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Kobashi Y, Srou L, Tsubokura M, Nishikawa Y, Laymithuna N, Hok S, Okawada M. Vulnerable groups and protective habits associated with the number of symptoms caused by pesticide application in Kratie, Cambodia: a cross-sectional questionnaire study. J Rural Med 2022; 17:214-220. [PMID: 36397790 PMCID: PMC9613370 DOI: 10.2185/jrm.2022-019] [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: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: The present study aimed to identify pesticide poisoning symptoms and related protective habits to effectively prevent pesticide poisoning among farmworkers in Kratie, Cambodia, where pesticide poisoning is an urgent public health problem. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study based on a questionnaire survey analyzing social demographics, number of symptoms, and protective behavior regarding pesticide application was conducted in Kratie Province from January 25 to 31, 2021. In total, 210 farmworkers completed the survey. The effects of social demographics and pesticide-protective behavioral scores on the number of symptoms were investigated using multivariable regression analysis. Results: The observed number of symptoms was 1.16 times higher among women (P=0.004), increased with the duration of work, and decreased with age. In addition, we identified five significant pesticide-protective behaviors: 1) preparing using gloves, 2) using protective equipment, 3) avoiding wiping sweat, 4) avoiding leaking, and 5) resting when feeling ill. Pesticide-protective behaviors tended to decrease with the duration of working years in the low-education group (B=-0.04, SE=0.01), whereas no association was observed in the high-education group (B=0.01, SE=0.01). Conclusion: Pesticide-protective behaviors significantly correlated with fewer symptoms. The female and aging groups required continuous special education or instructions for implementing pesticide-protective actions, especially the aforementioned five protective actions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Masaharu Tsubokura
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Nishikawa
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Japan
| | | | - Songhy Hok
- Sunrise Japan Hospital Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Manabu Okawada
- Department of Pediatrics, Sunrise Japan Hospital Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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Farfalla AA, Beseler C, Achutan C, Rautiainen R. Coexposure to Solvents and Noise as a Risk Factor for Hearing Loss in Agricultural Workers. J Occup Environ Med 2022; 64:754-760. [PMID: 35703294 PMCID: PMC9426749 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study addressed the relationship of hearing loss and coexposure to solvents and noise among farmers and ranchers in central United States. METHODS The surveillance study included surveys to stratified random samples of operations in 2018 and 2020 (n = 34,146), requesting information on injuries, illnesses, exposures, and preventive measures. Responses (n = 7495) were analyzed using hierarchical multinomial logistic regression, adjusting for personal and work characteristics. RESULTS Nearly 60% of respondents exposed to both solvents and noise reported hearing loss. The exposures increased the adjusted odds of moderate/severe hearing loss as follows: solvents alone, (odds ratio [OR], 1.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.93-2.38), noise alone (OR, 4.42; 95% CI, 3.39-5.76), and coexposure to both noise and solvents (OR, 6.03; 95% CI, 4.67-7.78). CONCLUSIONS Solvent exposure, along with noise, should be considered in hearing conservation programs among farmers and ranchers.
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Wynn M, Kesler K, Morellato J, Higginbotham R, Robertson M, Marsh JL, Hogue M. Agricultural Trauma Causing Open Fractures: Is Antibiotic Coverage Against Anaerobic Organisms Indicated? J Orthop Trauma 2022; 36:e51-e55. [PMID: 34050077 DOI: 10.1097/bot.0000000000002192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare deep infection rate and causative organisms in open fractures of the lower extremity from agricultural trauma with similar injuries in nonagricultural trauma. DESIGN Retrospective. SETTING Two tertiary care institutions. METHODS Open lower extremity fractures sustained between 2003 and 2018 caused by agriculture-related trauma in adult patients were reviewed. A nonagriculture open fracture control group (NAG) was identified for comparison. Patient demographics and injury characteristics were assessed. Outcomes included occurrence of deep infection and causative organisms. RESULTS One hundred seventy-eight patients were identified in the agriculture (AG) (n = 89) and control (NAG) (n = 89) groups. Among patients with agricultural injury, farm machinery was the most common mechanism in 69 (77.5%) of them. Open injuries of the foot (38.2%) and tibial shaft injuries (25.8%) were the most common in the AG and NAG groups, respectively. Deep infection was seen in 21% of patients in the AG group compared with 10% in the NAG group (P < 0.05). In the AG group, anaerobic infection occurred in 44% of patients with deep infection compared with 9.1% in the NAG group (P < 0.05). The most common anaerobic organisms included enterococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Clostridium perfringens. CONCLUSIONS This study supports that open fractures due to agricultural trauma have a high infection rate, with anaerobic infection occurring at higher rates than in injuries due to nonagricultural trauma. Prophylactic treatment with antibiotics directed against anaerobes is indicated in these injuries. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malynda Wynn
