, as well as a lack of self-perceived collective purpose of the job. The moderation of the influence on work dimension supports results of previous studies. Too much job autonomy can have negative effects under certain circumstances and is therefore perceived as a job demand in some studies. Consequently, mechanisms concerning psychosocial work demands and resources must be investigated in further studies with different theoretical approaches. The imbalance of job demands and resources shows that employers should invest in preserving the work ability to prevent early exit from the labour market in an aging society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Kaboth
- Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Friedrich-Henkel-Weg 1-25, 44149, Dortmund, Germany.
| | - Lena Hünefeld
- Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Friedrich-Henkel-Weg 1-25, 44149, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Marcel Lück
- Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Friedrich-Henkel-Weg 1-25, 44149, Dortmund, Germany
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Henning G, Arriagada C, Karnick N. Retirement and Volunteering in Germany - Historical Changes and Social Inequalities. Res Aging 2024; 46:15-28. [PMID: 37066989 DOI: 10.1177/01640275231170798] [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: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
The first years of retirement have often been seen as a typical time window to take up (or intensify) voluntary work. Due to the changing context of retirement and historical differences in resources, the role of retirement for volunteering may have changed with historical time. We compared individuals aged 60-70 in five cross-sectional waves (1999, 2004, 2009, 2014, 2019) of the German Survey on Volunteering (Deutscher Freiwilligensurvey: FWS) to investigate how the association of retirement status and volunteering has changed. We found a negative association of retirement and volunteering, which was not significant once controlling for age, education, gender and region. While engagement levels seem to have increased with historical time, voluntary work seems to have become less time consuming. There were no historical differences in the association of retirement and volunteering. Our results highlight the role of historical time and contextual factors when investigating volunteering and post-retirement activities.
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de Lucca SR, El Kadri Filho F, Maeda P. Psychosocial factors, musculoskeletal symptoms, and presenteeism among labor judges. Rev Bras Med Trab 2023; 21:e2022879. [PMID: 38313090 PMCID: PMC10835388 DOI: 10.47626/1679-4435-2022-879] [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: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Labor judges are subjected to productivity goals associated with a workload that does not take into consideration the complexity of their work. Objectives To evaluate the relationship between psychosocial factors, musculoskeletal problems, and presenteeism among labor judges. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 151 judges who answered a sociodemographic and occupational characterization questionnaire and the Brazilian versions of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, Health and Safety Executive - Indicator Tool, and Stanford Presenteeism Scale. The results underwent a descriptive analysis and Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated. Results The psychosocial dimension of demands presented a higher risk of occupational stress, while role had a lower risk. Musculoskeletal problems in the neck, upper back, shoulders, and lower back were more common and affected almost 70% of the participants. Presenteeism was more affected by the avoiding distractions dimension. Almost all psychosocial dimensions had a significant correlation with musculoskeletal symptoms (p < 0.05), especially demands, which also was correlated with total presenteeism and the avoiding distractions dimension. Conclusions The work overload observed among labor judges was related to the occurrence of musculoskeletal problems and to a high prevalence of presenteeism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sérgio Roberto de Lucca
- Departamento de Saúde Coletiva, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Fauzi El Kadri Filho
- Departamento de Saúde Coletiva, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Maeda
- Faculdade de Direito, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Hosseininejad M, Javadifar S, Mohammadi S, Mirzamohammadi E. Assessment of the relationship between the return to work and the severity of work-related upper limb injuries using the whole person impairment. Chin J Traumatol 2023; 26:77-82. [PMID: 36526509 PMCID: PMC10071318 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjtee.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Upper limb disorders are one of the most common and important types of occupational injuries. Besides, identifying the factors influencing return to work following these injuries is essential to reduce the dimensions of the problem. In this study, we investigated the return to work and associated factors following occupational injuries leading to upper limb impairment. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, the rate of return to work and associated factors were assessed in 256 workers with work-related upper limb injury referred to a teaching hospital from March 2011 to December 2018. The inclusion criterion was a history of occupational injury resulting in upper limb impairment, and exclusion criteria included the presence of simultaneous impairment in other organs, congenital or non-occupational limb defects as well as patients with incomplete information in their medical records. Individuals' records, including age at the time of injury, gender, date of injury, marital status, education, level of amputation and injury, whole person impairment (WPI) and physiotherapy (prescribed by the physician) were reviewed. The WPI was calculated to assess the extent of the injury. All analyzes were performed by SPSS version 25.0. RESULT The rate of return to work was 54.3%, in which 51.8% for the same job and 48.2% for a new job. The main factors associated with non-return to work were more days off work (p = 0.001), higher injury severity (p = 0.001), and dominant hand injury (p = 0.034). CONCLUSION The number of days off work, the WPI, and dominant hand injury are the most important determinant in returning to work. In addition, increased job satisfaction and support from co-workers and employers are work-related factors that can lead to an increased return to work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahin Hosseininejad
- Occupational Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shima Javadifar
