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van Egmond EEA, van Gorp DAM, Jongen PJ, van der Klink JJL, Reneman MF, Arnoldus EPJ, Beenakker EAC, van Eijk JJJ, Frequin STFM, Gerlach OHH, Hengstman GJD, Moll JWB, Verhagen WIM, Middelkoop HAM, Visser LH, van der Hiele K. Self-reported work productivity in people with multiple sclerosis and its association with mental and physical health. Disabil Rehabil 2022; 44:7096-7105. [PMID: 34607481 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.1981468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to identify mental health, physical health, demographic and disease characteristics relating to work productivity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS In this cross-sectional study, 236 employed people with MS (median age = 42 years, 78.8% female) underwent neurological and neuropsychological assessments. Additionally, they completed questionnaires inquiring about work productivity (presenteeism: reduced productivity while working, and absenteeism: loss of productivity due to absence from work), mental and physical health, demographic and disease characteristics. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were performed with presenteeism and absenteeism as dependent variables, respectively. RESULTS A model with mental and physical health factors significantly predicted presenteeism F(11,202) = 11.33, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.38; a higher cognitive (p < 0.001) and physical impact (p = 0.042) of fatigue were associated with more presenteeism. A model with only mental health factors significantly predicted absenteeism; χ2(11)=37.72, p < 0.001, with R2 = 0.27 (Nagelkerke) and R2 = 0.16 (Cox and Snell). Specifically, we observed that more symptoms of depression (p = 0.041) and a higher cognitive impact of fatigue (p = 0.011) were significantly associated with more absenteeism. CONCLUSIONS In people with MS, both cognitive and physical impact of fatigue are positively related to presenteeism, while symptoms of depression and cognitive impact of fatigue are positively related to absenteeism.Implications for rehabilitationMultiple sclerosis (MS) affects people of working age, significantly interfering with work productivity.Higher cognitive and physical impact of fatigue were associated with more presenteeism in workers with MS.A higher cognitive impact of fatigue and more depressive symptoms were associated with absenteeism in workers with MS.Occupational and healthcare professionals should be aware of the impact of both physical and mental health on work productivity in workers with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elianne E A van Egmond
- Department of Neurology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Institute of Psychology, Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.,National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis A M van Gorp
- Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J Jongen
- MS4 Research Institute, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Community & Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jac J L van der Klink
- Tilburg School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Centre for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Optentia, North West University of South Africa, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
| | - Michiel F Reneman
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Centre for Rehabilitation, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Haren, The Netherlands
| | - Edo P J Arnoldus
- Department of Neurology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jeroen J J van Eijk
- Department of Neurology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital, 'S-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | | | - Oliver H H Gerlach
- Department of Neurology, Zuyderland Medical Centre, Sittard-Geleen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Johan W B Moll
- Department of Neurology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wim I M Verhagen
- Department of Neurology, Canisius-Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Huub A M Middelkoop
- Institute of Psychology, Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Leo H Visser
- Department of Neurology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Karin van der Hiele
- Institute of Psychology, Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
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2
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Mahdinia M, Mohammadfam I, Aliabadi MM, Hamta A, Soltanzadeh A. Linking mental health to safety behavior in construction workers: The mediating effect of work ability and sleep quality. Work 2022; 73:579-589. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-205256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The severity of occupational accidents and injuries in the construction industry is the greatest across all industries. Few studies have examined the causal relationships among physical and psychological variables affecting the safety behavior of construction workers. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the relationships among three factors (metal health, work ability and sleep quality) influencing the safety behavior of construction workers. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 204 workers in civil construction projects in Iran. The data were gathered via self-reporting questionnaires. The acquired data were analyzed by the Smart PLS3 software using structural equation modeling with the partial least squares (PLS) regression approach. RESULTS: The R square revealed an acceptable fineness of the structural model. Similarly, as Q square values were higher than 0.15 for all factors, the predictability of the model was approved. The direct effect of mental health on safety behavior was not significant, but work ability and sleep quality had significant direct effects on safety behavior. Moreover, a decrease in mental health significantly reduced construction workers’ sleep quality and work ability. CONCLUSION: The results of this study prove that sleep quality and work ability mediate the relationship between mental health and safety behavior. The deterioration of construction workers’ mental health can increase the risk of unsafe behavior and occupational injuries. Therefore, appropriate measures need to be taken to maintain and improve the mental health of construction workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Mahdinia
- Occupational Health and Safety Research Center, Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Iraj Mohammadfam
- Center of Excellence for Occupational Health Engineering, Occupational Health and Safety Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mostafa Mirzaei Aliabadi
- Center of Excellence for Occupational Health Engineering, Occupational Health and Safety Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Amir Hamta
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Ahmad Soltanzadeh
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
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3
