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Proctor C, Hopkins N, Reece C. The Intersection of Gender and Occupational Roles in Agriculture: Stress, Resilience, and Alcohol Behaviors of US Farmers. J Occup Environ Med 2024; 66:286-292. [PMID: 38234218 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000003049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purposes of this study were to explore behavioral and mental health outcomes among a sample of farmers living in the United States and to compare differences between male and female farmers. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey was distributed within the farming community by researchers, farming consultants, and community partners. χ 2 and analysis or variance analyses were used to explore relationships between variables of interest. RESULTS Female survey respondents reported significantly higher perceived stress and significantly lower resilience than their male counterparts. A significant interaction effect was observed between gender and farm roles on alcohol consumption patterns, with female farm owners and managers reporting binge drinking behavior most frequently. CONCLUSIONS This study identified distinct differences between respondents in terms of stress, resilience, and alcohol consumption patterns, based on both gender and occupational roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Proctor
- From the Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
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2
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O'Connor S, Malone SM, Firnhaber J, O' Shaughnessy BR, McNamara JG, O'Hagan D. Disordered alcohol and substance use in Irish farmers: A cross-sectional survey. J Rural Health 2024; 40:173-180. [PMID: 37483102 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12783] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Farming is a high-pressure occupation. Populations of farmers face significant health risks, including injury, mental illness, and in some cases, heavy alcohol use. However, there is little research on farmers' use of substances beyond alcohol. This study examines factors relating to Irish farmers' disordered alcohol and substance use. METHODS In accordance with STROBE guidelines for cross-sectional research and reporting, we examined disordered alcohol and substance use in 351 Irish farmers using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Tool (AUDIT) and Drug Use Disorders Identification Tool (DUDIT). FINDINGS While 28% of farmers did not drink, 40% of those who did drink exceeded the AUDIT threshold for disordered use. Similarly, while 95% of farmers did not use substances, 78% of farmers who did use substances exceeded the DUDIT threshold for disordered use. Age was the most important risk factor for disordered alcohol and substance use and correlated with other main risk factors: lower income, no children, part-time farmer, and full-time off-farm roles. Disordered drinking was highest in farmers engaged in full-time education. CONCLUSIONS This population of Irish farmers report broadly healthy alcohol and substance use behaviors. Irish farmers may serve as a model group whose strengths can be utilized in interventions within and beyond the Irish farming community. Our results confirm the importance of analyzing demographic factors in farmers' drinking and identify younger farmers as especially at-risk for harmful alcohol and substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhán O'Connor
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sandra M Malone
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Joseph Firnhaber
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - John G McNamara
- Teagasc - Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, Farm Health and Safety, Knowledge Transfer Unit, Kildalton, Ireland
| | - Donnla O'Hagan
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
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3
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AlKalbani SR, Murrin C. The association between alcohol intake and obesity in a sample of the Irish adult population, a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2075. [PMID: 37875864 PMCID: PMC10594818 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16946-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity epidemic is one of the most serious public health challenges of the twenty-first century. Alcohol has been studied as a possible risk factor for obesity, but the evidence is discordant. This study examined the association between alcohol consumption and obesity in a sample of the Irish adult population. METHOD An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data from the 2017 Healthy Ireland Survey. The primary survey recruited patients using a two-stage probability-based technique and a face-to-face-administered questionnaire to collect data. Descriptive and comparative data were analysed to identify associations between alcohol-related variables with waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI). Regression analysis was performed to examine the associations between harmful alcohol consumption (AUDIT-C score ≥ 5) (exposure variable) and obesity indicators (WC and BMI), the primary outcomes of interest. Adjustments were made for sociodemographic, health-related, and other alcohol-related variables. RESULTS Total of 6864 participants, aged 25 and older, took part in this survey (response rate = 60.4%). Most of the participants (81.9%) were alcohol drinkers, with the majority drinking less than three times per week (76.3%); 47.7% were considered harmful drinkers (AUDIT-C score ≥ 5). After controlling for possible confounders, positive associations of harmful alcohol consumption with WC (β = 1.72, 95% CI: 0.25, 3.19) and BMI (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.96) were observed. Binge drinking was positively associated with WC (β = 1.71, 95% CI: 0.50, 2.91), while alcohol consumption frequency was significantly and inversely associated with BMI (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.44, 0.78). CONCLUSION Harmful alcohol consumption was associated with obesity (high BMI, large WC) after controlling for possible confounders. Frequent binge drinkers were more likely to have a large WC, while frequent alcohol consumers were less likely to have obesity. Further longitudinal studies to examine the exact association between alcohol consumption and obesity are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Celine Murrin