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, IA; and
| | - Kyle Kesler
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, IA; and
| | - John Morellato
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Robert Higginbotham
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Michael Robertson
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - John Lawrence Marsh
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, IA; and
| | - Matthew Hogue
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, IA; and
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Caffaro F, Roccato M, de Paolis G, Micheletti Cremasco M, Cavallo E. Promoting farming sustainability: The effects of age, training, history of accidents and social-psychological variables on the adoption of on-farm safety behaviors. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2022; 80:371-379. [PMID: 35249617 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2021.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Occupational safety and health (OSH) have a remarkable impact on the sustainability of firms and organizations. However, the sustainability perspective has often focused primarily on environmental and economic concerns, leaving key social and workplace aspects, such as OSH, underemphasized. The link between all these aspects is particularly relevant in agriculture. METHOD In the present study we analyzed the paths by which the worker's age, participation in safety training, and previous history of accidents and near misses can influence the adoption of safety behaviors in agriculture through the mediation of attitudes towards safety and perceived behavioral control. Three hundred and ten Italian agricultural operators were administered an ad-hoc questionnaire. RESULTS Having attended safety training courses, having been exposed to previous accidents and near misses, and age showed a positive association with the adoption of on-farm safety behaviors, through the mediation of perceived behavioral control. In more detail, participation in training courses and age showed a positive association with perceived behavioral control, while the previous history of accidents and near misses showed a negative association with behavioral control. In turn, perceived behavioral control was positively associated with the adoption of safety behaviors. CONCLUSIONS The present study focused on the chain of events leading to the adoption of on-farm safety behaviors, which can prevent an accidents, pointing out the more critical variables and the level at which they intervene, identifying possible areas of targeted interventions. Practical applications: Implications for the development of targeted interventions may deal with: (a) training activities increasing farm operators' sense of control over their safety, (b) older farmers involvement in mentoring initiatives, and (c) systematic recording and use of previous history of accidents and near misses as inputs for training activities to discuss their implications for on-farm safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Caffaro
- Department of Education, University of Roma Tre, via del Castro Pretorio 20, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Michele Roccato
- Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Via Verdi 10, 10124 Torino, Italy.
| | - Giulia de Paolis
- Department of Education, University of Roma Tre, via del Castro Pretorio 20, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Eugenio Cavallo
- Institute of Sciences and Technologies for Sustainable Energy and Mobility (STEMS) of the National Research Council (CNR) of Italy, Strada delle Cacce 73, 10135 Torino, Italy.
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Hammersley C, Richardson N, Meredith D, Carroll P, McNamara J. "That's Me I am the Farmer of the Land": Exploring Identities, Masculinities, and Health Among Male Farmers' in Ireland. Am J Mens Health 2021; 15:15579883211035241. [PMID: 34414836 PMCID: PMC8383213 DOI: 10.1177/15579883211035241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared to other occupational groups, farmers in Ireland experience a
disproportionate burden of health problems, which impact farmers’ livelihoods
and farming sustainability. Internationally, farmers’ poor health outcomes are
associated with intersecting economic, environmental, socio-cultural, and
occupation-specific factors linked to changes in agricultural governance. This
qualitative study explored the challenges and stressors facing farmers in
Ireland and how changes in farming governance have impacted farmers’ identities,
masculinities and health. Eleven focus groups (n = 26 female,
n = 35 male, age-range 20s–70s) were conducted with both
male farmers (n = 3 focus groups; n = 13) and
key informants (n = 8 focus groups; n = 48, 22
male, 26 female). Utilizing Thematic Content Analysis, transcripts were coded
independently by the first and second author using open and comparative coding
techniques, with emerging themes grouped into primary and subthemes. Theme memos
and conceptual maps tracked evolving relationships between themes. The analysis
identified three broad themes. “Wrestling with challenges to autonomy and
control within farming” examines the impact of tighter regulatory frameworks
associated with changes to farming governance and unpacks other challenges
associated with scale and succession. “Farming masculinities and health”
explores how farming masculinities were closely aligned with farming practices
and health practices and were framed relationally. “Isolation and the demise of
rural communities” considers the impact of reduced social interaction on