- Occupational Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saber Mohammadi
- Occupational Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Mirzamohammadi
- Occupational Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Schumann H, Thielmann B, Botscharow J, Böckelmann I. Recovery and stress of control center dispatchers in the first waves of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2023; 135:228-234. [PMID: 36600144 PMCID: PMC9812342 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-022-02144-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Control center dispatchers (CCDs) are exposed to high levels of work-related mental stress, which are exacerbated by the current severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. The aim of this study was to comparatively analyze the recovery and stress state of CCDs during the first and second waves of the SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic. A total of 490 CCDs (n = 440, t1 and n = 50, t2) with a mean age of 42.26 ± 8.79 years participated directly at the end of the first wave from June to August 2020 (t1) and during the second wave between January and February 2021 (t2) of the SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic. The short form (EBF-24/A; test form S2) of the Kallus recovery-stress questionnaire (EBF) was applied. Over the course of the two survey phases, the dimensions strain significantly increased (t1: 2.47 ± 1.08 vs. t2: 3.12 ± 0.93 points, p < 0.001) and recovery significantly decreased (t1: 3.03 ± 0.94 vs. t2: 2.50 ± 0.81 points, p < 0.001). Significant to highly significant differences were present in the EBF dimensions of the two waves in the majority of cases, even when taking the waves into account. For the variable "recovery in the social field", a medium effect was noticeable in the corrected model (η2 = 0.064). The SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic illustrates that the stress experience increased from the first to the second waves, and the recovery of CCDs decreased. These data provide a directional trend as the pandemic is ongoing, and stress and strain situations in control centers may continue to worsen. Immediate health promotion and prevention measures are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiko Schumann
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Occupational Medicine, School of Medicine, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Beatrice Thielmann
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Occupational Medicine, School of Medicine, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Julia Botscharow
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Occupational Medicine, School of Medicine, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Irina Böckelmann
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Occupational Medicine, School of Medicine, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
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Cezar-Vaz MR, Xavier DM, Bonow CA, Vaz JC, Cardoso LS, Sant’Anna CF, da Costa VZ. Domains of Physical and Mental Workload in Health Work and Unpaid Domestic Work by Gender Division: A Study with Primary Health Care Workers in Brazil. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:9816. [PMID: 36011463 PMCID: PMC9407714 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19169816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Various studies indicate that workload metrics can be used to assess inequities in the division of labor according to gender and in the mental health of health care professionals. In most studies, the workload is portrayed in a way that does not integrate the different fields of work, that is, work in health services and unpaid domestic work. The objective was to determine the effects of the workload domains of health work and unpaid domestic work according to the gender division of health professionals working in primary health care (PHC), and to analyze the workload as an inducer of anxiety disorders and episodes of depression. This cross-sectional study consisted of 342 health care professionals recruited for interview at primary health care units in the extreme south of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Sociodemographic and occupational variables, workload in PHC and unpaid domestic work, and dichotomies of anxiety disorders and episodes of depression were considered. Poisson and multivariate linear regression models were used for data analysis. Cohen's standardized effect size was used to assess the magnitude of the difference between women and men in terms of workload. The female professionals presented higher scores in terms of PHC work and unpaid domestic work and higher proportions of episodes of depression and anxiety disorders compared to males. The male professionals showed that anxiety disorders presented a medium standardized effect size on domestic workload and the level of frustration with family involvement was higher in those with episodes of depression. The results illustrate that the workload metric is an important indicator of female vulnerability to working conditions in PHC and in the family environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Clarice Alves Bonow
- Faculty of Nursing, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96010-610, Brazil
| | - Jordana Cezar Vaz
- Institute of Dermatology Professor Rubem David Azulalay (Medical Residency), Rio de Janeiro 20020-020, Brazil
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Dengler K, Hiesinger K, Tisch A. Digital transformation: The role of computer use in employee health. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2022; 46:101137. [PMID: 35413522 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2022.101137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This paper studies employee health in the context of digital transformation in Germany. While most studies have focused on mental health, we focus on physical health. Using pooled survey data, we estimate how an increased use of computers in the workplace relates to subjective health and work-related health complaints. We find that employees using the computer frequently report better subjective health and a significantly lower prevalence of back pain and physical exhaustion. After controlling for physical work exposures, the health-promoting effect of computer use is much smaller, suggesting that high computer use is associated with a less physically demanding work environment, which in turn relates to better (physical) health outcomes. While digital transformation seems to foster physical health, there are hints that mental health could deteriorate. Thus, the focus of occupational health is shifting towards the prevention of mental stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Dengler
- Institute for Employment Research (IAB), Regensburger Strasse 104, 90478 Nuremberg, Germany.