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van Egmond EEA, van der Hiele K, van Gorp DAM, Jongen PJ, van der Klink JJL, Reneman MF, Beenakker EAC, van Eijk JJJ, Frequin STFM, de Gans K, van Geel BM, Gerlach OHH, Hengstman GJD, Mostert JP, Verhagen WIM, Middelkoop HAM, Visser LH. Work difficulties in people with multiple sclerosis: The role of anxiety, depression and coping. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2022; 8:20552173221116282. [PMID: 36081414 PMCID: PMC9445483 DOI: 10.1177/20552173221116282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Symptoms of anxiety and depression affect the daily life of people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study examined work difficulties and their relationship with anxiety, depression and coping style in people with MS. Methods 219 employed people with MS (median age = 43 years, 79% female) completed questionnaires on anxiety, depression, coping style, demographics and work difficulties, and underwent a neurological examination. Two regression analyses were performed with work difficulties as the dependent variable and either anxiety or depression as continuous independent variables. Coping style, age, gender, educational level, MS-related disability and disease duration were added as additional predictors, as well as interaction terms between coping style and either symptoms of depression or anxiety. Results A significant model was found (F(10,205) = 13.14, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.39) in which anxiety, emotion- and avoidance-oriented coping and MS-related disability were positively related to work difficulties. The analysis of depression resulted in a significant model (F(10,205) = 14.98, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.42) in which depression, emotion- and avoidance-oriented coping and MS-related disability were positively related to work difficulties. None of the interaction effects were significant. Conclusions Work difficulties were positively related to anxiety, depression, emotion- and avoidance-oriented coping and MS-related disability in workers with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- EEA van Egmond
- Department of Neurology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, the Netherlands
- Institute of Psychology, Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - K van der Hiele
- Institute of Psychology, Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - DAM van Gorp
- Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - PJ Jongen
- MS4 Research Institute, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Community & Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - JJL van der Klink
- Tilburg School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Centre for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
- Optentia, North West University of South Africa, Vanderbijlspark, South Africa
| | - MF Reneman
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Centre for Rehabilitation, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Haren, the Netherlands
| | - EAC Beenakker
- Department of Neurology, Medical Centre Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
| | - JJJ van Eijk
- Department of Neurology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital, ‘s-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands
| | - STFM Frequin
- Department of Neurology, St Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
| | - K de Gans
- Department of Neurology, Groene Hart Hospital, the Netherlands
| | - BM van Geel
- Department of Neurology, NoordWest Ziekenhuisgroep, the Netherlands
| | - OHH Gerlach
- Department of Neurology, Zuyderland Medical Centre, Sittard-Geleen, the Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - JP Mostert
- Department of Neurology, Rijnstate Hospital, the Netherlands
| | - WIM Verhagen
- Department of Neurology, Canisius-Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - HAM Middelkoop
- Institute of Psychology, Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Neurology & Neuropsychology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - LH Visser
- Department of Neurology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, the Netherlands
- Department of Care Ethics, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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The Interplay between Multimorbidity, Physical Work Demands and Work Ability: Cross-Sectional Study among 12,879 Senior Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095023. [PMID: 35564418 PMCID: PMC9103436 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Aging increases the risk of chronic diseases, which can challenge the ability to work and thereby push senior workers out of the labour market. This study investigates the association between non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and work ability among workers ≥50 years (senior workers) with physically demanding and sedentary work, respectively. Methods: In the SeniorWorkingLife study, 12,879 senior workers replied to a questionnaire survey on work and health in 2018. Associations between the type and number of NCD and work ability (scale 0−10) were modelled using a general linear model adjusting for potential confounders and combined with model-assisted weights from national registers. Results: A higher number of NCD (multimorbidity) was progressively associated with a lower work ability (trend test, p-value < 0.001). Physical work influenced the association between the number of NCDs and work ability. For specific diseases, mental disorders, including burn-out syndrome (least square mean difference (LSMD): −1.46, 95% CI: −1.61 to −1.32) and stress ( LSMD: −1.18, 95% CI: −1.29 to −1.07), demonstrated a stronger association with a lower work ability compared with somatic diseases, such as back diseases (LSMD: −0.72, 95% CI: −0.80 to −0.64). Conclusions: Multimorbidity was progressively associated with a lower work ability in senior workers, especially among those with physical work.
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Durand MJ, Coutu MF, Tremblay D, Sylvain C, Gouin MM, Bilodeau K, Kirouac L, Paquette MA, Nastasia I, Coté D. Insights into the Sustainable Return to Work of Aging Workers with a Work Disability: An Interpretative Description Study. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2021; 31:92-106. [PMID: 32347441 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-020-09894-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Purpose A sustainable return to work (S-RTW) following prolonged work disability poses particular challenges as workers age. This article provides a synthesis of the factors and issues involved in a S-RTW process for aging workers following such a disability. Methods Using interpretive description methods, a critical review was conducted of the literature specifying return-to-work factors and issues for aging workers with regard to four major causes of work disability (musculoskeletal disorders, common mental disorders, cancer or other chronic diseases). The initial review concerned the 2000-2016 literature, and was subsequently updated for November 2016-December 2018. To further explore and contextualise the results of this literature review, four focus groups were held with stakeholders, representing the workplace, insurance, and healthcare systems and workers. Qualitative thematic analysis was performed. Results Fifty-five articles were reviewed and 35 stakeholders participated in the focus groups. Returning to work and staying at work appear to be particularly challenging for aging workers, who face notable issues and stigma concerning their ability to meet work demands, as well as their mobilisation and engagement in these processes. Such findings echo in many ways the main assertions of the literature on aging at work, except those regarding the transformation of capacities with aging, which is not mentioned in relation to workers with a work disability. The influence of healthcare and compensation systems on the S-RTW of aging work-disabled workers has also received little attention to date. Conclusions The results underscore that aging workers with a disability are frequently vulnerable in terms of their health or their jobs. Intersectoral efforts are needed to remedy this situation to keep them at work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-José Durand
- Centre d'action en prévention et réadaptation des incapacités au travail (CAPRIT), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada.
- Centre de recherche Charles-Le Moyne-Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean sur les innovations en santé (CR-CSIS), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada.