loneliness among farmers, particularly among more “at risk” single and older
farmers. Findings provide unique insights into contemporary challenges and
stressors facing farmers and have important implications for informing the
design and roll-out of a national farmers’ health training program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor Hammersley
- Department of Science and Health, National Centre for Men's Health (NCMH), Institute of Technology, Carlow, Ireland.,Teagasc, Ireland's agriculture and food research and development authority, Ashtown Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Noel Richardson
- Department of Science and Health, National Centre for Men's Health (NCMH), Institute of Technology, Carlow, Ireland
| | - David Meredith
- Teagasc, Ireland's agriculture and food research and development authority, Ashtown Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paula Carroll
- Centre for Health Behaviour Research, Waterford Institute of Technology, Waterford, Ireland
| | - John McNamara
- Teagasc, Ireland's agriculture and food research and development authority, Ashtown Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin, Ireland
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McCallum DM, Reed DB, Claunch DT, Davis CM, Conaway MB. Farm Dinner Theater: Testing an innovative health and safety intervention among older farmers and their families. J Rural Health 2021; 38:433-441. [PMID: 34110638 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12601] [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: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The effectiveness of a novel intervention for increasing health and safety behaviors of older farmers was tested. Blending didactic and readers' theater techniques, Farm Dinner Theater (FDT) engages farmers in discussions of health and safety in a nonthreatening social atmosphere supportive of potential changes. METHODS Through community collaborations, farmers 45 years and older were recruited in 8 communities for the FDT. For each site, 3 scripts were prepared highlighting health and safety issues especially relevant for older farmers. The brief plays were performed in a dinner theater format, with group discussion following each play. Printed educational packets (EPs) addressing the same topics were mailed to comparison groups of participants in 9 communities. In telephone interviews conducted 2 weeks and 2 months later, 870 participants (553 FDT and 317 EP) reported health and safety-related changes they had made in their farm operations. FINDINGS FDT participants were more likely than EP participants to report having made any changes and reported making more changes on both the 2-week and 2-month follow-up assessments. This outcome occurred when analyzing all farms and when considering only farms with at least 1 participant who spent 10 or more hours per week farming. CONCLUSIONS FDT is a fun, relaxing intervention; it is acceptable to farming communities; and it is more effective in producing health and safety-related changes than the common approach of providing printed materials. FDT not only had a greater impact than EP, but it has the potential to reach larger audiences due to its greater appeal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra M McCallum
- Institute for Social Science Research, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Deborah B Reed
- College of Nursing and College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Deborah T Claunch
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Cali M Davis
- Sorrell College of Business, Troy University, Troy, Alabama, USA
| | - Michael B Conaway
- Institute for Social Science Research, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
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Witt CD, Reed DB, Rayens MK, Hunsucker S. Predictors of Job Satisfaction in Female Farmers Aged 50 and Over: Implications for Occupational Health Nurses. Workplace Health Saf 2020; 68:526-532. [PMID: 32928074 DOI: 10.1177/2165079920931895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past three decades, the number of female farmers in the United States has increased to nearly 1 million, yet research on this occupational group is limited. Job stress arising from job dissatisfaction in other occupations is associated with both acute and chronic diseases. The purpose of this study was to examine the associations of demographic characteristics, agricultural occupational factors, and health indicators with farm-work satisfaction among female farmers. METHODS Cross-sectional data from the Sustained Work Indicators of Older Farmers Study (2002-2006) was used to examine older female farmers (N = 332) from North Carolina and Kentucky. This secondary data analysis used farm-work questions adapted from the Kentucky Farm Health and Hazard Surveillance Project to measure demographics and occupational factors, the 20-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale to measure depressive symptoms, and a single item from the National Health Interview Survey to measure self-perceived health status. FINDINGS Controlling for demographic characteristics, work factors, and health indicators, the female farmers were more likely to report satisfaction with farm work when they had performed a greater number of agricultural tasks in the past year and if they had lower levels of depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE This study provides an initial basis for further research with women working in agriculture. Occupational health nurses, particularly those practicing in agricultural areas, can enhance their quality of care by having a greater understanding of the factors associated with farming and farm life that affect female farmers' overall health.