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy, and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Larrondo C, Guevara RD, Calderón-Amor J, Munoz C, Cáceres C, Alvarado M, Fresno M, Di Pillo F. One Welfare: Assessing the Effects of Drought and the COVID-19 Pandemic on Farmers' Well-Being and Their Perception of Goats' Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3297. [PMID: 37894021 PMCID: PMC10603839 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the interconnections between human well-being, animal welfare, and the environment, this study aimed to investigate the impacts of drought and the COVID-19 pandemic on small-scale goat farmers' well-being and their perception of goats' welfare following the One Welfare framework. Using a telephone survey, close-ended questions, and Likert scales, we assessed the impacts of drought and the COVID-19 pandemic on human well-being and animal welfare in the Coquimbo region of Chile. The DASS-21 questionnaire was used to evaluate farmers' mental health. Goat farmers perceived the scarcity of water and food for animals as factors that negatively affected animal productivity and welfare and caused an increase in farmers' stress levels. Farmers who had not been visited by a veterinarian showed higher levels of stress than those who received one visit during the year (M = 10 vs. 2, p = 0.025). Additionally, farmers who perceived better welfare of their animals showed lower levels of depression (rs = -0.17, p = 0.048), anxiety (rs = -0.21, p = 0.016), and stress (rs = -0.33, p < 0.001). These findings emphasize the importance of addressing farmers' mental health and veterinary support as crucial aspects to ensure both goat welfare and farm productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Larrondo
- Núcleo de Investigaciones Aplicadas en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Agronomía, Universidad de Las Américas, Sede Viña del Mar, 7 Norte 1348, Viña del Mar 2531098, Chile
- AWEC Advisors S.L. Eureka Building. Parc de Recerca de la UAB, 08193 Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain;
| | - Raúl David Guevara
- AWEC Advisors S.L. Eureka Building. Parc de Recerca de la UAB, 08193 Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain;
| | - Javiera Calderón-Amor
- Escuela de Graduados, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile;
| | - Carolina Munoz
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | - Carolina Cáceres
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Agronomía, Universidad de Las Américas, Sede Viña del Mar, 7 Norte 1348, Viña del Mar 2531098, Chile; (C.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Mabeley Alvarado
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Agronomía, Universidad de Las Américas, Sede Viña del Mar, 7 Norte 1348, Viña del Mar 2531098, Chile; (C.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Marcela Fresno
- Núcleo de Investigaciones Aplicadas en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Agronomía, Universidad de Las Américas, Sede Santiago, Manuel Montt 948, Santiago 7500972, Chile; (M.F.); (F.D.P.)
| | - Francisca Di Pillo
- Núcleo de Investigaciones Aplicadas en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Agronomía, Universidad de Las Américas, Sede Santiago, Manuel Montt 948, Santiago 7500972, Chile; (M.F.); (F.D.P.)
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5
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Chennapragada L, Kandlur R, Pushpanadh S, Shailendra Aragula S, Kilby DJ, Richardson-Vejlgaard R. A study of attitudes and experiences relating to alcohol use in a community of family farmers from Southern India. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023:1-23. [PMID: 37610764 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2023.2248032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Problematic drinking is found to be common among Indian farmers. This study aims to improve our understanding of the causes, consequences, and culture surrounding drinking in Indian farming communities. 36 semi-structured interviews with male and female farmers were thematically analyzed. Problematic drinking in male farmers was found to significantly impact farmer's relationships, work, finances, and health, and to be related to spousal abuse and neglect. Drinking to cope with mental and physical pain was common, and stigma around drinking appears to be a barrier to social support. Implications for future research and treatment efforts for Indian farmers are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raksha Kandlur
- Teachers College Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Sreelakshmi Pushpanadh
- Teachers College Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Farmers in rural areas face unique lifestyle stressors which may cause physical and behavioral health issues. Because of external stressors, and often an internal drive to succeed, farmers in rural areas have high rates of prescription drug use, excessive alcohol use, depression, and suicide. These methods of coping may increase prevalence of distress and mental illness in farmers leading to poor health outcomes. Social norms within rural farming populations are influenced by culture, family, friends, and community beliefs which make it difficult to conduct research about substance use and mental health. The purpose of this study is to identify stressors in rural farmers and positive and negative coping strategies for stress in the farming population. METHODS In-depth interviews (35 minutes-1 hour) were conducted with full-time rural farmers (n = 15) in ten counties throughout Georgia. Using qualitative analysis, inductive coding was used to identify themes and patterns among transcribed interview recordings. RESULTS Stressors reported by farmers included: financial, work-life balance, physical health and disconnect from non-farming populations. Farmers described feeling misperceived by those outside of their community and feeling a distinct lack of control due to external factors. All the farmers identified alcohol use as a primary coping strategy to deal with stressors. CONCLUSIONS This study identifies distinct stressors associated with a farming lifestyle and socio-cultural factors that are barriers to care for mental health and substance use in rural farmers. This study can provide information to health practitioners that may lead to a better understanding of the factors influencing farmer's health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Proctor