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada.
| | - Marie-France Coutu
- Centre d'action en prévention et réadaptation des incapacités au travail (CAPRIT), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
- Centre de recherche Charles-Le Moyne-Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean sur les innovations en santé (CR-CSIS), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
| | - Dominique Tremblay
- Centre de recherche Charles-Le Moyne-Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean sur les innovations en santé (CR-CSIS), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
| | - Chantal Sylvain
- Centre d'action en prévention et réadaptation des incapacités au travail (CAPRIT), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
- Centre de recherche Charles-Le Moyne-Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean sur les innovations en santé (CR-CSIS), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
| | - Marie-Michelle Gouin
- Department of Management and Human Resource Management, School of Management, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Boulevard de l'Université, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Karine Bilodeau
- Faculty of Nursing, Université de Montréal, Station Centre-ville, PO Box 6128, Montreal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Laurie Kirouac
- Department of Industrial Relations, Université Laval, 1025 avenue des Sciences-Humaines, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Marie-Andrée Paquette
- Centre d'action en prévention et réadaptation des incapacités au travail (CAPRIT), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
- Centre de recherche Charles-Le Moyne-Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean sur les innovations en santé (CR-CSIS), Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
| | - Iuliana Nastasia
- Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 Boulevard De Maisonneuve West, Montreal, QC, H3A 3C2, Canada
| | - Daniel Coté
- Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 Boulevard De Maisonneuve West, Montreal, QC, H3A 3C2, Canada
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Itani O, Kaneita Y, Harano S, Tokiya M, Otsuka Y, Matsumoto Y, Nakagome S, Kinoshita Y. Psychometric Properties of a New Simplified Scale to Assess the Quality of Workers' Rest and Recreation on Their Days Off. Yonago Acta Med 2021; 64:67-79. [PMID: 33642905 DOI: 10.33160/yam.2021.02.010] [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: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Background In this study, we developed and tested the validity and reliability of the 12-item Rest and Recreation Quality Scale (RRQ-Scale) for Workers as a new scale capable of conveniently assessing the quality of workers' days off, that is, their rest and recreation. Methods Participants included 756 employees (694 men, 62 women, mean age ± SD= 44.7 ± 13.5, age range = 18-81) of 26 manufacturing-related companies located in Oita Prefecture, Japan. We analyzed the factorial validity of the scale's score distribution and its criterion-related validity and reliability (Cronbach's coefficient α), compared to MOS 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey version 2.0 (SF-36v2) and the generalized self-efficacy scale. Participants responded to the 12 questions on 4-point scales; these were summed to calculate the total score (score range: 12-48 points). Results The smallest and largest mean ± SD of the questions were 2.53 ± 0.89 and 3.21 ± 0.74, respectively, which are within the possible score range (1-4, implying the absence of floor and ceiling effects). A confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the goodness of fit of the higher-order factor analysis model was satisfactory (GFI = 0.955), confirming factorial validity. In addition, consistent with the theoretical predictions, the total score exhibited statistically significant positive correlations with the components of the SF-36v2; physical component summary (PCS): rs = 0.193, P < 0.001, mental component summary (MCS): rs = 0.369, P < 0.001, and role/social Component Summary (RCS): rs = 0.115, P = 0.002. This confirmed criterion-related validity. Further, the overall reliability of the scale was high; α = 0.877. Conclusion In sum, the score distribution, validity, and reliability of the RRQ-Scale for workers were good, indicating a high degree of practicality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Itani
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ward, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Kaneita
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ward, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Satoru Harano
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ward, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Mikiko Tokiya
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu-city, Oita 879-5593, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Otsuka
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ward, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Yuuki Matsumoto
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ward, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Sachi Nakagome
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ward, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Yu Kinoshita
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ward, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
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Savinainen M, Seitsamo J, Joensuu M. The association between changes in functional capacity and work ability among unemployed individuals. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2020; 93:503-511. [PMID: 31838734 PMCID: PMC7118035 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-019-01498-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Unemployment has multidimensional effects. This study investigated how the changes in functioning are associated with the changes in perceived work ability among unemployed people. METHODS The participants were clients in projects funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) targeted for unemployed individuals. They answered a questionnaire covering work ability (Work Ability Score) and functioning (cognitive, psychological and social functioning, physical condition and everyday activities) and perceived health at the beginning and at the end of the project (mean follow-up 173 days). The study included data from unemployed respondents (N = 502) aged 19-64 years. RESULTS Overall, during the follow-up, both work ability and different aspects of functioning improved, excluding physical condition. Changes in cognitive and psychological functioning, physical condition and everyday activities were significantly associated with the changes in work ability. The physical condition had the strongest association with the changes in work ability. Short unemployment time and especially good perceived health improved WAS over time. Age, gender and follow-up time were not associated with changes in work ability. CONCLUSIONS Maintaining or improving health and functioning and shortening the length of unemployment appeared to be important issues in enhancing work ability and thus increasing re-employability potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Savinainen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, 33540, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Jorma Seitsamo
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Matti Joensuu
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