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Abalos JB, Booth H. Factors associated with regional variation in disability-free life expectancy based on functional difficulty among older persons in the Philippines. ASIAN POPULATION STUDIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/17441730.2020.1795997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeofrey B. Abalos
- Demographic Research and Development Foundation, Inc., University of the Philippines Diliman, 2/F Palma Hall, Roxas Avenue, corner Roces St, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Heather Booth
- School of Demography, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, The Australian National University, 9 Fellows Road, Acton ACT 2601, Australia
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Vogelsang EM, Raymo JM, Liang J, Kobayashi E, Fukaya T. Population Aging and Health Trajectories at Older Ages. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 74:1245-1255. [PMID: 28575472 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbx071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines relationships between municipal age structure and two types of self-rated health: general (SRH) and comparison with similar-aged peers (C-SRH). METHODS Using a national sample of almost 5,000 Japanese older adults over two decades, we employ hierarchical growth curve models to estimate health trajectories. For municipal age structure, we consider both the relative prevalence of elderly adults in the local population and the pace of aging over time. RESULTS Living in the oldest municipalities was generally associated with worse health, particularly between the ages of 70 and 80 years. For SRH, the speed of municipal population aging was also independently associated with worse health. For C-SRH, worse health in older areas was partially explained by less favorable economic conditions in those municipalities. Results also suggest that higher levels of employment and social integration among older adults living in the oldest municipalities operate in the opposite direction. That is, these attributes partially "protect" individuals from other factors that contribute to worse health. DISCUSSION Relative differences in municipal age structure and the pace of population aging are largely unexplored and potentially important correlates of older adult health. This line of research is increasingly salient in a world with substantial and growing regional variation in population aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Vogelsang
- Department of Sociology, California State University-San Bernardino
| | - James M Raymo
- Department of Sociology, University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Jersey Liang
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Erika Kobayashi
- Department of Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Japan
| | - Taro Fukaya
- Department of Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Japan
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Riccò M, Vezzosi L, Gualerzi G, Odone A, Signorelli C. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of influenza and pneumococcal vaccines among agricultural workers: results of an Italian a cross-sectional study. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2019; 90:439-450. [PMID: 31910168 PMCID: PMC7233756 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v90i4.7631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Working age is increasing across Europe. Seasonal influenza (SID) and pneumococcal disease (PND) immunization programmes might be successfully implemented at the workplace. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among to assess SID and PND vaccine status, as well as knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) in a representative sample of agricultural workers (AWs) aged ≥55 years in North-Eastern Italy. METHODS A structured questionnaire was administered in person by trained personnel. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify behavioral and work-related factors associated with SID and PND vaccine uptake. RESULTS Among 707 participants, 238 were aged 55 years or more (33.7% of total). Of them, 39.1% had an up-to-date immunization status towards influenza, and 17.6% towards pneumococcus. Factors associated with inadequate immunization were doubts about influenza vaccine safety (40.0%) and the confidence in natural immunity towards pneumococcus (30.8%). Attitude towards vaccinations was somehow favorable in 44.5% of participants for SID, and 37.8% for PND. Overall, 37.4% and 21.8% workers were aware of national recommendations on SID and PND immunization, respectively. This factor was characterized as a significant predictor for SID vaccination (multivariated Odds Ratio, OR 32.688 95%CI 12.015-88.930), as well as the perception of SID as a severe disease (OR 7.539 95%CI 3.312-17.164), and the perceived value of preventing new infections (OR 3.215 95%CI 1.205-8.578). A somehow favorable attitude towards vaccinations was the main predictor (OR 39.214 95%CI 10.179-151.1) for PND vaccination. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that older workers lack appropriate knowledge of national recommendations and correct risk perception of SID and PND infections, but also vaccines' side effects. As the latter has been recognized as predictive factor for SID vaccination, our results stress the importance for tailored informative interventions in the workplaces aimed to increase risk perception and vaccine acceptance. (www.actabiomedica.it).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Riccò
- Azienda USL di Reggio EmiliaV.le Amendola n.2 - 42122 REServizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza negli Ambienti di Lavoro (SPSAL)Dip. di Prevenzione.
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Abstract
Agriculture has historically been one of the most hazardous of all occupations, with a variety of potential safety risks to workers and even higher risks documented for older agricultural workers. This study was undertaken to document and summarize Indiana farm work-related fatalities involving persons 55 years and older over the 30 year period from 1988 to 2017. Data were mined from the Purdue University Agricultural Safety and Health Program’s Fatality Database that dates back to the 1960s. A total of 388 fatalities involving persons 55 years and older was documented. The average age of the victims was 69.3 years old, and an overwhelming majority of the cases involved males (96.1%). The average number of deaths per year has remained fairly consistent, though it has occasionally been erratic, with an unanticipated increase in the number of documented fatalities over the period 2012–2017. There appeared to be a direct positive correlation between the level or intensity of agricultural production in a county and the frequency of fatalities. The type of fatal injury most commonly reported was crush/run-over, with 229 cases (59%). The most common agent or source of injury involved was tractors, with 157 cases (40.5%). Another noted contributing factor was the high frequency of incidents in which the victim was reported to be working alone at the time of death. Findings will be used to develop evidence-based injury prevention strategies, including the development of agricultural safety training materials and methods more relevant to older farmers. A special emphasis should be placed on reducing the risk of tractor and farm machinery overturns, especially when older, non-roll over protection structure (ROPS) equipped tractors are being operated.