| | - Karolin Hiesinger
- Institute for Employment Research (IAB), Regensburger Strasse 104, 90478 Nuremberg, Germany.
| | - Anita Tisch
- Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Friedrich-Henkel-Weg 1-25, 44149 Dortmund, Germany.
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Torres I, Gaspar T, Rodrigues P. Work and active aging: is there a relationship between health and meaning in life? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF WORKPLACE HEALTH MANAGEMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/ijwhm-12-2020-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeThis study aims to explain the health impact of work demands and organization, job content, leadership and values in the workplace. It also explores the extent to which health conditions influence the meaning in life in late career.Design/methodology/approachThe sample consisted of 1,330 Portuguese-based individuals aged 55–75 years. The structural equation modeling (SEM) was used for the data analysis and to test the research questions.FindingsThe results showed that stress and burnout are influenced by work demands and organization, job content, leadership and values in the workplace. Employment status had no influence. Health status affects the meaning in life.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough participants were asked to answer the questionnaire bearing in mind their last work experience, retirees could have had difficulty reporting on their last work; therefore, in future research, the use of a qualitative methodology could also be equated as to complement richer information regarding past experiences in the work context.Practical implicationsConsidering the main goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for sustainable development, this study contributes, namely, to the third one – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. In fact, directing a look at the condition in which older people work and at their health contributes not only to more productive organizations, to less spending of public money on health, but also to a more inclusive society. Bearing in mind workers are progressively retiring later and that the exposure to certain work conditions during the late career is problematic for organizations and for society in general, this study has practical and social implication.Originality/valueConsidering demographic changes and the aging of the active population in Portugal and the scarce studies carried out in the country concerning this relevant theme, the authors believe that the conclusions may constitute an important input for workplace policies regarding older workers. In addition, little research has focused on the effect of health in meaning in life.
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Thielmann B, Böckelmann I, Schumann H. Work-Related Behavior and Experience Patterns Among Ambulance Service Personnel of Different Organizational Structures in Urban and Rural Regions. J Occup Environ Med 2022; 64:26-33. [PMID: 34267105 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify work-related experience and behavior patterns among rescue workers in different urban and rural organizational structures. METHODS The subjects included 276 paramedics from Germany (average age 39.3 ± 8.04 years) in three groups (professional fire department, aid organization in urban or rural regions). Work-related behavior and experience patterns (AVEM) were examined. Influences of age, gender, professional qualifications, frequency of operation, and organization were analyzed. RESULTS AVEM risk patterns were detectable in 44.3% of professional fire department personnel and in 20% of both aid organization groups. There were differences in the various AVEM dimensions. Age had a strong influence on the AVEM dimension work-related ambition. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for workplace health promotion and prevention measures, which are especially useful for employees in professional fire departments. Aid organizations in urban and rural regions should also attend to these measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Thielmann
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Magdeburg, Germany (Dr Thielmann, Prof Böckelmann, and Dr Schumann)
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Andrasfay T, Raymo N, Goldman N, Pebley AR. Physical work conditions and disparities in later life functioning: Potential pathways. SSM Popul Health 2021; 16:100990. [PMID: 34917747 PMCID: PMC8666356 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Research in the US on the social determinants of reduced physical functioning at older ages has typically not considered physical work conditions as contributors to disparities. We briefly describe a model of occupational stratification and segregation, review and synthesize the occupational health literature, and outline the physiological pathways through which physical work exposures may be tied to long-term declines in physical functioning. The literature suggests that posture, force, vibration, and repetition are the primary occupational risk factors implicated in the development of musculoskeletal disorders, through either acute injuries or longer-term wear and tear. Personal risk factors and environmental and structural work characteristics can modify this association. In the long-term, these musculoskeletal disorders can become chronic and ultimately lead to functional limitations and disabilities that interfere with one's quality of life and ability to remain independent. We then use data on occupational characteristics from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) linked to the 2019 American Community Survey (ACS) to examine disparities among sociodemographic groups in exposure to these risk factors. Occupations with high levels of these physical demands are not limited to those traditionally thought of as manual or blue-collar jobs and include many positions in the service sector. We document a steep education gradient with less educated workers experiencing far greater physical demands at work than more educated workers. There are pronounced racial and ethnic differences in these exposures with Hispanic, Black, and Native American workers experiencing higher risks than White and Asian workers. Occupations with high exposures to these physical risk factors provide lower compensation and are less likely to provide employer-sponsored health insurance, making it more difficult for workers to address injuries or conditions that arise from their jobs. In sum, we argue that physical work exposures are likely an important pathway through which disparities in physical functioning arise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Andrasfay