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia College of Public Health, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Noah Hopkins
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia College of Public Health, Athens, GA, USA
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7
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Durant JL, Asprooth L, Galt RE, Schmulevich SP, Manser GM, Pinzón N. Farm resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic: The case of California direct market farmers. AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS 2023; 204:103532. [PMID: 36249876 PMCID: PMC9550669 DOI: 10.1016/j.agsy.2022.103532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant shocks to U.S. food systems at multiple scales. While disturbances to long-distance supply chains received substantial attention in national media, local supply chains experienced mixed impacts. As broad closures of schools, restaurants, and other businesses sourcing from local farmers removed key marketing channels for many direct market farmers, consumer interest in Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), farmers markets, and on-farm and online direct farm sales increased. OBJECTIVE In this paper, we examine the resilience and vulnerability of farmers during the March 2020 through December 2020 period of the COVID-19 pandemic. We focus on California farmers and ranchers engaged in direct market sales. METHODS Through a widely disseminated survey, we collected responses from 364 farmers and used these data to answer the following questions about direct market farmers in California: 1) What were direct market farmers' experiences of the pandemic from March 2020 through December 2020? 2) Which factors (e.g., relationships, institutions, market channels) did farmers report enhanced their resilience during the pandemic? 3) Which individual and operational factors were significantly associated with resilience during the pandemic? And finally, 4) how do the farmer-reported factors compare to the statistically significant factors associated with resilience? We created three dependent variables-ability to respond to the pandemic, concern about pandemic impacts, and change in profitability-to operationalize several aspects of resilience and examine their association with individual and operational characteristics through a series of ordered logistic regression models. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Across both the quantitative models and the farmer reported factors, we found that farmers who increased their use of online sales and marketing during the first year of the pandemic, had larger-scale farms, and had more on-farm crop and livestock diversity were more resilient to the shocks of the pandemic. We also found that greater use of non-direct-to-consumer market channels was associated with less resilience. The characteristics of the farming operations played a relatively larger role in predicting resilience compared to the individual characteristics of the farmers surveyed. SIGNIFICANCE This study gives a detailed picture of how California direct market farmers fared during the pandemic and the characteristics associated with greater resilience. As short and long-term disruptions become increasingly common in agriculture, policies and programs can leverage support to direct market farmers, particularly direct-to-consumer farmers, as a strategy to strengthen farmer resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennie L Durant
- Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, 272 Onyx Bridge, 5289, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403-5289, USA
| | - Lauren Asprooth
- Geography Graduate Group, University of California, 129 Hunt Hall, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Ryan E Galt
- Geography Graduate Group, University of California, 129 Hunt Hall, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Agricultural Sustainability Institute, University of California, 143 Robbins Hall, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Sasha Pesci Schmulevich
- Geography Graduate Group, University of California, 129 Hunt Hall, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Gwyneth M Manser
- Geography Graduate Group, University of California, 129 Hunt Hall, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Natalia Pinzón
- Geography Graduate Group, University of California, 129 Hunt Hall, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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8
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Woolford DD, Smout MF, Turnbull D, Gunn KM. Male Farmers' Perspectives on Psychological Wellbeing Self-Management Strategies That Work for Them and How Barriers to Seeking Professional Mental Health Assistance Could Be Overcome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191912247. [PMID: 36231558 PMCID: PMC9564662 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
This research aimed to explore the self-management strategies that Australian male farmers use to improve or maintain their psychological wellbeing and their views on what would assist them to overcome barriers to seeking professional mental health assistance. Individual semi-structured telephone interviews were audio-recorded with consent. Qualitative data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. Fifteen male farmers participated, who were an average of thirty-nine years of age (23-74 years) with twenty years of farming experience (5-57 years). Seven themes relating to self-management strategies were identified: (1) interacting with a supportive network; (2) involvement in groups and teams; (3) physical activity; (4) proactively educating themselves; (5) self-prioritising and deliberately maintaining work-life balance; (6) being grateful; and (7) focusing on the controllable aspects of farming. Five themes were identified that related to mitigating barriers to seeking mental health assistance: (1) actively welcoming mental health professionals into the community; (2) normalising help-seeking; (3) making seeking mental health assistance a priority; (4) offering services that are culturally appropriate and accessible for male farmers; and (5) tailoring mental health information delivery to farming populations. Australian male farmers already use strategies to maintain and improve their mental health that are culturally and contextually appropriate. These proactive strategies could form the basis of interventions aiming to further promote male farmers' wellbeing. Barriers to seeking professional mental health assistance may be overcome by implementing solutions directly suggested by male farmers. Given the elevated risk of suicide in this group, investment in trialing promotion of these strategies is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale D. Woolford