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Caffaro F, Lundqvist P, Micheletti Cremasco M, Nilsson K, Pinzke S, Cavallo E. Machinery-Related Perceived Risks and Safety Attitudes in Senior Swedish Farmers. J Agromedicine 2019; 23:78-91. [PMID: 28952915 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2017.1384420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To perform an ergonomic analysis of work and machinery-related risks in a group of Swedish older farmers, investigating farmers' attitudes and perceptions about: 1) health status and work motivation, 2) physical and cognitive workload and difficulties in the interaction with machinery and technological innovations, and 3) risks and safety practices. METHODS Nine Swedish male farmers aged 65+ were administered a semi-structured interview and a questionnaire. RESULTS Participants perceived themselves as being in good health and considered farming as a good proxy of their health status. They reported an increased physical workload but did not describe any cognitive workload. Technology was reported to have low usability, and thus its benefits cannot be fully exploited. Older farmers acknowledged the existence of "new risks" related to the aging process and mainly referred to the common sense and previous experience as the best safety practices. CONCLUSION Multilevel interventions focused on the capabilities and limits of the older farmers should be developed, involving both training activities and design solutions for the machinery that can support older farmers' health and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Caffaro
- a Institute for Agricultural and Earthmoving Machines (IMAMOTER) , National Research Council of Italy (CNR) , Torino , Italy
| | - Peter Lundqvist
- b Department of Work Science, Business Economics and Environmental Psychology , Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences , Alnarp , Sweden
| | | | - Kerstin Nilsson
- b Department of Work Science, Business Economics and Environmental Psychology , Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences , Alnarp , Sweden
| | - Stefan Pinzke
- b Department of Work Science, Business Economics and Environmental Psychology , Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences , Alnarp , Sweden
| | - Eugenio Cavallo
- a Institute for Agricultural and Earthmoving Machines (IMAMOTER) , National Research Council of Italy (CNR) , Torino , Italy
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Siegel M, Starks SE, Sanderson WT, Kamel F, Hoppin JA, Gerr F. Organic solvent exposure and depressive symptoms among licensed pesticide applicators in the Agricultural Health Study. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2017; 90:849-857. [PMID: 28702848 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-017-1245-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although organic solvents are often used in agricultural operations, neurotoxic effects of solvent exposure have not been extensively studied among farmers. The current analysis examined associations between questionnaire-based metrics of organic solvent exposure and depressive symptoms among farmers. METHODS Results from 692 male Agricultural Health Study participants were analyzed. Solvent type and exposure duration were assessed by questionnaire. An "ever-use" variable and years of use categories were constructed for exposure to gasoline, paint/lacquer thinner, petroleum distillates, and any solvent. Depressive symptoms were ascertained with the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D); scores were analyzed separately as continuous (0-60) and dichotomous (<16 versus ≥16) variables. Multivariate linear and logistic regression models were used to estimate crude and adjusted associations between measures of solvent exposure and CES-D score. RESULTS Forty-one percent of the sample reported some solvent exposure. The mean CES-D score was 6.5 (SD 6.4; median 5; range 0-44); 92% of the sample had a score below 16. After adjusting for covariates, statistically significant associations were observed between ever-use of any solvent, long duration of any solvent exposure, ever-use of gasoline, ever-use of petroleum distillates, and short duration of petroleum distillate exposure and continuous CES-D score (p < 0.05). Although nearly all associations were positive, fewer statistically significant associations were observed between metrics of solvent exposure and the dichotomized CES-D variable. CONCLUSIONS Solvent exposures were associated with depressive symptoms among farmers. Efforts to limit exposure to organic solvents may reduce the risk of depressive symptoms among farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Siegel
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, 111 Washington Avenue, Suite 213, Lexington, KY, 40536-0003, USA.