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, USA
| | - Nina Raymo
- University of North Carolina Geriatrics Clinic, MedServe, AmeriCorps, USA
| | - Noreen Goldman
- Office of Population Research, Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, USA
| | - Anne R. Pebley
- California Center for Population Research, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, USA
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Van den Berge M, Van Oostrom SH, Van der Molen HF, Robroek SJW, Hulshof CTJ, Van der Beek AJ, Proper KI. Do overweight/obesity and low levels of leisure-time vigorous physical activity moderate the effect of occupational physical activity on self-rated health of construction workers? Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2021; 95:465-475. [PMID: 34622342 PMCID: PMC8795025 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-021-01771-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the combined effects of occupational physical activity (OPA) and either overweight/obesity or low levels of leisure-time vigorous physical activity (LTVPA) on self-rated health. Methods A longitudinal study was performed among 29,987 construction workers with complete data on 2 Workers’ Health Surveillance Programs during 2010–2018. Self-reported OPA involved strenuous work postures and manual material handling. Low level of LTVPA was defined as self-reported vigorous activity for less than three times per week lasting at least 20 min per session. Overweight and obesity were based on Body Mass Index (BMI) (25.0 ≤ BMI < 30.0 kg/m2 and BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m2, respectively) using measured body height and weight. Self-rated health was measured using a single item question. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the associations between the separate risk factors at baseline and self-rated health at follow-up. The combined effects of demanding OPA and either overweight/obesity or low level of LTVPA on self-rated health were analyzed using the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI). Results Mean follow-up duration was 31.7 (SD = 14.9) months. Construction workers with strenuous work postures (OR 1.35 95% CI 1.25–1.46), manual material handling (OR 1.29 95% CI 1.19–1.40), obesity (OR 1.31 95% CI 1.17–1.47) and low LTVPA (OR 1.13 95% CI 1.01–1.25) were more likely to report poor self-rated health at follow-up. No statistically significant interaction effects were found for OPA and obesity or low LTVPA. Conclusions OPA, obesity and low level of LTVPA were separate risk factors for poor self-rated health, but did not appear to have a synergistic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Van den Berge
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S H Van Oostrom
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - H F Van der Molen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S J W Robroek
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C T J Hulshof
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A J Van der Beek
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - K I Proper
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
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12
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Viertiö S, Kiviruusu O, Piirtola M, Kaprio J, Korhonen T, Marttunen M, Suvisaari J. Factors contributing to psychological distress in the working population, with a special reference to gender difference. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:611. [PMID: 33781240 PMCID: PMC8006634 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10560-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Psychological distress refers to non-specific symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, and it is more common in women. Our aim was to investigate factors contributing to psychological distress in the working population, with a special reference to gender differences. Methods We used questionnaire data from the nationally representative Finnish Regional Health and Well-being Study (ATH) collected in the years 2012–2016 (target population participants aged 20 +, n = 96,668, response rate 53%), restricting the current analysis to those persons who were working full-time and under 65 of age (n = 34,468). Psychological distress was assessed using the Mental Health Inventory-5 (MHI-5) (cut-off value <=52). We studied the following factors potentially associated with psychological distress: sociodemographic factors, living alone, having children under18 years of age, lifestyle-related factors, social support, helping others outside of the home and work-related factors. We used logistic regression analysis to examine association between having work-family conflict with the likelihood for psychological distress. We first performed the models separately for men and women. Then interaction by gender was tested in the combined data for those independent variables where gender differences appeared probable in the analyses conducted separately for men and women. Results Women reported more psychological distress than men (11.0% vs. 8.8%, respectively, p < 0.0001). Loneliness, job dissatisfaction and family-work conflict were associated with the largest risk of psychological distress. Having children, active participation, being able to successfully combine work and family roles, and social support were found to be protective factors. A significant interaction with gender was found in only two variables: ignoring family due to being absorbed in one’s work was associated with distress in women (OR 1.30 (95% CI 1.00–1.70), and mental strain of work in men (OR 2.71 (95% CI 1.66–4.41). Conclusions Satisfying work, family life and being able to successfully combine the two are important sources of psychological well-being for both genders in the working population. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10560-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satu Viertiö