- Department of Rural Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Matthew F. Smout
- UniSA Justice and Society, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5072, Australia
| | - Deborah Turnbull
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Kate M. Gunn
- Department of Rural Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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Cattafesta M, Petarli GB, Zandonade E, Bezerra OMDPA, de Abreu SMR, Salaroli LB. Prevalence and determinants of obesity and abdominal obesity among rural workers in Southeastern Brazil. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270233. [PMID: 35797372 PMCID: PMC9262245 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to assess the nutritional status of rural workers from a municipality in Southeastern Brazil and estimate the association of sociodemographic, labor, lifestyle, and dietary pattern factors with obesity and abdominal obesity of men and women of this rural area. This is a cross-sectional, epidemiological study of 740 farmers (51.5%, n = 381 males; 48.5%, n = 359 females). The sociodemographic, labor, lifestyle and dietary patterns determinants were assessed. Food intake data were obtained by applying three 24-hour recalls and dietary patterns were determined by Principal Component Analysis with Varimax orthogonal rotation. Poisson regression with robust variance stratified by sex was applied. The general prevalence of overweight status was 31.5% (95% CI 28.2-34.8%), 19.7% of obesity (95% CI 16.8-22.6%) and 31.5% of abdominal obesity (95% CI 28.2-34.8%), with higher rates in women (P < 0.001). Men of higher socioeconomic class had a 2.3 times higher prevalence of obesity (95% CI 1.08-4.90). In addition, the shorter travel time to purchase food increased the prevalence of abdominal obesity in males. For women, the older the age group, the greater the general and central obesity. A lower adherence to traditional dietary patterns (approximately PR [prevalence ratio] 1.6 for general obesity and PR 1.3 for abdominal obesity) and a greater number of places to buy food were associated with higher rates of obesity in women. Finally, women farmers with a higher workload had a 20% lower prevalence of central obesity (PR 0.80; 95% CI 0.65-0.97). Such findings demonstrate that obesity must be an issue in the health care of remote and rural populations. There is a need to promote healthier environments that respect traditional food culture through multiple approaches that consider the heterogeneity of rural areas and the differences between sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Cattafesta
- Graduate Program in Collective Health, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória/ES, Brazil
| | - Glenda Blaser Petarli
- Graduate Program in Collective Health, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória/ES, Brazil
| | - Eliana Zandonade
- Graduate Program in Collective Health, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória/ES, Brazil
| | | | - Sandra Marlene Ribeiro de Abreu
- Research Center in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure (CIAFEL) of Faculty of Sports-University of Porto (FADEUP), Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), and Faculty of Sports, Research Center on Physical Activity, Health and Leisure, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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10
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Prihartono NA, Fitria L, Ramdhan DH, Fitriyani F, Fauzia S, Woskie S. Determinants of Hypertension amongst Rice Farmers in West Java, Indonesia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:1152. [PMID: 35162176 PMCID: PMC8834778 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The hypertension rate in Indonesia has increased significantly in the past five years, but there is limited information about the hypertension risk of farmers. Our study assesses the prevalence of hypertension in this population and examines the proportional risk of various work environment and lifestyle factors among farmers. A cross-sectional study was conducted in high and low heat stress agriculture areas of West Java, Indonesia. There were 354 male farmers aged 25 to 73 years old who participated in the study. We measured blood pressure and used a questionnaire on self-reported use of anti-hypertension drugs or diagnosis by a medical professional to define hypertension. We assessed occupational factors including farming methods, heat stress and pesticide use, and personal factors including obesity, food intake, smoking status, alcohol consumption. Multivariate analysis was used to evaluate factors potentially associated with prevalence of hypertension. Forty-six percent of farmers experience hypertension. Farming in a location with higher heat stress (WBGT) was significantly associated with increased risk of hypertension (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 1.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01, 1.95). Farmers who used pesticide sprayers had an increased risk of hypertension (aPR 1.90, 95% CI 0.93, 3.87). No personal/lifestyle characteristics were significantly associated with hypertension, although ever smoking and ever consuming alcohol had an increased prevalence of hypertension. This study shows the importance of work environmental factors in the prevalence of hypertension and the necessity of public health education, identification and treatment of this "silent killer" among Indonesian farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laila Fitria
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia; (L.F.); (S.F.)
