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Stack S. Suicide Among Roofers: Injury, Pain & Substance Misuse. Arch Suicide Res 2024; 28:917-933. [PMID: 37797624 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2023.2262535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE CDC has called for suicide research on the construction industry, an industry with a high suicide rate. The present study addresses this gap and focuses on roofers. It assesses which risk factors distinguish suicides by roofers from those of the general population. Alcohol and drug misuse, related to their high incidence of injury and pain, are seen as key potential drivers of roofer suicide. METHODOLOGY Data refer to 30,570 suicides and are taken from the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS). Drawing from previous work on the health professions, 15 core predictors are selected, representing psychiatric morbidity, social strains, and demographics. Since the analysis seeks to differentiate roofers' suicides from others, the dependent variable is a dichotomy where roofers' suicides (=1) and other suicides (=0). RESULTS After adjusting for the other 14 risk factors, a multivariate logistic regression analysis found that roofers' suicides were 76% more apt (Odds ratio = 1.76, CI: 1.18, 2.63) than other suicides to have a known substance or alcohol problem that contributed to their suicide. Other constructs differentiating roofers' suicides from other suicides included marital status, gender, and race. Roofers were less protected by marriage. CONCLUSION The results inform prevention efforts and substance misuse can serve as a key warning sign for roofers' suicide. This is the first investigation of the drivers of suicide among roofers, and one of a few drawing links between occupational injury and suicide.
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Ahn S, McClure LA, Pinheiro PS, Hernandez D, Boga DJ, Ukani H, Chavez JV, Quintela Fernandez JA, Caban-Martinez AJ, Kobetz E, Lee DJ. Methodological and Practical Challenges in Synthesizing Occupational Cancer Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:742. [PMID: 38928988 PMCID: PMC11203818 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21060742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Studies examining occupational exposures and cancer risk frequently report mixed findings; it is thus imperative for researchers to synthesize study results and identify any potential sources that explain such variabilities in study findings. However, when synthesizing study results using meta-analytic techniques, researchers often encounter a number of practical and methodological challenges. These challenges include (1) an incomparability of effect size measures due to large variations in research methodology; (2) a violation of the independence assumption for meta-analysis; (3) a violation of the normality assumption of effect size measures; and (4) a variation in cancer definitions across studies and changes in coding standards over time. In this paper, we first demonstrate these challenges by providing examples from a real dataset collected for a large meta-analysis project that synthesizes cancer mortality and incidence rates among firefighters. We summarize how each of these challenges has been handled in our meta-analysis. We conclude this paper by providing practical guidelines for handling challenges when synthesizing study findings from occupational cancer literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyeon Ahn
- Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, School of Education and Human Development, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Laura A. McClure
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
| | - Paulo S. Pinheiro
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA
| | - Diana Hernandez
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
| | - Devina J. Boga
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
| | - Henna Ukani
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
| | - Jennifer V. Chavez
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
| | | | - Alberto J. Caban-Martinez
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA
| | - Erin Kobetz
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA
| | - David J. Lee
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA; (L.A.M.); (P.S.P.); (D.H.); (D.J.B.); (H.U.); (J.V.C.); (A.J.C.-M.); (E.K.); (D.J.L.)
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA
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Ho HC, Wong SSC, Cheung CW. Individual-level and neighborhood-level shifts in mortality patterns among drug poisoning deaths in a high-density Asian city: a territory-wide, case-only analysis. Int Health 2023; 15:715-722. [PMID: 36916328 PMCID: PMC10629959 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihad015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The shifts in individual-level and neighborhood-level patterns of drug poisoning deaths in a high-density Asian city over time have been underestimated, although they provide essential information for community-based surveillance and interventions. METHODS A case-only analysis with a 16-y, territory-wide, population-based registry in Hong Kong was applied to compare drug poisoning deaths from 2001 to 2010 with 2011 to 2016. Drug poisoning deaths, deaths from heroin and deaths from other opioids (codeine or morphine) were extracted (ICD codes: T36-T50, T40.1, T40.2). Binomial regressions were used to estimate the shifts in mortality patterns. RESULTS Among 3069 drug poisoning deaths, a significant shift in mortality patterns was found despite a decreasing mortality trend in Hong Kong. Overall, drug poisoning deaths shifted towards middle-aged/young-old, widowed/divorced, economically active, white collar and non-local born. Since 2011, more deaths from heroin were in older ages and non-local born, but less were never married and economically inactive. More deaths from other opioids were middle-aged, young-old and divorced. In particular, most decedents shifted towards young-old, especially deaths from other opioids. Compared with deaths during 2001-2010, there were 3.72- and 6.50-fold more deaths from heroin and deaths from other opioids in those aged ≥60 y since 2021 (ORs: 3.72 [2.37, 5.86], 6.50 [3.97, 10.65]), respectively. Additionally, drug poisoning deaths shifted towards areas with less neighborhood deprivation (more high-education individuals and a mix of private/public housing residents), especially deaths from other opioids. CONCLUSION Misuse of registered drugs (e.g. opioid pain relievers) could be a rising trend among vulnerable subpopulations in Hong Kong other than illegal drug use (heroin). Health officials should provide more advice and support on drug information. Specifically, an improved health system with education regarding the appropriate use of registered drugs for medical treatments should be provided to mid-/high-income and local-born individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung Chak Ho
- Department of Anaesthesiology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Stanley Sau-Ching Wong
- Department of Anaesthesiology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Wai Cheung
- Department of Anaesthesiology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Somerset S, Jones W, Evans C, Cirelli C, Mbang D, Blake H. Opt-in HIV testing in construction workplaces: an exploration of its suitability, using the socioecological framework. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1409. [PMID: 35870921 PMCID: PMC9308504 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13787-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Late diagnosis of HIV remains a challenge, despite improved testing and treatment. Testing is often targeted at high-risk groups; workplace events might normalise testing and allow access to a wider population. The construction workforce has a number of risk factors for HIV. In the Test@Work study, HIV tests were delivered within general health checks to construction employees, with high uptake and acceptability. This paper reports on the experiences of construction managers and health professionals involved in Test@Work and explores the suitability of construction worksites as a venue for opt-in HIV testing. Methods Qualitative interviews (n = 24) were conducted with construction managers who had facilitated health check/HIV testing (n = 13), and delivery partners (n = 11) including i) healthcare volunteers who had delivered general health checks (n = 7) and, ii) HIV professionals who had conducted HIV testing (n = 4) at 21 Test@Work events held on construction sites. Interviews explored their experiences of these events and views towards HIV testing in the workplace. Exit questionnaires (n = 107) were completed by delivery partners after every event, providing qualitative data identifying facilitators and barriers to effective delivery. Thematic analysis identified themes that were mapped against a socioecological framework. Results Delivery partners reported high engagement of construction workers with workplace HIV testing, peer-to-peer encouragement for uptake, and value for accessibility of onsite testing. HIV professionals valued the opportunity to reach an untested population, many of whom had a poor understanding of their exposure to HIV risk. Managers valued the opportunity to offer workplace health checks to employees but some identified challenges with event planning, or provision of private facilities. Conclusions The construction sector is complex with a largely male workforce. Providing worksite HIV testing and education to an untested population who have poor knowledge about HIV risk helped to normalise testing, encourage uptake and reduce HIV-related stigma. However, there are practical barriers to testing in the construction environment. Rapid testing may not be the most suitable approach given the challenges of maintaining confidentiality on construction worksites and alternatives should be explored. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13787-5.