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare in Finland (THL), Helsinki, Finland. .,Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Olli Kiviruusu
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare in Finland (THL), Helsinki, Finland.,Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maarit Piirtola
- University of Helsinki, Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jaakko Kaprio
- University of Helsinki, Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tellervo Korhonen
- University of Helsinki, Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mauri Marttunen
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare in Finland (THL), Helsinki, Finland.,Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jaana Suvisaari
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare in Finland (THL), Helsinki, Finland
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13
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The social and health implications of digital work intensification. Associations between exposure to information and communication technologies, health and work ability in different socio-economic strata. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2020; 94:377-390. [PMID: 33084928 PMCID: PMC8032606 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01588-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Older employees are often thought to be vulnerable to negative effects of information and communication technology (ICT). Our study aims to examine associations between work-related ICT exposure (i.e. ICT use or digital work intensification), physical health, mental health and work ability (WA). We examine whether these associations are modified by socio-economic position (SEP). Methods We analysed cross-sectional data from 3180 participants (born in 1959 and 1965) in wave 3 of the representative German lidA cohort study. We performed hierarchical multiple regression to assess the distinct associations of ICT use and digital work intensification with mental and physical health and WA. We stratified analyses by SEP and controlled for age, sex, and digital affinity. Results 92% of participants reported ICT use at work. Almost 20% reported high levels of digital work intensification, while a similar proportion did not experience digital work intensification. In bivariate analyses, ICT use by itself was not significantly associated with mental health or WA in the total sample or when stratified. Digital work intensification displayed negative associations with mental health and WA. In hierarchical multiple regressions, digital work intensification showed consistently negative associations with mental health and work ability of similar strength across SEP. Conclusion Our results suggest that ICT use, per se, does not negatively impact older workers. Digital work intensification may be associated with worse mental health and work ability. Research on health and social implications of work-related ICT should differentiate patterns of ICT exposure and assess modifications by SEP to better gauge the ambiguous effects of ICT.
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Maniscalco L, Schouteden M, Boon J, Matranga D, Godderis L. The Impact of a Change in Employment on Three Work-Related Diseases: A Retrospective Longitudinal Study of 10,530 Belgian Employees. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7477. [PMID: 33066624 PMCID: PMC7602491 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17207477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The literature that has investigated to what extent a change in employment contributes to good health is contradictory or shows inconsistent results. The aim of this study was to investigate whether an association exists between a change in employment and cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and neuropsychological diseases in a sample of 10,530 Belgian workers in a seven-year follow-up study period. METHODS The following factors were analysed: Demographic variables, a change in employment and the work-related risks. Individuals being on medication for cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neuropsychological diseases were used as proxies for the three health issues. Logistic regression models for autocorrelated data with repeated measures were used to examine each medication type. RESULTS A change in employment and psychosocial load can have an important effect on the health of cardiovascular employees. Demographic variables, such as BMI and age, are risk factors for all three medications. Repetitive, manual tasks, handling static, exposure to noise levels of 87 dB, mechanical and/or manual handling with loads, and shift work were found to be positively associated with medications taken for musculoskeletal diseases. Exposure to noise 80 dB(A), managing physical loads and night work were found to be associated with being on medication for neuropsychological diseases. Physical activity and skill levels were considered to be protective factors for being on medication for neuropsychological diseases. CONCLUSIONS Change in employment and psychosocial load were found as two important risk factors for being on medication for cardiovascular (CVD). Dealing with loads, doing shift work and being daily exposed to the noise of 87 dB correlated with being on medication for musculoskeletal (MSD). Dealing with physical loads, doing night work and being exposed to the noise of 80 dB were risk factors for being on medication for neuropsychological (NPD). While doing physical activity and reporting higher skill levels were found to be protective factors for NPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maniscalco
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Martijn Schouteden
- IDEWE, External Service for Prevention and Protection at Work, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium; (M.S.); (J.B.); (L.G.)