| | - Doni Hikmat Ramdhan
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia;
| | - Fitriyani Fitriyani
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia;
| | - Sifa Fauzia
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia; (L.F.); (S.F.)
| | - Susan Woskie
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, One University Ave, Lowell, MA 01854-2867, USA;
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11
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Watanabe-Galloway S, Chasek C, Yoder AM, Bell JE. Substance use disorders in the farming population: Scoping review. J Rural Health 2022; 38:129-150. [PMID: 33955045 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this scoping review is to summarize the current knowledge base in order to make recommendations for prevention and treatment of substance use disorders among the farming populations. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed articles published between January 1989 and September 2019. The search yielded 3,426 citations and the final review was conducted on 42 articles. The full review was conducted by 4 authors to extract information about the target population, data collection methods, and main results. FINDINGS There were 21 articles on farmers and 21 articles on farmworkers. The majority of the articles were about alcohol. Overall, farmers had higher prevalence of risky alcohol consumption patterns than nonfarmers. The prevalence of risky alcohol consumption was also high among farmworkers compared to the general population. Risk factors for risky alcohol consumption included male gender, lower socioeconomic status, and psychological problems (eg, depression). Recommendations for prevention and intervention of alcohol disorders included policy development and implementation to curb alcohol access by taxation, screening of alcohol-related problems, and alternative means of recreation instead of alcohol consumption. CONCLUSIONS This review confirmed that alcohol-related problems are prevalent among farmers and farmworkers. More population-based research is called for to understand the additional risk factors of alcohol disorders and the prevalence of other substance-related disorders. Also, interventions should be tailored to the unique culture of farmers and farmworkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinobu Watanabe-Galloway
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Christine Chasek
- Department of Counseling and School Psychology, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Kearney, Nebraska, USA
| | - Aaron M Yoder
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural & Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Jesse E Bell
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural & Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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12
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Bozic S, Vicendese D, Livingston M, Erbas B. Role of psychological distress on long-term risky and heavy-episodic drinking patterns in major cities and rural and remote areas. Aust J Rural Health 2021; 30:25-33. [PMID: 34932257 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychological distress and alcohol consumption are associated but few studies have focused on the association with problematic drinking in semi-urban and rural settings. In this study, we assessed the role of psychological distress on various measures of problematic drinking in urban, semi-urban and rural settings. DESIGN Retrospective descriptive study Setting SETTING: National Drug Strategy Household Survey population health survey data PARTICIPANTS: 151,341 Australian residents MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Problematic alcohol consumption categorised as either heavy-episodic drinking (defined as drinking 5 or more standard drinks at least once in the last 12 months) or long-term risky drinking (defined as drinking more than 730 standard drinks in the past 12 months) was the outcome variables. Psychological distress was identified from the K10 questionnaire. Participants were grouped into area of residence: urban, semi-urban and rural. Sex differences were also explored. RESULTS Poor-to-severe psychological distress was associated with higher odds of both long-term and heavy-episodic drinking. Being male alone increased the risk of both long-term and heavy-episodic drinking in all areas. When stratified by sex, being female and severe levels of psychological distress increased the risk of both long-term risky and heavy-episodic drinking. These risks were greater in non-urban environments. CONCLUSIONS Poor mental health outcomes may exacerbate problematic drinking amongst females, especially those living in non-urban environments. Public health campaigns could both target these at-risk groups of females in non-urban settings and also account for the interplay between problematic drinking and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bozic
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Don Vicendese
- The Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Vic., Australia.,The Department of Mathematics and Statistics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Michael Livingston
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Bircan Erbas
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
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13
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Kennedy AJ, Adams J, Dwyer J, Brumby S. Rural suicide risk and physical ill health: A qualitative study of the Victorian Suicide Register, 2009-2015. Aust J Rural Health 2021; 29:927-938. [PMID: 34748670 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To gain new insight into contextual factors shaping how physical ill health acts as a stressor in rural suicides-informing the development of appropriate targeted interventions. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Non-metropolitan Victoria, Australia. SAMPLE 802 rural (non-metropolitan) suicide deaths between the years 2009 and 2015. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Qualitative data from the Victorian Suicide Register relating to physical ill health of suicide decedents. RESULTS Thematic analysis identified 4 themes: (a) 'living with physical ill health in a rural area' highlights both practical and cultural challenges associated with managing physical ill health within the context of life in a rural setting; (b) 'causes and experience of chronic pain' highlights rural risk factors for chronic pain, how pain was experienced and treatment managed; (c) 'when living an independent, contributing life is no longer possible' describes the debilitating physical and mental outcomes of chronic ill health and pain; and (d) 'the cumulative impact of physical ill health and other factors on suicide risk' highlights the complexity of risk factors-in combination with (or as a result of) physical ill health-that contribute to a suicide death. CONCLUSION Identified themes suggest pathways to improve understanding and support for those experiencing physical ill health and associated suicide risk. These supports include contextually and culturally appropriate rural services to provide effective and necessary treatment, pain relief and mental health support; acknowledgement and response to a culture of alcohol misuse as an (ultimately ineffective) coping strategy; proactive psychosocial support mechanisms; and alternative approaches to support including consideration of innovative peer support models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J Kennedy