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Skovlund SV, Bláfoss R, Sundstrup E, Andersen LL. Association between physical work demands and work ability in workers with musculoskeletal pain: cross-sectional study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2020; 21:166. [PMID: 32171283 PMCID: PMC7071559 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-020-03191-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Musculoskeletal pain is common in the working population and may affect the work ability, especially among those with high physical work demands. This study investigated the association between physical work demands and work ability in workers with musculoskeletal pain. Methods Workers with physically demanding jobs (n = 5377) participated in the Danish Work Environment Cohort Study in 2010. Associations between physical work ability and various physical work demands were modeled using cumulative logistic regression analyses while controlling for possible confounders. Results In the fully adjusted model, bending and twisting/turning of the back more than a quarter of the workday (reference: less than a quarter of the workday) was associated with higher odds of lower work ability in workers with low-back pain (OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.09–1.74) and neck-shoulder pain (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.01–1.64). When adding up the different types of demands, being exposed to two or more physical work demands for more than a quarter of the workday was consistently associated with lower work ability. Conclusions Work that involves high demands of the lower back seems especially problematic in relation to work ability among physical workers with musculoskeletal pain. Regardless of the specific type of physical work demand, being exposed to multiple physical work demands for more than a quarter of the workday was also associated with lower work ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Venge Skovlund
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Rúni Bláfoss
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Research Unit for Muscle Physiology and Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Emil Sundstrup
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars L Andersen
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Sport Science, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Predictors of Work Ability in Individuals With a Common Mental Disorder: Is There an Effect of Metacognitive Beliefs Among Poor Physical Health and Emotional Distress? BEHAVIOUR CHANGE 2019. [DOI: 10.1017/bec.2019.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractWork ability is a prospective predictor of sick leave, disability pension and unemployment, and has been defined as the balance between human resources and the demands of work, taking into consideration that illness is not equivalent to work disability. In the present study we set out to explore predictors of work ability in a sample of individuals with common mental disorders. In particular, we were interested in exploring metacognitive beliefs as a potential predictor of work ability, as Wells’ (2009) metacognitive model of psychological disorder suggests that metacognitions may be an underlying factor in psychological vulnerability generally, and they have been associated with work status in previous studies. One hundred and seventy-seven individuals participated in an online survey and completed a battery of self-report questionnaires. Several factors correlated with reduced work ability: physical disorders, emotional distress symptoms and metacognitive beliefs. We found that confidence in memory predicted work ability even when controlling for gender/age, number of physical disorders, and levels of anxiety and depression symptoms. This finding suggest that metacognitions of poor memory performance are associated with low work ability among those with common mental disorders, and implies that these should be targeted in treatment with a view to increasing work ability and thus potentially facilitate return to work.
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A psychosocial theory of sick leave put to the test in the European Working Conditions Survey 2010-2015. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2019; 93:229-242. [PMID: 31599338 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-019-01477-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In the present investigation a psychosocial theory of sick leave is proposed which integrates work-related determinants, health effects of particular work characteristics, and workers' health status. In addition, the theory explicitly formulates a series of mediators and moderators of the associations between work-related determinants and sick leave. On the basis of the theoretical assumptions and previous research findings, a series of research hypotheses are investigated with survey data. METHODS The study is based on data from the European Working Conditions Survey 2010 and 2015 (n = 59,790). The research hypotheses are investigated by means of generalised linear mixed models within the framework of hierarchical Bayesian regression models and Markov Chain algorithms. The theory is assessed by estimating three so-called hurdle models, which take into account the excess zeros usually observed in sick leave rates. RESULTS In general, the findings provide evidence of the adequacy of the theory explaining the observed variation of sick-leave rates. Several biomechanical and psychosocial characteristics of the working environment, occupation, age, and the subjective assessment of health status were found to be strongly associated with both the likelihood of being in sick leave and the length of sick-leave spells. CONCLUSIONS The theory and the findings of the present study may serve as a basis for the development and implementation of occupational health interventions aiming to reduce sick-leave rates in organisations.
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11
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Cotrim TP, Ribeiro C, Teles J, Reis V, Guerreiro MJ, Janicas AS, Candeias S, Costa M. Monitoring Work Ability Index During a Two-Year Period Among Portuguese Municipality Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E3674. [PMID: 31574922 PMCID: PMC6801601 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16193674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In Portugal, little is known about the work ability profiles of municipal workers and their changes during working life. In order to characterize and understand the changes in work ability among municipal workers, a prospective study was designed to begin in 2015 in the municipality of Sintra, in the surroundings of Lisbon, and to collect data every two years. The present paper aims at characterizing the changes in the work ability of those workers between 2015 and 2017 and to identify the main predictors. Data collection was based on a questionnaire that encompassed socio-demographic data, the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire II (COPSOQ II), the Nordic questionnaire adapted, and the Work Ability Index (WAI). In this two-year period, the work ability of municipal workers decreased and the main predictive factors were age, lower-back pain, negative health perception, the presence of burnout, and making manual efforts. Still, there were factors that act as positive predictors of an excellent work ability, such as having training in the previous two years, a good sense of community at work, and a favorable meaning of work. In summary, the intervention strategies in the work field should take into consideration the main predictors of work ability that are relevant for each organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Patrone Cotrim
- Ergonomics Laboratory, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal.
- CIAUD, Faculdade de Arquitetura, Universidade de Lisboa, 1349-063 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Camila Ribeiro
- Ergonomics Laboratory, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Júlia Teles
- Ergonomics Laboratory, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal.