| | - Jan Boon
- IDEWE, External Service for Prevention and Protection at Work, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium; (M.S.); (J.B.); (L.G.)
| | - Domenica Matranga
- Department of Health Promotion, Maternal-Child Health, Internal and Specialized Medicine of excellence “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Lode Godderis
- IDEWE, External Service for Prevention and Protection at Work, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium; (M.S.); (J.B.); (L.G.)
- KU Leuven, Centre for Environment and Health, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Yong X, Gao X, Zhang Z, Ge H, Sun X, Ma X, Liu J. Associations of occupational stress with job burn-out, depression and hypertension in coal miners of Xinjiang, China: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e036087. [PMID: 32690741 PMCID: PMC7375507 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-036087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Strategies and measures for fighting occupational stress in China are inadequate. This study aimed to determine the level of occupational stress in coal miners and to assess the associations between occupational stress and job burn-out, depression and hypertension. The results could provide clues for preventive measures and strategies to improve the psychological well-being of this population. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Xinjiang Coal Administration Bureau. PARTICIPANTS Four coal mines were selected randomly (computer-generated random number-based selection process) from the 21 coal mines of Xinjiang, and all miners with >1 year of employment were screened for participation. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES A general demographic questionnaire, the Self-rating Depression Scale, the Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) model and the Maslach Burn-out Inventory. RESULTS A total of 1400 questionnaires were collected, including 1334 (95.3%) valid questionnaires. This survey indicated that 1107 (83.0%) participants with an ERI score >1 (high occupational stress) and 227 (12.8%) had ERI ≤1. Severe depression was found in 21.7% of the participants. Job burn-out was positively correlated with occupational stress, which was, in turn, associated with depression. Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that depression (β=0.006, p=0.012), sex (β=0.358, p<0.001) and occupational stress (β=0.702, p<0.001) were independently associated with job burn-out. Working years (β=-0.086, p=0.015) and job burn-out (β=0.022, p<0.001) were directly associated with depression. CONCLUSION This study highlights that occupational stress may affect job burn-out, depression symptoms and hypertension. A higher degree of occupational stress was associated with poorer mental status and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianting Yong
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xiaoyan Gao
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Hua Ge
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xuemei Sun
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xiaofan Ma
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Jiwen Liu
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
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The Mediating Effect of Unhealthy Behaviors and Body Mass Index in the Relation Between High Physical Workload and Self-Rated Poor Health in Male Construction Workers. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 62:e414-e422. [PMID: 32541621 PMCID: PMC7409768 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the mediating role of unhealthy behaviors and body mass index (BMI) in the relation between high physical workload and self-rated health in male construction workers. METHODS Longitudinal data over 2010 to 2018 were used of 30,224 male construction workers in The Netherlands. Smoking, lack of physical activity, and alcohol consumption were self-reported. BMI was based on measured body weight and height. Multilevel modeling path analyses were used to determine the mediating role of unhealthy behaviors in the relation between physical workload and poor health. RESULTS A direct effect of high physical workload on poor health adjusted for unhealthy behaviors and BMI was found (odds ratio [OR] 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38 to 1.68). Indirect effects of the unhealthy behaviors and BMI in the relation between high physical workload and poor health were small (OR varying from 0.96 to 1.04). CONCLUSION The pathway of high physical workload and poor health through unhealthy behaviors and BMI was not supported.
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