- National Centre for Farmer Health, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Hamilton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessie Adams
- National Centre for Farmer Health, Western District Health Service, Hamilton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeremy Dwyer
- Coroners Court of Victoria, Southbank, VIC, Australia.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, VIC, Australia
| | - Susan Brumby
- National Centre for Farmer Health, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Hamilton, VIC, Australia.,National Centre for Farmer Health, Western District Health Service, Hamilton, VIC, Australia
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14
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Investigating the Dietary Habits of Male Irish Farmers to Prevent Mortality and Morbidity. SAFETY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/safety7030054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Excess mortality and morbidity among Irish farmers from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has been linked to a range of occupational risk factors. Obesity is a key risk factor underpinning this excess burden and unhealthy eating habits are linked to overweight/obesity and to disease occurrence. This study investigated the dietary habits of a sub-group of Irish male farmers and explored how these might potentially impact on health outcomes. Cross-sectional survey research was undertaken using self-reported quantitative data, based on convenience sampling and a 24-h food re-call survey. Data were analysed using frequency and chi-square analysis. Where possible, findings were compared to national survey data for Irish males. Findings revealed that a high proportion of farmers were overweight or obese and that dietary habits consisted of low intake of fruit, vegetables, and dairy and a high intake of meat, fried and processed foods, salt, and sugary and/or salty snacks. Younger farmers reported a significantly higher intake of processed meats; however, no associations were found between age, lifestyle behaviours, and dietary habits. The findings provide a greater understanding of how dietary habits potentially contribute to poorer health outcomes among farmers and underline the need for health promotion interventions, including healthy eating campaigns, aimed at farmers.
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15
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Hurzeler T, Buckley NA, Noghrehchi F, Malouf P, Page A, Schumann JL, Chitty KM. Alcohol-related suicide across Australia: a geospatial analysis. Aust N Z J Public Health 2021; 45:394-399. [PMID: 34097331 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The acute effects of alcohol consumption are a major risk factor for suicide. Positive blood alcohol concentrations are present in almost one-third of all suicides at time of death. These suicides are defined as alcohol-related suicides. This cross-sectional study examines the geospatial distribution/clustering of high proportions of alcohol-related suicides and reports on socioeconomic and demographic risk factors. METHODS National Coronial Information System (NCIS) data were used to calculate proportions of suicides with alcohol present at the time of death for each level 3 statistical areas (SA3) in Australia. A density analysis and hotspot cluster analysis were used to visualise and establish statistically significant clustering of areas with higher (hotspots) and lower (coldspots) proportions. Subsequently, socioeconomic and demographic risk factors for alcohol use and suicide were reported on for hot and cold spots. RESULTS Significant clustering of areas with higher proportions of alcohol-related suicide occurred in northern Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland, as well as inland New South Wales and inland Queensland. Clustering of SA3s with significantly lower proportions occurred in major city and inner regional Sydney and Melbourne. Conclusion and implications for public health: Results from this study identify areas in which prevention strategies should target alcohol use and can be used to inform prevention strategy design. Additionally, hotspots and coldspots identified in this study can be used for further analysis to better understand contextual risk factors for alcohol-related suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Hurzeler
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, Translational Australian Clinical Toxicology Program, The University of Sydney, New South Wales.,Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Nicholas A Buckley
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, Translational Australian Clinical Toxicology Program, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Firouzeh Noghrehchi
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, Translational Australian Clinical Toxicology Program, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Peter Malouf
- Discipline of Indigenous Health and Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Centre of Research Excellence in Indigenous Health and Alcohol, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Andrew Page
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, New South Wales
| | - Jennifer L Schumann
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Victoria
| | - Kate M Chitty
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, Translational Australian Clinical Toxicology Program, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
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16