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Caruso M, Hoyer D, Clinton L, Correia CJ. Substance use behaviors among college students in the food service industry. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022:1-8. [PMID: 36170459 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2119396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Food service employment is associated with substance use, risk of substance use disorders and various negative consequences. Previous research has not examined the substance use patterns of students employed in food service positions. Method: During Fall of 2018, 276 undergraduates completed an anonymous online survey regarding current employment status and substance use. Results: Compared to students employed in other positions, students in food service positions reported higher levels of drinking to cope with negative affect, negative urgency, workplace substance use, marijuana use, marijuana-related problems, and motives. Food service employment was also a significant predictor of marijuana use and related consequences. Conclusions: Students in food service positions, relative to other employment positions, report elevated substance use behavior, risk factors, and negative consequences. Food service employment also contributed variance to models accounting for marijuana use and related consequences. Prevention and intervention strategies should be investigated to mitigate risk for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Caruso
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Dennis Hoyer
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Lauren Clinton
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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Hashim A, Mohammed NA, Othman A, Gab-Allah MAK, Al-Kahodary AHM, Gaber ER, Hassan AM, Aranda M, Hussien R, Mokhtar A, Islam MS, Lee KY, Asghar MS, Tahir MJ, Yousaf Z. Pattern of novel psychoactive substance use among patients presented to the poison control centre of Ain Shams University Hospitals, Egypt: A cross-sectional study. Heliyon 2022; 8:e10084. [PMID: 36039128 PMCID: PMC9418213 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) are relatively new substances in the illicit drug market, not previously listed in the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNDOC). Strox and Voodoo are considered some of the most popular blends of NPS in the Egyptian drug market. Objectives The current study was conducted to assess NPS's use pattern: Voodoo and Strox among acutely intoxicated patients presented to the poison control center of Ain Shams University Hospitals (PCC- ASUH). Methods A single center based cross-sectional study was carried out in the PCC-ASUH among acutely intoxicated patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) over four months (from January–April 2019. using a previously adopted and validated Fahmy and El-Sherbini socioeconomic scale (SES). Data were presented as mean, median and range as appropriate. Both smoking and crowding indexes were calculated and presented as previously reported. Results Fifty-one patients were presented to the ED of PCC-ASUH during the study period. A total of 96.1% (n = 49) were males. The mean age was 25 ± 7.5 years. The most common NPS used was Strox: 54.9% (n = 28), followed by Voodoo: 27.4% (n = 14). Neurological and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms were the most frequent presentations. The most common motive behind NPS use was the desire to give a trial of new psychoactive substances. The mean SES score was 35.1 ± 13.17. Most patients have the preparatory as the highest education 36.0% (n = 18). Conclusions NPS use is common among young males in preparatory education from different social classes, starting it most commonly as a means to experiencing a new high. Neurological and GI manifestations are the most common presenting symptoms of NPS intoxication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Hashim
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nouran A Mohammed
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - AlFadl Othman
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohab A K Gab-Allah
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed H M Al-Kahodary
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eslam R Gaber
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M Hassan
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Aranda
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania Hussien
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amany Mokhtar
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Md Saiful Islam
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, 1342, Bangladesh.,Centre for Advanced Research, Excellence in Public Health, Savar, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh
| | - Ka Yiu Lee
- Swedish Winter Sports Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
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Ezhumalai S, Muralidhar D, Murthy P. Occupational factors associated with long-term abstinence among persons treated for alcohol dependence: A follow-up study. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2022; 26:122-128. [PMID: 35991207 PMCID: PMC9384881 DOI: 10.4103/ijoem.ijoem_37_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several studies have examined the occupational factors associated with alcohol use and dependence. However, there are very few studies that investigated the role of occupational factors associated with long-term abstinence among persons treated for alcohol dependence in India. Aim To examine the occupational factors associated with long-term abstinence among persons treated for alcohol dependence. Methods Sixty in-patients treated for alcohol dependence were selected using inclusion criteria from the Government-run de-addiction center, tertiary care teaching hospital, Bangalore. All patients were followed up periodically for 1 year. The semi-structured interview schedule was used for collecting data on occupational factors associated with long-term abstinence. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and Fisher exact test were used for data analysis. Results There was a positive trend showing self-employed (pf = 1.74, P = 0.45), having skilled work (pf = 1.52, P = 0.72), regular pattern of employment (pf = 1.21, P =.60), monthly mode of income (pf = 1.43, P =.76) were factors associated with abstinence. Among eight occupational variables, employment status (x 2 = 4.0, P =.04) and having well-defined working hours ((pf = 6.18, P =.04) were significantly associated with long-term abstinence among persons treated for alcohol dependence. Conclusion Occupational factors seem to influence the outcome in alcohol dependence and appropriate vocational interventions would be effective in promoting long-term abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinu Ezhumalai
- Department of Psychiatric Social Work, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India,Address for correspondence: Dr. Sinu Ezhumalai, Department of Psychiatric Social Work, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangaluru - 560029, Karnataka, India. E-mail:
| | - D. Muralidhar
- Department of Psychiatric Social Work, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Pratima Murthy
- Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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Jones W, Somerset S, Evans C, Whittingham K, Middleton M, Blake H. Test@work: evaluation of workplace HIV testing for construction workers using the RE-AIM framework. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1737. [PMID: 34560853 PMCID: PMC8464147 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11739-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community testing for HIV can reach previously untested populations but is rarely offered in workplaces. Targeting the construction sector could reach workers from high risk populations. METHODS The RE-AIM framework was used to evaluate Test@Work, a workplace HIV testing intervention for construction workers implemented at 21 events (10 companies) in the UK. Test@Work had three components: 1) an online health toolkit to inform managers about health screening and HIV testing; 2) general health checks; and 3) opt-in HIV consultation and testing. Quantitative data were collected using registration and exit questionnaires with workers (n = 426) and pre/post-event questionnaires with managers (n = 15), with qualitative analysis of free text responses. RESULTS Reach 426 individuals had health checks. Participants were broadly representative of the UK construction workforce, but with a higher proportion of permanent workers. Most workers reported being in good health but also believed their work had an adverse impact on their health. Effectiveness: 97% of health check participants opted to have a consultation about sexual health (n = 413) and 82% had an HIV test (n = 348), of whom 78% had not previously been tested. All HIV tests were non-reactive. HIV testing at work was considered acceptable by most participants. Participants reported learning new things about their health (74%), said they would make changes as a result (70%) and felt confident of success (median score 8/10). Adoption: Recruitment of companies was challenging and time consuming. Seven of the participating companies were very large, employing over 1000 workers, which is atypical of construction generally. IMPLEMENTATION All events were completed as planned and were considered successful by all parties. Maintenance: All managers would arrange further events if they were offered them. Six managers incorporated sexual health awareness into their health programmes, but this was not possible for many as health agendas were set centrally by their organisations. CONCLUSIONS Opt-in HIV testing, when embedded within a general health check, has high uptake and acceptability in the UK construction sector, and reaches individuals at risk for HIV who may not otherwise attend for testing. Cost-effectiveness of this approach is yet to be determined. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04292002 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Jones
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Sarah Somerset
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Catrin Evans
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | | | - Holly Blake
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK.
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Middleton M, Somerset S, Evans C, Blake H. Test@Work Texts: Mobile Phone Messaging to Increase Awareness of HIV and HIV Testing in UK Construction Employees during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7819. [PMID: 33114546 PMCID: PMC7672579 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background: HIV poses a threat to global health. With effective treatment options available, education and testing strategies are essential in preventing transmission. Text messaging is an effective tool for health promotion and can be used to target higher risk populations. This study reports on the design, delivery and testing of a mobile text messaging SMS intervention for HIV prevention and awareness, aimed at adults in the construction industry and delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Participants were recruited at Test@Work workplace health promotion events (21 sites, n = 464 employees), including health checks with HIV testing. Message development was based on a participatory design and included a focus group (n = 9) and message fidelity testing (n = 291) with assessment of intervention uptake, reach, acceptability, and engagement. Barriers to HIV testing were identified and mapped to the COM-B behavioural model. 23 one-way push SMS messages (19 included short web links) were generated and fidelity tested, then sent via automated SMS to two employee cohorts over a 10-week period during the COVID-19 pandemic. Engagement metrics measured were: opt-outs, SMS delivered/read, number of clicks per web link, four two-way pull messages exploring repeat HIV testing, learning new information, perceived usefulness and behaviour change. Results: 291 people participated (68.3% of eligible attendees). A total of 7726 messages were sent between March and June 2020, with 91.6% successfully delivered (100% read). 12.4% of participants opted out over 10 weeks. Of delivered messages, links were clicked an average of 14.4% times, max 24.1% for HIV related links. The number of clicks on web links declined over time (r = -6.24, p = 0.01). Response rate for two-way pull messages was 13.7% of participants. Since the workplace HIV test offer at recruitment, 21.6% reported having taken a further HIV test. Qualitative replies indicated behavioural influence of messaging on exercise, lifestyle behaviours and intention to HIV test. Conclusions: SMS messaging for HIV prevention and awareness is acceptable to adults in the construction industry, has high uptake, low attrition and good engagement with message content, when delivered during a global pandemic. Data collection methods may need refinement for audience, and effect of COVID-19 on results is yet to be understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Middleton
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
| | - Sarah Somerset
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK; (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Catrin Evans
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK; (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Holly Blake
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK; (S.S.); (C.E.)
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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Impact of Alcohol on Occupational Health and Safety in the Construction Industry at Workplaces with Scaffoldings. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10196690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The value, care, and customs of workers are essential in terms of occupational health and safety. The abuse of alcohol is widely regarded as a serious threat to the lives, health, and safety of employees. The aim of the research was to identify the main problems that are associated with alcohol abuse and consumption at work among employees in the construction industry, with particular emphasis on workstations where work is carried out on construction scaffoldings. Data for the analysis were obtained from two different sources. The first one was post-accident documentation on occupational accidents. The second one was surveys collected during the research project. This study confirmed that excessive and disproportionate alcohol consumption can be the cause of an accident, and consequently death at workplaces with scaffolding. Of 219 accident reports, 17.4% indicated alcohol as a contributing factor. Analysis of accident documentations shows that in cases where alcohol was indicated as a contributing factor in an accident, the alcohol was consumed during the workday. The results obtained on the basis of the conducted research were able to constitute a justification for the directions of preventive actions carried out in order to reduce the number of occupational accidents in the construction industry caused by alcohol.