| | - Sarah E Starks
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, University of Iowa Research Park, 140 IREH, Iowa City, IA, 52242-5000, USA
| | - Wayne T Sanderson
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, 111 Washington Avenue, Suite 213, Lexington, KY, 40536-0003, USA
| | - Freya Kamel
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, MD A3-05, Research Triangle Park, PO Box 12233, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Jane A Hoppin
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, MD A3-05, Research Triangle Park, PO Box 12233, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Fred Gerr
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, University of Iowa Research Park, 140 IREH, Iowa City, IA, 52242-5000, USA
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Nilsson K. Interventions to reduce injuries among older workers in agriculture: A review of evaluated intervention projects. Work 2016; 55:471-480. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-162407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Nilsson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Work Science, Business Economics and Environmental Psychology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
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Hiebert B, Leipert B, Regan S, Burkell J. Rural Men's Health, Health Information Seeking, and Gender Identities: A Conceptual Theoretical Review of the Literature. Am J Mens Health 2016; 12:863-876. [PMID: 27170674 DOI: 10.1177/1557988316649177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Beginning as early as 2009, recent shifts in Canadian health care delivery indicate that access to health information is essential to promote and maintain a healthy population. It is important to understand how and where various populations, such as underresourced rural populations, access health information so that public health agencies can develop and deliver appropriate information with, for, and in these contexts. There is a paucity of research that specifically examines how rural Canadian men seek health information; therefore, this review aimed to conceptualize this process based on three dynamic key constructs: health patterns of rural Canadians, health information-seeking behaviors, and rural gender identities. This conceptual theoretical literature review included 91 articles at the intersection of these three constructs. Discussion focuses on how residing in a rural region influences men's health and health care access. Health information-seeking behaviors are discussed in terms of social networks and framed with a rural context. Connell's theory of masculinity provides a useful approach to dissecting how rural men's gender identities influence their health attitudes, and how such attitudes are embedded in rural social and cultural norms. Each major construct-health in rural Canada, health information seeking, and rural gender identities-is discussed to highlight how specific embodiments of masculinity may promote and inhibit men's health information-seeking and positive health behaviors.
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Tonelli S, Culp K, Donham K. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in senior farmers: safety and health considerations. Workplace Health Saf 2014; 62:333-41. [PMID: 25191676 DOI: 10.1177/216507991406200804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aging farmers are at high risk musculoskeletal disorders due to occupational exposures. The development of musculoskeletal conditions can increase older farmers' risk for additional injuries because many older farmers continue to work past typical retirement age. Occupational health nurses with agricultural expertise can assist farmers by evaluating their health and safety needs. Possible interventions include ergonomic improvements in farm equipment, safety improvements in farm environment, and referrals to programs that assist older farmers in modifying their farms to improve safety.
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Tonelli S, Culp K, Donham K. Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Senior Farmers: Safety and Health Considerations. Workplace Health Saf 2014. [DOI: 10.3928/21650799-20140708-04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Quandt SA, Kucera KL, Haynes C, Klein BG, Langley R, Agnew M, Levin JL, Howard T, Nussbaum MA. Occupational health outcomes for workers in the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector: implications for immigrant workers in the southeastern US. Am J Ind Med 2013; 56:940-59. [PMID: 23450720 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Workers in the Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (AgFF) sector experience exposures directly related to the work itself, as well as the physical environment in which the work occurs. Health outcomes vary from immediate to delayed, and from acute to chronic. METHODS We reviewed existing literature on the health outcomes of work in the AgFF sector and identified areas where further research is needed to understand the impact of these exposures on immigrant Latino workers in the southeastern US. RESULTS Outcomes related to specific body systems (e.g., musculoskeletal, respiratory) as well as particular exposure sources (e.g., pesticides, noise) were reviewed. The most extensive evidence exists for agriculture, with a particular focus on chemical exposures. Little research in the southeastern US has examined health outcomes of exposures of immigrant workers in forestry or fisheries. CONCLUSION As the AgFF labor force includes a growing number of Latino immigrants, more research is needed to characterize a broad range of exposures and health outcomes experienced by this population, particularly in forestry and fisheries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristen L. Kucera
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Department of Community and Family Medicine; Duke University; Durham; North Carolina
| | - Courtney Haynes
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering; School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences; Virginia Tech; Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Bradley G. Klein
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology; Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine; Virginia Tech; Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Ricky Langley
- Division of Public Health; North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services; Raleigh; North Carolina
| | - Michael Agnew
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering; School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences; Virginia Tech; Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Jeffrey L. Levin
- Department of Occupational Health Sciences; University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler; Tyler; Texas
| | | | - Maury A. Nussbaum
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering; School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences; Virginia Tech; Blacksburg, Virginia
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Copuroglu C, Heybeli N, Ozcan M, Yilmaz B, Ciftdemir M, Copuroglu E. Major extremity injuries associated with farmyard accidents. ScientificWorldJournal 2012; 2012:314038. [PMID: 23002385 PMCID: PMC3353295 DOI: 10.1100/2012/314038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2011] [Accepted: 12/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study is to analyze the major agricultural injuries related to the extremities. PATIENTS We evaluated a 3-year period including 41 patients. Data on age, sex, injury patterns, anatomical localizations, injury season, length of stay in the hospital, and infections were evaluated, and the patients were examined with SF-36 in the follow-up period. RESULTS Hand was the most commonly injured part (n: 9) followed by the distal part of the lower limb (cruris) (n: 7) and foot (n: 7). Mean time between trauma and emergency-department arrival was 115 minutes (60-360). Mean length of stay was 24 days (4-150), and mean number of operations during hospitalization was 2.4 (1-30). Deep wound infection was seen in 8 patients. Seasonal distribution for accidents was even for spring and fall (27% each), high for summer (36%), and less for winter (10%). CONCLUSIONS Distal parts of the elbow and knee were affected more frequently. Due to the high microbiological load and high incidence of crush-type injuries, repetitive debridements and long duration of hospital stay were needed. Attention should be paid in the harvesting times to the farmyard injuries. Due to the seasonal variation, more resources should be allocated to treat the increasing incidence of injury over the period from spring to fall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cem Copuroglu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Trakya University, 22050 Edirne, Turkey.