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Golzarand M, Salari-Moghaddam A, Mirmiran P. Association between alcohol intake and overweight and obesity: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of 127 observational studies. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021; 62:8078-8098. [PMID: 33998940 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.1925221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have assessed the relationship between alcohol intake and overweight/obesity; however, the reported results are inconsistent. Therefore, the present systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies was designed to investigate the association between alcohol intake and general and abdominal obesity among the adults. Literature search was conducted in the PubMed/Medline and Web of Science databases up to August 2020. Odds ratio (OR), risk ratio (RR), or hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were used to pool effect size. To conduct dose-response meta-analysis, amount of alcohol intake was classified into three categories including light (<14 g/d), moderate (14-28 g/d), and heavy (>28 g/d). In the present study, 127 eligible studies were included. In cohort studies, there was no significant association between alcohol drinking and risk of overweight (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.46 to 1.89), obesity (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.52 to 1.37), overweight/obesity (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 0.84 to 1.58), and abdominal obesity (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.90 to 1.41). In cross-sectional studies, alcohol intake was associated with the increased odds of overweight (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.18), overweight/obesity (OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.37), and abdominal obesity (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.29); but not obesity (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.95 to 1.12). Results of dose-response analysis indicated that heavy alcohol drinking was positively associated with odds of overweight (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.24), overweight/obesity (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.16 to 1.51), and abdominal obesity (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.38) compared to non- or light alcohol drinking. There was no publication bias among studied on outcomes of interest. In conclusion, our results revealed alcohol drinkers, especially heavy alcohol drinkers, had increased odds of overweight, overweight/obesity, and abdominal obesity than non-alcohol drinker or light alcohol drinkers among cross-sectional studies but not cohort studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdieh Golzarand
- Nutrition and Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asma Salari-Moghaddam
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parvin Mirmiran
- Nutrition and Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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17
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Cattafesta M, Petarli GB, Zandonade E, Bezerra OMDPA, de Abreu SMR, Salaroli LB. Energy contribution of NOVA food groups and the nutritional profile of the Brazilian rural workers' diets. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240756. [PMID: 33112887 PMCID: PMC7592810 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We estimated the caloric contribution of minimally processed foods, processed culinary ingredients, processed foods and ultra-processed foods in Brazilian farmers' diets and their association with the nutritional profile of the diet. It is an epidemiological study of cross-sectional, analytical and quantitative design with 740 farmers adults of Southeastern Brazil. Food intake data were obtained by applying three 24-hour recalls and were classified according to the degree and purpose of processing. The largest caloric contribution came from the group of minimally processed foods (64.7%), followed by ultra-processed foods (17.7%), processed culinary ingredients (12.4%), and processed foods (5.2%). Individuals in the fourth quartile of caloric contribution from minimally processed foods showed lower energy consumption (β -0.16, P<0.001) and greater consumption of all 15 micronutrients analyzed. In contrast to what was identified for this food group, the higher caloric contribution from ultra-processed foods was associated with a greater caloric content of the diet (β 0.17, P<0.001) and lower consumption of all 23 analyzed nutrients. Therefore, the caloric contribution from the consumption of ultra-processed foods in the rural area is still lower than the national average. However, measures aimed at delaying isocaloric exchanges for the group of ultra-processed foods must be carried out, maintaining the local food culture, since this group had worse nutritional levels. In addition, incentives to the greater consumption of minimally processed foods should be carried out, due to their nutritional quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Cattafesta
- Graduate Program in Collective Health, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Glenda Blaser Petarli
- Graduate Program in Collective Health, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Eliana Zandonade
- Graduate Program in Collective Health, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
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18
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Kennedy AJ, Brumby SA, Versace VL, Brumby-Rendell T. The ripple effect: a digital intervention to reduce suicide stigma among farming men. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:813. [PMID: 32471501 PMCID: PMC7260777 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08954-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared with the general population, Australian farmers-particularly men-have been identified as at greater risk of suicide. A complex range of factors are thought to contribute to this risk, including the experience of Stigma. stigma also impacts those who have attempted suicide, their carers, and those bereaved by suicide-manifesting as shame, guilt, social isolation, concealment of death, reduced help seeking and ongoing risk of suicide. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of an intervention, tailored for the farming context, designed to reduce stigma among farming men with a lived experience of suicide. METHODS The digital intervention used an adult learning model providing opportunity to share insights, reflect, learn and apply new knowledge among people with shared farming interests, suicide experience and cultural context. A range of content-tailored to the gender, farming type and suicide experience of participants-included video stories, postcard messages, education and personal goal setting. Pre- and post- assessment of suicide stigma and literacy was complemented by qualitative data collection during the intervention and participant feedback surveys. RESULTS The intervention was successful in reaching members of the target group from across Australia's rural communities-with diverse geographic locations and farming industries represented. One hundred and sixty-nine participants from the target group (farming males aged 30-64 years) were recruited. While the Stigma of Suicide Scale failed to identify a reduction in