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Gutin I, Hummer RA. Occupation, employment status, and "despair"-associated mortality risk among working-aged U.S. adults, 1997-2015. Prev Med 2020; 137:106129. [PMID: 32439488 PMCID: PMC7311220 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The recent rise in U.S. midlife mortality has been conceptualized as a "working-class" crisis, defined by increasing mortality among blue-collar and/or unemployed workers and the decline of manual labor; yet research on the topic overwhelmingly focuses on educational attainment as the key socioeconomic determinant of midlife mortality, especially among "despair"-related deaths. The present study addresses this gap by using data on 360,146 adults ages 25-64 from restricted-use National Health Interview Survey-Linked Mortality Files (1997-2015; average follow-up 9.87 years) to estimate associations between individuals' occupation and employment status and alcoholic liver disease, suicide, or accidental poisoning mortality risk, net of confounders. Adults in service, manual labor, and transport occupations exhibited two-to-three times the risk of mortality from accidental poisonings compared to those in managerial/administrative positions. Notably, health professionals exhibited the highest accidental poisoning mortality risks. Relative to managerial/administrative professionals, adults not in the labor force had double the suicide risk and nearly seven times the accidental poisoning risk, net of confounders. Unemployed adults and those having never worked also had elevated risks from accidental poisoning mortality. Critically, the fact that individuals' occupations and employment status are independently associated with midlife mortality due to deaths of despair - especially accidental poisoning - highlights the need for measures of socioeconomic status beyond educational attainment and income in understanding rising midlife mortality. Moreover, policies addressing working-aged mortality must target particular workplace contexts and the consequences of unemployment, both of which affect a large and growing segment of the working-aged U.S. population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iliya Gutin
- Department of Sociology and Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, United States of America.
| | - Robert A Hummer
- Department of Sociology and Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, United States of America
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12
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Roche AM, Chapman J, Duraisingam V, Phillips B, Finnane J, Pidd K. Construction workers' alcohol use, knowledge, perceptions of risk and workplace norms. Drug Alcohol Rev 2020; 39:941-949. [PMID: 32350917 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Globally, there is growing concern regarding workers' alcohol use and its implications for health, wellbeing and workplace safety. Male-dominated industries are more susceptible to risky alcohol consumption and its associated harms. This paper investigated the patterns, prevalence and predictors of risky drinking among construction workers. DESIGN AND METHODS Male construction workers (n = 511) completed a survey measuring alcohol-related measures including Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test - Concise (AUDIT-C), which was compared with population data. Hierarchical multiple regression examined alcohol-related knowledge, perception of risk to workplace safety, psychological distress, job stress, general health, quality of life and workplace alcohol culture variables as predictors of risky drinking. RESULTS Prevalence of risky drinking was higher than the national average, particularly for younger (<25 years) and mid-aged (45-54 years) workers. One in six construction workers reported workmates being visibly affected by alcohol in the workplace. Key predictors of risky drinking were perception of alcohol-related risks to workplace safety, general health, alcohol knowledge and descriptive norms regarding workmates' alcohol use. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS These findings provide useful insights into the patterns and predictors of risky drinking in construction and can inform future preventive programs and interventions in high-risk workplaces. In addition to tailoring programs to both young and mid-aged workers, this work highlights the importance of implementing strategies to increase awareness of risks to workplace safety; and the adoption of norms that inhibit the social acceptability of risky drinking behaviour in the wider workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Roche
- National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Janine Chapman
- National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Vinita Duraisingam
- National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Brooke Phillips
- National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia.,Building Trades Group Drug and Alcohol Program, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jim Finnane
- National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ken Pidd
- National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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13
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Rinne H, Laaksonen M, Notkola V. High mortality in manual occupations and the role of alcohol in 2001–15. Eur J Public Health 2020; 30:788-793. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaa017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The aim was to identify specific manual occupations with high mortality and to examine whether there are differences in the role of alcohol in explaining the excess mortality among manual occupations with high all-cause mortality.
Methods
A register-based study of employees aged 30–64 years, followed for mortality 2001–15. Age standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated to compare the mortality rates of manual occupations. The contribution of alcohol-related mortality to excess mortality was obtained by comparing the excess mortality in all deaths and deaths not related to alcohol.
Results
Men had 31 and women 11 manual occupations with SMR statistically significantly over 120 compared with all employees. Mortality rates were highest among building construction labourers (SMR 180) among men and building caretakers (SMR 155) among women. With few exceptions, high mortality was a combination of high alcohol-related and high non-alcohol-related mortality. Among men, the contribution of alcohol-related mortality to the excess all-cause mortality compared with all employees was over 10% in half of the high-mortality occupations. The contribution was highest among welders and flame cutters (50%) and lowest among farmer’s locums (−50%). Among women the contribution was highest among building caretakers (15%).
Conclusions
High-mortality occupations had high mortality even without alcohol-related deaths. However, alcohol-related mortality was generally higher than mortality for other causes; therefore, alcohol-related mortality increased further the excess mortality. Diminishing the alcohol-related mortality would level excess mortality of these occupations but not eliminate it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Rinne
- Rehabilitation Foundation, Helsinki, Finland
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14
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EASL Clinical Practice Guideline: Occupational liver diseases. J Hepatol 2019; 71:1022-1037. [PMID: 31540728 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2019.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A variety of chemicals have been linked to occupational liver diseases, including several solvents and mixtures thereof, pesticides, and metals. Workplace exposures have been associated with virtually the entire spectrum of acute and chronic liver diseases. However, their prevalence is inadequately quantified and their epidemiology limited. Occupational liver diseases may result from high accidental or from prolonged lower level exposures. Whereas the former is uncommon and easily recognised, the latter are relatively more frequent but often overlooked because they may display normal values of conventional markers, have an insidious onset and be asymptomatic or be obfuscated and confounded by concurrent conditions. In addition, specific tests of toxicity are not available, histopathology may not be revealing and the assessment of internal dose of chemicals is usually not decisive. Given these circumstances, the diagnosis of these liver disorders is challenging, one of exclusion and often requires an interdisciplinary approach. These recommendations offer a classification of the type of liver injuries associated with occupational exposures - based in part on the criteria for drug-induced liver injury - a grading of their severity, and the diagnostic and preventive criteria for chemically induced occupational liver disease.