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Vítor Reis
- Health and Safety Department, Municipality of Sintra, 2710-437 Sintra, Portugal.
| | - Maria João Guerreiro
- Health and Safety Department, Municipality of Sintra, 2710-437 Sintra, Portugal.
| | - Ana Sofia Janicas
- Health and Safety Department, Municipality of Sintra, 2710-437 Sintra, Portugal.
| | - Susana Candeias
- Health and Safety Department, Municipality of Sintra, 2710-437 Sintra, Portugal.
| | - Margarida Costa
- Health and Safety Department, Municipality of Sintra, 2710-437 Sintra, Portugal.
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12
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Kadijk EA, van den Heuvel S, Ybema JF, Leijten FRM. The Influence of Multi-morbidity on the Work Ability of Ageing Employees and the Role of Coping Style. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2019; 29:503-513. [PMID: 30178434 PMCID: PMC6675751 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-018-9811-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose With an ageing workforce, employees are increasingly confronted with multi-morbidity. Especially physical and mental health problems often occur together. This study aims to (i) explore the effect of multi-morbidity on work ability of ageing employees, more specifically the effects of the number of health problems and the combination of physical and mental health problems, and to (ii) explore to what extent the effects of physical and mental health problems on work ability are explained by applying differing coping styles. Methods A 1 year follow up study (2012-2013) was conducted among 7175 employees aged 45-64 years. Linear regression analyses were conducted to examine longitudinal relationships between multi-morbidity, coping styles and work ability. To determine whether coping styles mediate the effects of multi-morbidity on work ability, Sobel tests were conducted. Results A higher number of health problems was related to poorer work ability, but this negative effect stabilized from three health problems onwards. The combination of physical and mental health problem(s) was more strongly related to poorer work ability than only physical health problems. The negative relation between physical health problems and work ability was partly suppressed by active coping, while the negative relation between the combination of physical and mental health problem(s) on work ability was partly explained by avoidant coping. Conclusions Ageing employees with multi-morbidity have a reduced work ability, especially when mental health problems are present. The greater negative effects of the combination of physical and mental health problems on work ability are partially due to unfavorable coping styles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emelien A Kadijk
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, P.O.Box 1738, 3000 DR, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Swenneke van den Heuvel
- Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research TNO, Schipholweg 77, 2316 ZL, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Fekke Ybema
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3581 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Fenna R M Leijten
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, P.O.Box 1738, 3000 DR, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Ćwirlej-Sozańska A, Wilmowska-Pietruszyńska A, Sozański B, Wiśniowska-Szurlej A. Assessment of disability and incidence of chronic diseases in employed and unemployed people aged 60–70 years living in Poland: a cross-sectional study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2018; 26:210-218. [DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2018.1521609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bernard Sozański
- Centre for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Poland
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Weber J, Müller A, Stiller M, Borchart D. Prognostic effects of selection, optimization and compensation strategies on work ability: results from the representative lidA cohort study on work, age, and health in Germany. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2018; 91:1061-1071. [PMID: 30132132 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-018-1348-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Regarding the increased need for the retention of older employees in the workforce, this study investigates whether there are main and interactive longitudinal effects of selection, optimization, compensation and working conditions according to the job demand-control model on work ability in older employees. METHODS Longitudinal data of computer-assisted personal interviews with one follow-up after 3 years of 3961 participants (born in 1959 and 1965) of the representative German lidA cohort study was used. Multiple linear regressions were performed, analyzing prospective main and interactive effects of selection, optimization, compensation and working conditions during baseline on perceived work ability at follow-up. RESULTS Regarding selection, optimization and compensation, only compensation had a positive, but weak effect on work ability. Working conditions were more strongly related to work ability: decision authority and skill discretion had independent positive and job demands had independent negative effects on work ability. One interaction effect was observed between loss-based selection and decision authority, such that they mutually enhanced their positive effects on work ability. Only few and weak interactions among the sub-strategies, selection, optimization and compensation, were observed. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that especially favorable working conditions in terms of high job control and low job demands, but also compensation might help older employees to maintain work ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannette Weber
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Andreas Müller
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Psychology, Work- and Organizational Psychology, University Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 2, 45141, Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Stiller
- Department of Occupational Health Science, School of Mechanical Engineering and Safety Engineering, University of Wuppertal, Gaußstr. 20, 42119, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Daniela Borchart
- Department of Occupational Health Science, School of Mechanical Engineering and Safety Engineering, University of Wuppertal, Gaußstr. 20, 42119, Wuppertal, Germany
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Yoshida M, Miki A. [Factors Related to Presenteeism in Young and Middle-aged Nurses]. SANGYO EISEIGAKU ZASSHI = JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2018; 60:31-40. [PMID: 29386426 DOI: 10.1539/sangyoeisei.17-019-b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Presenteeism is considered to be not only a work-related stressor but also a factor involved in the development of workaholism and error proneness, which is often described as careless. Additionally, increasing health issues arising from aging suggest the possibility that presenteeism in middle-aged nurses is different than that in young ones. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify and tease apart factors involved in presenteeism among young and middle-aged nurses. METHODS An anonymous self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted among 2,006 nurses working at 10 hospitals. In total, 761 nurses aged <40 years and 536 nurses aged ≥40 years were enrolled in this study. Work Impairment Scores (WIS) on the Japanese version of the Stanford Presenteeism Scale were measured for presenteeism. Job stressors, workaholism, and error proneness were measured for related factors. Multiple regression analysis was conducted after determining the WIS as the dependent variable and related factors as independent variables. RESULTS Overall, 70.8% of the young nurses reported health problems compared to 82.5% of the middle-aged nurses. However, WIS in young nurses was significantly higher than that in middle-aged ones (p < 0.001). WIS in young nurses showed a significant relationship with the degree of stressors, "difficulty of work" (β = 0.28, p < 0.001) and tendency to "work excessively" (β = 0.18, p < 0.001), which is a subscale of workaholism, error proneness of "action slips" (β = 0.14, p < 0.01) and "cognitive narrowing" (β = 0.11, p < 0.05). Conversely, WIS in middle-aged nurses showed a significant relationship with "cognitive narrowing" (β = 0.29, p < 0.001) and to "work excessively" (β = 0.17, p < 0.001), the degree of stressors on "difficulty of work" (β = 0.12, p < 0.05) and "lack of communication" (β = 0.13, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION It was clarified that the increased health problems of middle-aged nurses does not necessarily lower their working capacity. Also, compared to young nurses, the degree of failing tendency, rather than the degree of job stressors, was more related to presenteeism for middle-aged nurses. It can be considered that middle-aged nurses simply realize that their working ability is hindered because of incidents resulting from attention narrowing. As fatigue and state of tension tend to cause narrowing of attention, it may be necessary to reduce such risks and adjust work environments so mistakes can be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akiko Miki
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba
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16
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van den Berg S, Burdorf A, Robroek SJW. Associations between common diseases and work ability and sick leave among health care workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2017; 90:685-693. [PMID: 28550420 PMCID: PMC5583264 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-017-1231-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigates whether common diseases, i.e., musculoskeletal diseases (MSD), cardiovascular diseases (CVD), mental disorders (MD), and respiratory diseases (RD), influence work ability and sick leave and whether lifestyle-related factors, and psychosocial and physical work-related factors are associated with low work ability and sick leave. METHODS In a cross-sectional study among 8364 Dutch health care employees, self-reported information was acquired concerning common diseases, lifestyle-related factors, psychosocial and physical work-related factors, work ability, and sick leave. Logistic regression analyses were performed to describe the associations between common diseases with low work ability and sick leave, and to evaluate differences in associations between lifestyle-related and work-related factors with low work ability and sick leave among healthy employees and employees with common diseases. RESULTS Employees with MD (OR 6.35), CVD (OR 2.63), MSD (OR 2.62), and RD (OR 2.11) had a higher risk of low work ability compared to healthy employees. Workers with common diseases also reported more often sick leave (ORs > 1.60), in particular long-term sick leave (>25 days). Multimorbidity increased both the occurrence of low work ability and sick leave. Unfavourable psychosocial work-related factors were associated with low work ability and sick leave regardless of health status. Physical work-related factors and lifestyle factors were less consistently associated with low work ability and sick leave. CONCLUSIONS Common diseases, and foremost mental disorders, were related to both low work ability and sick leave. To maintain or improve work ability and prevent sick leave, interventions that promote a healthy psychosocial work environment are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie van den Berg
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alex Burdorf
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Suzan J W Robroek
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Leijon O, Balliu N, Lundin A, Vaez M, Kjellberg K, Hemmingsson T. Effects of psychosocial work factors and psychological distress on self-assessed work ability: A 7-year follow-up in a general working population. Am J Ind Med 2017; 60:121-130. [PMID: 27779327 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22670] [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] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toinvestigate the effects of psychosocial work factors (PWF) and psychological distress (PD) on self-assessed work ability. METHODS This follow-up study included 7,810 individuals (55%women) with good work ability at baseline. PWFandPD (measured by GHQ-12) were assessed at baseline and work ability at 7-year follow-up. Effects of PWF and PD on work ability were analyzed by logistic regression, odds ratios (OR) with 95% CI, and by mediation analysisusing 4-way decomposition. RESULTS Low support was associated with poor work ability for both women and men (OR 1.78 and 1.89). For men, also low skill discretion was associated with poor work ability (OR 2.07). For both women and men, PD was associated with poor work ability (OR 3.41 and 1.84). PD did not act as an intermediate variablein the association between PWF and work ability. CONCLUSION Strategies for sustainable work ability should focus on both working conditions and health factors. Am. J. Ind. Med. 60:121-130, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ola Leijon
- Swedish Social Insurance Inspectorate; Stockholm Sweden
- Institute of Environmental Medicine; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Natalja Balliu
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Stockholm County Council; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Andreas Lundin
- Department of Public Health Sciences; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Marjan Vaez
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Katarina Kjellberg
- Institute of Environmental Medicine; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Stockholm County Council; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Tomas Hemmingsson
- Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs (SoRAD); Stockholm University; Stockholm Sweden
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18
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Appraisal of work ability in relation to job-specific health requirements in ambulance workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2016; 90:123-131. [PMID: 27807622 PMCID: PMC5215253 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-016-1181-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To gain insight into which job-specific health requirements relate to work ability, the following two research questions were formulated: Which job-specific health requirements are associated with the appraisal of work ability in ambulance drivers and paramedics? How are appraisals of physical and mental work ability associated with the appraisal of overall work ability in ambulance drivers and paramedics? Method Workers Health Surveillance cross-sectional data of 506 ambulance workers (236 drivers and 270 paramedics) were used. The tests for specific job requirements were divided into six categories. Work ability was appraised as overall, physical and mental/emotional. Multiple linear stepwise regression analyses were used to model the associations. Results Outcomes in ‘raised alertness and judgment ability’ (R2 = 0.09), ‘job-specific physical abilities’ (R2 = 0.10) and ‘emotional peak load’ (R2 = 0.07) significantly explained appraised overall, physical and mental/emotional work ability. Physical and mental/emotional work ability together explained 48.3% of the variance of overall work ability. The explained variance by physical and mental/emotional work ability was almost 4% higher in drivers than in paramedics. Conclusions Overall work ability was significantly explained by outcomes in ‘raised alertness and judgment ability’ and ‘emotional peak load.’ Physical work ability was significantly explained by ‘job-specific physical abilities’ and ‘raised alertness and judgment ability’ outcomes, while ‘emotional peak load’ and ‘raised alertness and judgment ability’ outcomes significantly explained mental/emotional work ability. Physical and mental/emotional work ability explains the same proportion of variance in overall work ability.