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Scott EE, Earle-Richardson G, Krupa N, Jenkins P. A correction factor for estimating statewide agricultural injuries from ambulance reports. Ann Epidemiol 2011; 21:767-72. [PMID: 21884968 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2011.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2011] [Revised: 07/12/2011] [Accepted: 07/16/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Agriculture ranks as one of the most hazardous industries in the nation. Agricultural injury surveillance is critical to identifying and reducing major injury hazards. Currently, there is no comprehensive system of identifying and characterizing fatal and serious non-fatal agricultural injuries. Researchers sought to calculate a multiplier for estimating the number of agricultural injury cases based on the number of times the farm box indicator was checked on the ambulance report. METHODS Farm injuries from 2007 that used ambulance transport were ascertained for 10 New York counties using two methods: (1) ambulance reports including hand-entered free text; and (2) community surveillance. The resulting multiplier that was developed from contrasting these two methods was then applied to the statewide Emergency Medical Services database to estimate the total number of agricultural injuries for New York state. RESULTS There were 25,735 unique ambulance runs due to injuries in the 10 counties in 2007. Among these, the farm box was checked a total of 90 times. Of these 90, 63 (70%) were determined to be agricultural. Among injury runs where the farm box was not checked, an additional 59 cases were identified from the free text. Among these 122 cases (63 + 59), four were duplicates. Twenty-four additional unique cases were identified from the community surveillance for a total of 142. This yielded a multiplier of 142/90 = 1.578 for estimating all agricultural injuries from the farm box indicator. Sensitivity and specificity of the ambulance report method were 53.4% and 99.9%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This method provides a cost-effective way to estimate the total number of agricultural injuries for the state. However, it would not eliminate the more labor intensive methods that are required to identify of the actual individual case records. Incorporating an independent source of case ascertainment (community surveillance) increased the multiplier by 17%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika E Scott
- New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health/ Northeast Center for Agricultural and Occupational Health, Bassett Healthcare Network, One Atwell Road, Cooperstown, NY.