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15
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Svedahl SR, Hilt B, Svendsen K. Work environment factors and respiratory complaints in Norwegian cooks. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2019; 93:205-212. [PMID: 31531780 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-019-01473-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Norwegian cooks exhibit relatively high mortality, particularly from respiratory diseases. Both occupational hazards and lifestyle factors have been suggested as possible explanations. Negative health effects from exposure to cooking fumes are well documented in non-Western populations, and it has been claimed that cooking fumes in Western style cooking might be substantially different. We hypothesise that exposure to cooking fumes contributes to respiratory diseases also in professional cooks in Western countries. The aim of this study was to elucidate if specific work environment factors related to cooking fume exposure are determinants for respiratory morbidity in Norwegian cooks. METHODS We surveyed specific work environment factors and respiratory complaints in 553 subjects that were currently working as skilled cooks. Inclusion was based on the register of people that had graduated as skilled cooks in central Norway between 1988 and 2008. Determinants for the occurrence of respiratory complaints were explored by logistic regression. RESULTS Overall, 17.2% of subjects reported respiratory complaints at work, while 8.1% had chronic bronchitis. Those who performed frying for over half of their workday exhibited an increased odds ratio for having chronic bronchitis of 2.5 (95% CI 1.2-5.3). Using gas for frying and using a fryer in the kitchen were also related to the occurrence of respiratory complaints. CONCLUSIONS This study in Norwegian cooks demonstrates a relationship between the extent of frying and the occurrence of work-related respiratory complaints. Therefore, reducing exposure to cooking fumes could reduce respiratory complaints in cooks, and potentially help alleviate excess morbidity and mortality in this occupation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sindre Rabben Svedahl
- Department of Occupational Medicine, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway. .,Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Bjørn Hilt
- Department of Occupational Medicine, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kristin Svendsen
- Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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16
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Kjaerheim K, Haldorsen T, Lynge E, Martinsen JI, Pukkala E, Weiderpass E, Grimsrud TK. Variation in Nordic Work-Related Cancer Risks after Adjustment for Alcohol and Tobacco. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E2760. [PMID: 30563223 PMCID: PMC6313809 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15122760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Alcohol and tobacco strongly increases the risk of cancers of the tongue, mouth, pharynx, larynx, and oesophagus, and are also established risk factors for cancer of the liver, colon, and rectum. It is well documented that these habits are unequally distributed among occupational groups. Most occupational cohort studies lack information on these potentially important confounders, and may therefore be prone to bias. Aim: The aim of the study is to present Nordic standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for alcohol and tobacco related cancer by occupation, after adjustment for alcohol and tobacco, and to compare to the unadjusted SIRs. Material and Methods: The study is based on the Nordic Occupational Cancer (NOCCA) database. We used confirmatory factor analysis models for simultaneous analysis of the cancer sites related to alcohol and tobacco, to obtain factors that allow for computation of adjusted expected numbers from the reference rates. We then calculated adjusted SIRs for the relevant cancer sites for each occupation. Results: For some occupations and cancers, the changes of risk estimates were striking, from significantly high to significantly low and vice versa. Among Nordic farmers, unadjusted SIRs for cancer of the mouth and oesophagus were 0.56 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51⁻0.61) and 0.67 (CI 0.63⁻0.70), respectively. After adjustment, estimates changed to 1.10 (CI 1.01⁻1.21) and 1.16 (CI 1.10⁻1.22). Unadjusted SIR for pharynx cancer among wood workers was 0.83 (CI 0.75⁻0.91), adjusted SIR was 1.14 (CI 1.03⁻1.25). For larynx cancer, results in the opposite direction were seen: unadjusted SIR for economically inactive was 1.38 (CI 1.31⁻1.46) while the adjusted SIR was 0.91 (CI 0.86⁻0.96). Conclusions: Adjustment for the latent indicators of alcohol and tobacco consumption changed risk estimates for several occupations, gave a less confounded description of risk, and may guide in the identification of true risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tor Haldorsen
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, N-0304 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Elsebeth Lynge
- Nykøbing Falster Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-4800 Nykøbing Falster, Denmark.
| | | | - Eero Pukkala
- Finnish Cancer Registry-Institute for Statistical and epidemiological Cancer Research, Unioninkatu 22, FI-00130 Helsinki, Finland.
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tampere, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Elisabete Weiderpass
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, N-0304 Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway.
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
- Genetic Epidemiology Group, Folkhälsan Research Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Tom K Grimsrud
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, N-0304 Oslo, Norway.