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Nevanperä N, Seitsamo J, Ala-Mursula L, Remes J, Hopsu L, Auvinen J, Tammelin T, Järvelin MR, Laitinen J. Perceived Work Ability in the Light of Long-Term and Stress-Related Unhealthy Behaviors-a Prospective Cohort Study. Int J Behav Med 2016; 23:179-89. [PMID: 26500090 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-015-9512-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most of the few studies that exist on the longitudinal associations between health behaviors and work ability target to single health behaviors. PURPOSE To investigate how lifetime clusters of unhealthy behaviors associate with perceived work ability in early midlife. METHODS The study population consisted of 46-year-old men and women (n = 3107) born in Northern Finland in 1966. Their current perceived work ability compared to lifetime best, and their unhealthy behaviors (physical inactivity, smoking, and alcohol consumption) were assessed by questionnaires. We determined clusters of unhealthy behaviors at the ages of 14, 31, and 46 and created lifetime development trajectories of health behaviors. We also assessed stress-related eating and drinking at the ages of 31 and 46. Cross-tabulations and multivariate logistic regression models were used to investigate the associations between clusters of health behaviors, stress-related eating and drinking, and work ability at 46 years. The analyses were controlled for basic education and physical strenuousness of work, psychosocial job characteristics, perceived work ability, and BMI (kg/m(2)) at 31 years. RESULTS Four health behavior trajectories emerged: always healthy, moderate (reference group), deteriorated. and always unhealthy. Among men, always unhealthy behaviors [OR (95 % confidence interval) 2.81 (1.35, 5.86)], and among women, deteriorated health behaviors [1.67 (1.07, 2.58)] associated with poor perceived work ability at 46 years. In addition, stress-related eating and drinking associated independently with poor perceived work ability at 46 years [men 2.58 (1.62, 4.12) and women 2.48 (1.70, 3.61)]. CONCLUSION Long-lasting and stress-related unhealthy behaviors increase the risk of poor work ability in midlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Nevanperä
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Jorma Seitsamo
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Jouko Remes
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Leila Hopsu
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Auvinen
- Institute of Health Sciences, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Unit of Primary Care, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Tuija Tammelin
- LIKES-Research Center for Sport and Health Sciences, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Marjo-Riitta Järvelin
- Institute of Health Sciences, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Imperial College London, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and MRC Health Protection Agency (HPA) Centre for Environment and Health, London, UK.,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Unit of Primary Care, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jaana Laitinen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland
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Duijts S, Bleiker E, Paalman C, van der Beek A. A behavioural approach in the development of work-related interventions for cancer survivors: an exploratory review. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2016; 26. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S.F.A. Duijts
- Department of Public and Occupational Health; EMGO+ Institute for Health and Care Research; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology; The Netherlands Cancer Institute; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - E.M.A. Bleiker
- Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology; The Netherlands Cancer Institute; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - C.H. Paalman
- Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology; The Netherlands Cancer Institute; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - A.J. van der Beek
- Department of Public and Occupational Health; EMGO+ Institute for Health and Care Research; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Research Center for Insurance Medicine AMC-UMCG-UWV-VUmc; Amsterdam The Netherlands
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21
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Kenny GP, Groeller H, McGinn R, Flouris AD. Age, human performance, and physical employment standards. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2016; 41:S92-S107. [DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2015-0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The proportion of older workers has increased substantially in recent years, with over 25% of the Canadian labour force aged ≥55 years. Along with chronological age comes age-related declines in functional capacity associated with impairments to the cardiorespiratory and muscular systems. As a result, older workers are reported to exhibit reductions in work output and in the ability to perform and/or sustain the required effort when performing work tasks. However, research has presented some conflicting views on the consequences of aging in the workforce, as physically demanding occupations can be associated with improved or maintained physical function. Furthermore, the current methods for evaluating physical function in older workers often lack specificity and relevance to the actual work tasks, leading to an underestimation of physical capacity in the older worker. Nevertheless, industry often lacks the appropriate information and/or tools to accommodate the aging workforce, particularly in the context of physical employment standards. Ultimately, if appropriate workplace strategies and work performance standards are adopted to optimize the strengths and protect against the vulnerability of the aging workers, they can perform as effectively as their younger counterparts. Our aim in this review is to evaluate the impact of different individual (including physiological decline, chronic disease, lifestyle, and physical activity) and occupational (including shift work, sleep deprivation, and cold/heat exposure) factors on the physical decline of older workers, and therefore the risk of work-related injuries or illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glen P. Kenny
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Herbert Groeller
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Ryan McGinn
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
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22