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Earle-Richardson GB, Jenkins PL, Scott EE, May JJ. Improving agricultural injury surveillance: a comparison of incidence and type of injury event among three data sources. Am J Ind Med 2011; 54:586-96. [PMID: 21538445 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Agriculture ranks as one of the most hazardous industries in the nation. Ongoing injury surveillance is key to identifying and preventing major sources of injury. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare the total number and types of injuries identified from community reporting versus two newly available medical data systems. These new systems are important because they are less time consuming and expensive to maintain. METHOD Farm injury case records from 2007 were collected for 10 NY counties from the following sources: ambulance reports, hospital data, and community surveillance data. RESULTS For the 107 ambulance report cases, horses (35%), tractors (15%), and livestock (10%) were the three leading injury sources. For the 261 hospital cases, the leading sources were hand tools (24%), farmstead machinery (23%), and buildings/structures/surfaces (22%). Tractor injuries (37%) were the most common source of injuries identified by the 44 community surveillance cases. Struck by object was the most frequent injury event type for hospital and surveillance data (34%, 30%). Falls were the highest category for ambulance reports (36%) and were also common for hospital data (29%). Nine of the 11 fatal cases were found through community surveillance. CONCLUSION Ambulance reports and hospital data contribute a large number of additional farm injury cases to existing surveillance data. From these cases, horse injuries, falls, and hand tool injuries appear to play a larger role in farm injuries. Future research should explore how to best use these electronic resources for agricultural injury surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia B Earle-Richardson
- The New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, USA
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Marcum JL, Browning SR, Reed DB, Charnigo RJ. Determinants of Work Hours Among a Cohort of Male and Female Farmers 50 Years and Older in Kentucky and South Carolina (2002–2005). J Agromedicine 2011; 16:163-73. [DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2011.581529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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23
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Freydberg N, Strain L, Tsuyuki RT, McAlister FA, Clark AM. “If he gives in, he will be gone…”: The influence of work and place on experiences, reactions and self-care of heart failure in rural Canada. Soc Sci Med 2010; 70:1077-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2009.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2009] [Revised: 09/30/2009] [Accepted: 11/16/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Fenton GD, Brasier KJ, Henning GF, Radhakrishna RB, Jayarao BM. Occupational Health Characteristics of Women on Dairy Farms in Pennsylvania. J Agromedicine 2010; 15:7-15. [DOI: 10.1080/10599240903389649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Friesen M, Krassikouva-Enns O, Ringaert L, Isfeld H. Farming with a Disability: Literature from a Canadian Perspective. J Agromedicine 2010; 15:47-53. [DOI: 10.1080/10599240903389706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Bunn TL, Liu Y, Lee K, Robertson M, Yu L. Farmer exposure to organic solvents during the maintenance and repair of farm machinery: a pilot study. Am J Ind Med 2009; 52:973-81. [PMID: 19882742 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The maintenance/repair of farm machinery is a common farming activity. Dermal exposure to organic solvents has not been well documented. A pilot study was conducted to characterize exposure to organic solvents. METHODS A survey questionnaire was administered to 31 Kentucky farmers in 2008. Dermal exposure assessment was conducted in 10 farmers while farmers performed farm machinery maintenance/repair tasks using a solvent sampling patch. Benzene, toluene, xylene, and n-hexane were analyzed. RESULTS All four organic solvents were identified from the samples with toluene (<0.5-36,000 microg/patch) and xylene (15-5,700 microg/patch) at significantly higher levels. Twenty-six farmers reported the use of personal protective equipment <50% of their time repairing/maintaining farm machinery on the questionnaire; only two farmers wore gloves during the exposure assessment. CONCLUSIONS Farmers routinely use solvent products for farm machinery maintenance/repair. Dermal exposure to organic solvents is a potential hazard. Further studies to characterize and evaluate exposure in larger samples of farmers are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry L Bunn
- Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, Kentucky 40504, USA
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Respiratory Symptom Reporting Error in Occupational Surveillance of Older Farmers. J Occup Environ Med 2009; 51:472-9. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0b013e3181973de5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Mitchell J, Bradley D, Wilson J, Goins RT. The Aging Farm Population and Rural Aging Research. J Agromedicine 2008; 13:95-109. [DOI: 10.1080/10599240802125383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Abstract
A random sample ( N = 87) of older Illinois farmers was surveyed to assess their experiences with traumatic injuries and the relationship between injury rate and age, type of farm activities, amount of stress, and hours of work per week. Farmers' knowledge of safety was assessed. Findings revealed that the number of hours worked, age, and type of farm activities were not significantly related to the number of injuries reported. However, self-reported stress, when stratified by age, was found to be related to injury among farmers aged 55 to 59 years. Also, scores on a farm safety quiz were found to be higher (less knowledge) among farmers who reported more injuries. Items in the safety quiz frequently missed by farmers included falls as a source of injury (29.2%), children being commonly injured on farms (19%), the cause of farmers' lung disease (46.9%), and animals as a cause of injury on farms (12.9%).
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Abstract
A random sample ( N = 87) of older Illinois farmers was surveyed to assess their experiences with traumatic injuries and the relationship between injury rate and age, type of farm activities, amount of stress, and hours of work per week. Farmers' knowledge of safety was assessed. Findings revealed that the number of hours worked, age, and type of farm activities were not significantly related to the number of injuries reported. However, self-reported stress, when stratified by age, was found to be related to injury among farmers aged 55 to 59 years. Also, scores on a farm safety quiz were found to be higher (less knowledge) among farmers who reported more injuries. Items in the safety quiz frequently missed by farmers included falls as a source of injury (29.2%), children being commonly injured on farms (19%), the cause of farmers' lung disease (46.9%), and animals as a cause of injury on farms (12.9%).
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