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Xiao J, Huang B, Shen H, Liu X, Zhang J, Zhong Y, Wu C, Hua T, Gao Y. Association between social support and health-related quality of life among Chinese seafarers: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187275. [PMID: 29176809 PMCID: PMC5703501 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seafarers have reported impaired health and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Social support might increase HRQOL, but little is known about this association among Chinese seafarers. The aim of this study was to describe social support and explore its association with HRQOL among Chinese seafarers. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the ports of Nantong and Rugao, China, from April to December 2013. A total of 917 Chinese seafarers were interviewed on social support, mental distress, perceived occupational stress, and HRQOL using the following self-administered questionnaires: The Social Support Rating Scale, Self-rating Depression Scale, Occupational Stress Questionnaire, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire. Hierarchical linear regression modelling was used to analyze the association between seafarers' subjective level of social support and their HRQOL. RESULTS Of the 917 male Chinese seafarers included in the study, 40.7% perceived high levels of social support, and 39.1% were highly satisfied with their overall quality of life (QOL). Hierarchical regression analysis showed significant associations between level of social support and all health dimensions in the WHOQOL-BREF, even after adjusting for depressive symptoms, occupational stress, occupational activities, sleep duration, and other relevant covariates. Compared with the medium or low level social support group, seafarers with a high level of social support had better QOL scores in the general facet health and QOL (β = 2.43, p<0.05), and the physical health (β = 3.23, p<0.001), psychological health (β = 5.56, p<0.001), social relation (β = 6.07, p<0.001), and environment domains (β = 4.27, p<0.001). In addition, depression, occupational stress, occupational activities, and sleep duration were found to be determinants of seafarers' HRQOL. CONCLUSIONS Chinese seafarers have poorer HRQOL than the general population, but social support has a significant positive effect on their HRQOL. Efforts to improve social support should be undertaken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xiao
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Binjun Huang
- Department of Health Promotion, Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huan Shen
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiuli Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Health, Nantong Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yaqing Zhong
- Department of Health Management, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuanli Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianqi Hua
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuexia Gao
- Department of Health Management, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- * E-mail:
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18
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Pulido J, Vallejo F, Alonso-López I, Regidor E, Villar F, de la Fuente L, Domingo-Salvany A, Barrio G. Directly alcohol-attributable mortality by industry and occupation in a Spanish Census cohort of economically active population. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 180:93-102. [PMID: 28886397 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To assess disparities in directly alcohol-attributable (DAA) mortality by industry/occupation in Spain during 2002-2011 and the contribution of different socio-demographic factors, including socioeconomic position, to explain such disparity. METHODS Nationwide cohort study covering 16 million economically active people living in Spain in 2001. Deaths at age 25-64 were analyzed. Subjects were classified by employment status, industry and occupation at baseline. Poisson regression models were built, calculating rate ratios (RRs) compared to all employees or those in the education sector. RESULTS DAA mortality was much higher in the unemployed than in employees (Crude RR: 2.4; 95% CI: 2.3-2.6) and varied widely across industries/occupations. Crude RRs>3.0 (p<0.05) compared to teachers were found in employees in extractive industries/fishing, agriculture/livestock, construction, catering/accommodation and protective services. Socio-demographic factors, especially age, gender and educational attainment contributed more to explain risk disparities than other factors or potential selection bias. However, after exhaustive sociodemographic adjustment, including education attainment and material wealth, a RR>1.33 (p<0.05) remained in unemployed, catering/accommodation employees and unskilled construction workers. RRs were significantly larger in women than men (p<0.05) among mineworkers/fishworkers/sailors (RR=8.6 vs. 1.2) and drivers (RR=3.7 vs. 1.0). CONCLUSIONS The results could be extrapolated to all alcohol-attributable mortality since disparities for other strongly alcohol-related deaths, although smaller, were in the same direction. Given the wide occupational disparities in alcohol-attributable mortality, implementation of special measures to reduce this mortality in the highest risk groups is fully justified. Future research should better characterize the explanatory factors of disparities and their role in the causal chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Pulido
- National School of Public Health, Carlos III Health Institute, Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain; Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Madrid Complutense University, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, E-28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Fernando Vallejo
- National School of Public Health, Carlos III Health Institute, Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ignacio Alonso-López
- National School of Public Health, Carlos III Health Institute, Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Enrique Regidor
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain; Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Madrid Complutense University, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, E-28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Fernando Villar
- National School of Public Health, Carlos III Health Institute, Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Luis de la Fuente
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain; National Epidemiology Center, Carlos III Health Institute, Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Antonia Domingo-Salvany
- IMIM, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Carrer del Dr. Aiguader, 88, E-08003 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Gregorio Barrio
- National School of Public Health, Carlos III Health Institute, Avenida Monforte de Lemos 5, E-28029 Madrid, Spain.
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Slišković A, Penezić Z. Lifestyle factors in Croatian seafarers as relating to health and stress on board. Work 2017; 56:371-380. [PMID: 28339415 DOI: 10.3233/wor-172501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seafaring is characterized by specific stressors and health risks. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this article was to compare the prevalence of various lifestyle factors between the shipping and home environments, and in addition to test the relations between lifestyle factors, perceived stress on board, and health in seafarers. METHODS A total of 530 Croatian seafarers participated in an on-line survey. The questionnaire contained requests for demographic data and a set of questions relating to lifestyle, stress on board, physical health symptoms, and mental health. RESULTS The data showed higher sleep deprivation, higher levels of smoking and unhealthier diet at sea than at home, with prevalence of alcohol consumption and physical exercise being more favourable for the shipping environment. Sleep deprivation, unhealthy diet, lack of physical exercise, and smoking are shown as negative correlates of various measures of health. Stress on board was associated with sleep deprivation and unhealthy diet, and with more unfavourable physical and mental health. CONCLUSIONS The results give practical implications for promoting health in seafarers. Some of the lifestyle factors tested, such as alcohol use, smoking and physical exercise, fall rather under individual control, but others, such as a healthy, balanced diet on board and sleeping hygiene at sea, should be improved by shipping management.