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Reeuwijk KG, Robroek SJW, Niessen MAJ, Kraaijenhagen RA, Vergouwe Y, Burdorf A. The Prognostic Value of the Work Ability Index for Sickness Absence among Office Workers. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0126969. [PMID: 26017387 PMCID: PMC4446207 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0126969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The work ability index (WAI) is a frequently used tool in occupational health to identify workers at risk for a reduced work performance and for work-related disability. However, information about the prognostic value of the WAI to identify workers at risk for sickness absence is scarce. OBJECTIVES To investigate the prognostic value of the WAI for sickness absence, and whether the discriminative ability differs across demographic subgroups. METHODS At baseline, the WAI (score 7-49) was assessed among 1,331 office workers from a Dutch financial service company. Sickness absence was registered during 12-months follow-up and categorised as 0 days, 0<days<5, 5≤days<15, and ≥15 days in one year. Associations between WAI and sickness absence were estimated by multinomial regression analyses. Discriminative ability of the WAI was assessed by the Area Under the Curve (AUC) and Ordinal c-index (ORC). Test characteristics were determined for dichotomised outcomes. Additional analyses were performed for separate WAI dimensions, and subgroup analyses for demographic groups. RESULTS A lower WAI was associated with sickness absence (≥15 days vs. 0 days: per point lower WAI score OR=1.27; 95%CI 1.21-1.33). The WAI showed reasonable ability to discriminate between categories of sickness absence (ORC=0.65; 95%CI 0.63-0.68). Highest discrimination was found for comparing workers with ≥15 sick days with 0 sick days (AUC=0.77) or with 1-5 sick days (AUC=0.69). At the cut-off for poor work ability (WAI≤27) the sensitivity to identify workers at risk for ≥15 sick days was 7.5%, the specificity 99.6%, and the positive predictive value 82%. The performance was similar across demographic subgroups. CONCLUSIONS The WAI could be used to identify workers at high risk for prolonged sickness absence. However, due to low sensitivity many workers will be missed. Hence, additional factors are required to better identify workers at highest risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suzan J. W. Robroek
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Yvonne Vergouwe
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alex Burdorf
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Measuring illness beliefs in patients with lower extremity injuries: reliability and validity of the Dutch version of the Somatic Pre-Occupation and Coping questionnaire (SPOC-NL). Injury 2015; 46:308-14. [PMID: 25441575 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2014.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Positive coping strategies, illness perceptions and recovery expectations are associated with better clinical outcomes and earlier return to work after injuries. The Somatic Pre-Occupation and Coping (SPOC) questionnaire captures illness beliefs and coping towards recovery of physical function and return to work after surgical treatment of tibial shaft fractures. The aim of this study was to translate and culturally adapt the SPOC into Dutch (SPOC-NL) and evaluate its reliability and validity in patients with lower extremity injuries. MATERIALS The SPOC-NL contains four subscales: Somatic complaints, Coping, Energy, and Optimism. Patients treated for lower extremity injuries (N=106) completed the SPOC-NL, Short Form-36 and Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA-NL) questionnaire, and reported their current work status and self-perceived work ability. To assess test-retest reliability, 56 patients completed the SPOC-NL for a second time two weeks after the first administration of the SPOC-NL. We calculated Cronbach's Alpha, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and G coefficients to measure internal consistency and overall reliability, and used the Bland and Altman method to assess bias between test and retest SPOC-NL scores. To determine construct validity, we explored 16 a priori hypotheses regarding correlations between SPOC-NL scores and subscale scores and SF-36, SMFA-NL, work status and work ability. RESULTS Internal consistency was good to excellent, with Cronbach's Alpha values ranging between 0.79 and 0.94 and G coefficients ranging between 0.77 and 0.95. Test-retest reliability was also good, since high ICCs (0.72-0.91) and G coefficients (0.82-0.94) were found. Construct validity of the SPOC-NL was good, as 75% of the predefined hypotheses were confirmed. Compared to participants who were on sick leave or receiving disability benefits, participants with a paid job had significantly higher scores on the total score and the subscales Somatic complaints and Energy of the SPOC-NL. Participants with high work ability also had significantly higher scores on the total score and all subscales than participants with low work ability. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The SPOC-NL is a reliable and valid measure for the assessment of illness beliefs and coping towards recovery and it is strongly related to work status and self-perceived ability to work in patients with lower extremity injuries.
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Nabe-Nielsen K, Thielen K, Nygaard E, Thorsen SV, Diderichsen F. Demand-specific work ability, poor health and working conditions in middle-aged full-time employees. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2014; 45:1174-1180. [PMID: 24629345 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2014.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the prevalence of reduced demand-specific work ability, its association with age, gender, education, poor health, and working conditions, and the interaction between poor health and working conditions regarding reduced demand-specific work ability. We used cross-sectional questionnaire data from 3381 full-time employees responding to questions about vocational education, job demands and social support (working conditions), musculoskeletal pain (MSP) and major depression (MD) (poor health) and seven questions about difficulty managing different job demands (reduced demand-specific work ability). Reduced demand-specific work ability varied from 9% to 19% among the 46-year old and from 11% to 21% among the 56-year old. Age was associated with two, gender with four, and education with all measures of reduced demand-specific work ability. MSP was associated with four and MD was associated with six measures of reduced demand-specific work ability. We found no interaction between working conditions and poor health regarding reduced demand-specific work ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Nabe-Nielsen
- Dept. of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Karsten Thielen
- Dept. of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Else Nygaard
- Dept. of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Sannie Vester Thorsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Finn Diderichsen
- Dept. of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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