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20
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Downey LA, Tysse B, Ford TC, Samuels AC, Wilson RP, Parrott AC. Psychomotor Tremor and Proprioceptive Control Problems in Current and Former Stimulant Drug Users: An Accelerometer Study of Heavy Users of Amphetamine, MDMA, and Other Recreational Stimulants. J Clin Pharmacol 2017; 57:1330-1337. [PMID: 28425095 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The recreational use of various stimulant drugs has been implicated in the development of movement disorders through dysregulation of the dopaminergic and serotoninergic neurotransmitter systems. The present study investigated psychomotor differences in current and former recreational stimulant drug users compared with nonusing controls. Sixty participants comprised 3 groups: 20 current stimulant drug users (CSUs; 11 men, aged 31.4 ± 9.1 years), 20 former stimulant drug users (FSUs; 5 men, aged 39.1 ± 8.5 years), and 20 nonuser controls (NUCs; 5 men, aged 35.7 ± 6.4 years). Psychomotor arm steadiness for each participant was assessed with a wrist-attached accelerometer during 5 arm positions with eyes open and then eyes closed. Arm-drop of arm position was indicated by the arm longitudinal rotation axis (ALoRA), and tremor was indicated by the overall vector of dynamic body acceleration (VeDBA). Overall, CSUs performed the most poorly on ALoRA (P < .05) and VeDBA indices (P < .05), and FSUs perform almost as poorly on VeDBA indices (P < .05) compared with NUCs. It was concluded that stimulant drug use, primarily MDMA and amphetamines, may result in acute stimulant-induced tremor as well as long-term proprioceptive deficits in terms of arm-droop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke A Downey
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia.,Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Brenda Tysse
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Talitha C Ford
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Angela C Samuels
- Department of Psychology, College of Human and Health Sciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Rory P Wilson
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Andrew C Parrott
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Psychology, College of Human and Health Sciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales, UK
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Liira H, Knight AP, Sim MGB, Wilcox HM, Cheetham S, Aalto MT. Workplace interventions for preventing job loss and other work related outcomes in workers with alcohol misuse. Hippokratia 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Liira
- The University of Western Australia; School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care; 35 Stirling Highway Perth Western Australia Australia 6009
| | - Andrew P Knight
- School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care; The Rural Clinical School of Western Australia; 31 Stirling Terrace PO Box 5771 Albany WA Australia 6330
| | - Moira GB Sim
- Edith Cowan University; School of Medical and Health Sciences; 270 Joondalup Drive Joondalup WA Australia 6027
| | - Helen M Wilcox
- The University of Western Australia; School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care; 35 Stirling Highway Perth Western Australia Australia 6009
| | - Shelley Cheetham
- The University of Western Australia; School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care; 35 Stirling Highway Perth Western Australia Australia 6009
| | - Mauri T Aalto
- University of Tampere; School of Medicine; Medisiinarinkatu 3 Tampere Finland 33014
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22
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Kaila-Kangas L, Koskinen A, Pensola T, Mäkelä P, Leino-Arjas P. Alcohol-induced morbidity and mortality by occupation: a population-based follow-up study of working Finns. Eur J Public Health 2015; 26:116-22. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckv145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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23
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Reijula J, Kjaerheim K, Lynge E, Martinsen JI, Reijula K, Sparén P, Tryggvadottir L, Weiderpass E, Pukkala E. Cancer incidence among waiters: 45 years of follow-up in five Nordic countries. Scand J Public Health 2015; 43:204-11. [PMID: 25564114 DOI: 10.1177/1403494814565130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To study cancer risk patterns among waiters in the Nordic countries. METHODS We identified a cohort of 16,134 male and 81,838 female waiters from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. During the follow-up period from 1961 to 2005, we found that 19,388 incident cancer cases were diagnosed. Standardised incidence ratio (SIR) was defined as the observed number of cancer cases divided by the expected number, based on national age, time period and gender-specific cancer incidence rates in the general population. RESULTS The SIR of all cancers in waiters, in the five countries combined, was 1.46 (95% CI 1.41-1.51) in men and 1.09 (1.07-1.11) in women. In male waiters, the SIR decreased from 1.79 (1.63-1.96) in 1961-1975, to 1.33 (1.26-1.40) in 1991-2005, but remained stable among women. The SIR among male waiters was highest for cancers in the pharynx (6.11; 95% CI 5.02-7.37), oral cavity (4.91; 95% CI 3.81-6.24) and tongue (4.36; 95% CI 3.13-5.92); and in female waiters, in the larynx (2.17; 95% CI 1.63-2.82), oral cavity (1.96; 95% CI 1.60-2.34) and lung (1.89; 95% CI 1.80-1.99). CONCLUSIONS The risk of cancer among waiters was higher than in the general population. The elevated incidence in some cancer sites can likely be explained by higher alcohol consumption, the prevalence of smoking and occupational exposure to tobacco smoke. Hopefully, the incidence of cancer among waiters will decrease in the future, due to the banning of tobacco smoking in restaurants and bars in the Nordic countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jere Reijula
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland University of Helsinki, Hjelt Institute, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | - Kari Reijula
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland University of Helsinki, Hjelt Institute, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pär Sparén
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Elisabete Weiderpass
- Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo, Norway Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden Department of Community Medicine, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway Samfundet Folkhalsan, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eero Pukkala
- Finnish Cancer Registry, Institute for Statistical and Epidemiological Cancer Research, Helsinki, Finland School of Health Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
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Surveillance of hospital contacts among Danish seafarers and fishermen with focus on skin and infectious diseases-a population-based cohort study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 11:11931-49. [PMID: 25411726 PMCID: PMC4245652 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph111111931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Revised: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: A systematic overview of time trends in hospital contacts among Danish seafarers and fishermen by job title and analyses on skin and infectious diseases. Methods: Occupational cohorts with hospital contacts 1994–1998 and 1999–2003. Standardized hospital contact ratios (SHCR) were estimated using national rates and ranked by SHCR size. Results: For non-officers in 1994–1998, infectious diseases had the highest SHCR, followed by neoplastic and endocrinal diseases; in 1999–2003 skin diseases were followed by endocrinal and gastrointestinal diseases. For fishermen in 1994–1998, nervous system, gastrointestinal, and skin diseases had the highest SHCRs; in 1999–2003 it was nervous system, skin, and lymphohematopoietic diseases. As for skin diseases, male fishermen and non-officer seamen generally had increased SHCRs, but engine room personnel specifically had a low SHCR for eczema (eight cases). Fishermen had high SHCRs for tuberculosis in both time periods (six and nine cases, respectively). Non-officer seamen on cargo ships had increased SHCRs for HIV in both time periods and for hepatitis in 1994–1999. Extending the follow-up until 2000 or 2005 showed similar results. Conclusions: Surveillance of seamen’s health gives useful information. The elevated SHCR for HIV infection among non-officers has not declined despite preventive information campaigns. Tuberculosis among fishermen may be due to infection on shore. Skin diseases had very high SHCRs, not due to cutaneous oil exposure.
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Probst C, Roerecke M, Behrendt S, Rehm J. Gender differences in socioeconomic inequality of alcohol-attributable mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Drug Alcohol Rev 2014; 34:267-77. [DOI: 10.1111/dar.12184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Probst
- Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy; Technische Universität Dresden; Dresden Germany
| | - Michael Roerecke
- Social and Epidemiological Research Department; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health; Toronto Canada
| | - Silke Behrendt
- Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy; Technische Universität Dresden; Dresden Germany
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy; Technische Universität Dresden; Dresden Germany
- Social and Epidemiological Research Department; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health; Toronto Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health; University of Toronto; Toronto Canada
- Institute of Medical Science; University of Toronto; Toronto Canada
- Department of Psychiatry; University of Toronto; Toronto Canada
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Norström T, Sundin E, Müller D, Leifman H. Hazardous drinking among restaurant workers. Scand J Public Health 2012; 40:591-5. [PMID: 22949388 DOI: 10.1177/1403494812456634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS We address three research questions pertaining to Swedish restaurant workers: (i) What is the prevalence of hazardous drinking? (ii) How is the consumption of alcohol distributed? (iii) Does the prevention paradox apply? METHODS Data were collected by administering the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) among restaurant workers who attended a 2-day Responsible Beverage Service training in Stockholm during the period from October 2008 to December 2009. The control group comprised a sample representative of the general Swedish population. We restricted the analyses to the age span 18-59 years, which yielded a sample size of 579 for restaurant workers and 434 for the general population. RESULTS The prevalence of hazardous drinking as measured by AUDIT (8+ for men and 6+ for women) was markedly higher among restaurant workers than in the general population. The difference was especially pronounced among females below 30 years of age. We found no difference between restaurant workers and the general population in the distribution of alcohol consumption. About 76% of the drinking problems were found in the lower part of the consumption distribution (bottom 88%), which supports the prevention paradox. CONCLUSIONS Restaurant workers comprise a high-risk group with respect to drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thor Norström
- Swedish Institute for Social Research, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Benavides FG, Ruiz-Forès N, Delclós J, Domingo-Salvany A. [Consumption of alcohol and other drugs by the active population in Spain]. GACETA SANITARIA 2012; 27:248-53. [PMID: 22840438 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaceta.2012.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Revised: 06/09/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe consumption patterns of alcohol and other drugs in the active population in Spain by gender. METHODS Based on 15,082 active persons selected from the Domiciliary Survey of Alcohol and Drugs (Encuesta Domiciliaria de Alcohol y Drogas [EDADES]) 2007, we estimated prevalences for high-risk alcohol consumption (>50 g/day in males, >30 g/day in females), daily intake of tranquilizers, cannabis consumption in the last 30 days, and consumption of any other illegal drug in the last 12 months, by employment status, economic sector and occupational categories. Odds ratios (OR) and their confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated by logistic regression models. RESULTS The following prevalences were found: high-risk alcohol consumption, 3.4%; daily use of tranquilizers, 2.3%; cannabis consumption in the last 30 days, 7.9%; and consumption of any illegal drug in the last 12 months, 11.9%. Except for tranquilizer use, prevalences were higher in men than in women. Consumption of tranquilizers (OR = 1.68; 95%CI: 1.04-2.73), cannabis and other illegal drugs were all higher in unemployed men than in employed men, while only tranquilizer consumption was higher in unemployed women (OR = 1.70; 95% CI: 1.23-2.34). High-risk alcohol consumption was greater among men engaged in the catering, primary production and construction sectors in comparison to manufacturing industries: OR = 1.63 (95% CI: 1.11-2.38), OR = 1.52 (95% CI: 1.04-2.20), and OR = 1.50 (95% CI: 1.10-2.04), respectively. For women, those in catering showed higher consumptions of cannabis (OR = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.28-4.27) and of other illegal drugs (OR = 2.85; 95% CI: 1.71-4.76); the latter were also higher in commerce, transport and administration sectors than in manufacturing industries. CONCLUSIONS These findings could serve as a useful reference for companies wanting to carry out preventive programs, and also for future studies assessing the impact of preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando G Benavides
- Centro de Investigación en Salud Laboral, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, España.
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Hobson J. Swimming with sharks: delivering the occupational health message. Occup Med (Lond) 2012; 62:238-9. [DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqr191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Serdar B, Lee D, Dou Z. Biomarkers of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and DNA damage: a cross-sectional pilot study among roofers in South Florida. BMJ Open 2012; 2:bmjopen-2012-001318. [PMID: 22815468 PMCID: PMC3401830 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2012-001318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The main goal of this pilot study was to assess the technical and logistic feasibility of a future study. The research hypothesis is that occupational exposures to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are associated with increased risk of DNA damage among roofers who work with hot asphalt. DESIGN This is a cross-sectional pilot study. SETTING The study included roofers from four different construction sites in Miami-Dade County, Florida. PARTICIPANTS 19 roofers were recruited (six Hispanics and 13 African-Americans, all male), all of whom were eligible (no history of cancer and no history of chronic diseases of kidneys or liver). All participants provided pre-shift samples and 18 provided post-shift samples. Samples of one participant were excluded from the final analyses as they were considered unreliable. RESULTS Levels of urinary PAH metabolites increased during 6 h of work. Linear regression models of post-shift metabolites included their pre-shift levels, post-shift urinary creatinine levels (for models of 1-OHPyr and 9-OHPhe), and skin burn due to contact with hot asphalt (for models of 1-OHPyr and 1-OHNap). Pre-shift levels of urinary 8-OHdG were not associated with any of the variables considered. For post-shift levels of 8-OHdG, however, post-shift 1-OHPyr (95% CI 0.091 to 0.788) and use of protective gloves (95% CI -1.57 to -0.61) during work explained 86.8% of its variation. Overall, highest levels of urinary PAH metabolites and of 8-OHdG were observed among workers who reported having skin burn and who did not use gloves during work. CONCLUSIONS Urinary 1-OHPyr is a promising predictor of oxidative DNA damage among roofers. Work-related skin burn and use of protective gloves appear to influence PAH exposure and DNA damage levels in this group, suggesting the importance of dermal absorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berrin Serdar
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - David Lee
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Zihong Dou
- PharmaOn, Monmouth Junction, New Jersey, USA
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Forman S. In this issue of Occupational Medicine. Occup Med (Lond) 2010. [DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqq112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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