self- or perceived-stigma, qualitative data and participant feedback identified behavioural indicators of stigma reduction. Four subthemes-'growth', 'new realisations', 'hope' and 'encouragement'-highlighted attitudinal and behaviour change indicative of reduced stigma associated with mental health and suicide. Participants' baseline suicide literacy (Literacy of Suicide Scale) was high when compared with previous community samples and total literacy scores did not demonstrate significant improvement over time, although literacy about the link between suicide and alcoholism did significantly improve. CONCLUSIONS These results highlight opportunities in groups with high suicide literacy for targeted stigma reduction and suicide prevention efforts for both the target group and other populations within Australia and internationally. Results also highlight the need to reassess how stigma change is understood and evaluated across a wider range of population groups. TRIAL REGISTRATION This research project was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) (ACTRN12616000289415) on 7th March, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J. Kennedy
- Deakin University/National Centre for Farmer Health, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216 Australia
| | - Susan A. Brumby
- Deakin University/National Centre for Farmer Health, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216 Australia
- Deakin Rural Health, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216 Australia
| | - Vincent Lawrence Versace
- National Centre for Farmer Health, Western District Health Service, PO Box 283, Hamilton, VIC 3300 Australia
| | - Tristan Brumby-Rendell
- Deakin Rural Health, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216 Australia
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19
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Mařincová L, Šafaříková S, Cahlíková R. Analysis of main risk factors contributing to obesity in the region of East Africa: meta-analysis. Afr Health Sci 2020; 20:248-256. [PMID: 33402913 PMCID: PMC7750060 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v20i1.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Over a few decades obesity has become a major global health problem. Its prevalence worldwide has more than doubled since 1980. The situation is expected to worsen in the future, especially in the developing countries that experience nutrition transition due to economic growth. It contributes to reduction in malnutrition which supports an increase in obesity prevalence. Objectives The aim of this study was to analyse the predictors of obesity in the region of East Africa. Methods Meta-analysis of existing studies was used in order to find the different risk factors and their significance in obesity development. Data extracted from 16 published academic research articles described the situation in East African countries. The significance of the effect of each variable was tested by means of an asymptotic chi-square test, or Fisher's exact (factorial) test and the risk ratios were calculated. Results Based on the chi-square test and the risk ratios of the aggregated data, three risk factors were found to be significant in the development of obesity – gender, type of residence and socio-economic status. In East African countries, women are significantly more likely to be obese. Living in an urban area and socioeconomic status are also positively associated with obesity. Because of insufficient data three other risk factors did not prove to be of any significance – alcohol consumption, smoking and education level. Conclusion Conclusions of this meta-analysis confirm world trends but we also found results that are not in line with them (e.g. education). This meta-analysis confirms the huge existing research gap concerning obesity predictors in the East African region.
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20
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Jones-Bitton A, Best C, MacTavish J, Fleming S, Hoy S. Stress, anxiety, depression, and resilience in Canadian farmers. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2020; 55:229-236. [PMID: 31197397 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-019-01738-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To estimate the prevalence of stress, anxiety, depression, and resilience amongst Canadian farmers. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey using validated psychometric scales [Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale] conducted with farmers in Canada between September 2015 and February 2016. RESULTS 1132 farmers participated in the study. The average PSS score was 18.9. Approximately 57% and 33% of participants were classified as possible and probable cases for anxiety, respectively; the respective proportions for depression were 34% and 15%. The average resilience score was 71.1. Scores for stress, anxiety, and depression were higher, and resilience lower, than reported normative data. Females scored less favorably on all mental health outcomes studied, highlighting important gender disparities. CONCLUSIONS These results highlight a significant public health concern amongst farmers, and illustrate a critical need for research and interventions related to farmer mental health. These findings are important for policymakers, physicians, and public and mental health service providers, and can help to inform decision-making, policy recommendations, resource allocation, and development and delivery of training programs for farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andria Jones-Bitton
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Colleen Best
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | | | - Stephen Fleming
- Department of Psychology, York University, Faculty of Health, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Sandra Hoy
- School of Social Work, Laurentian University, 935 Ramsey Lake Road, Sudbury, ON, P3E 2C6, Canada
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21
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22
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Mugavin J, MacLean S, Room R, Callinan S. Adult low-risk drinkers and abstainers are not the same. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:37. [PMID: 31924194 PMCID: PMC6954507 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8147-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Alcohol consumption, even at low-levels, can not be guaranteed as safe or risk free. Specifically, the 2009 Australian National Health and Medical Research Council drinking guidelines recommend that adults should not drink more than two standard drinks on any day on average, and no more than four drinks on a single occasion. Nearly 40% of Australians aged 12 years and older drink alcohol but don’t exceed these recommended limits, yet adult low-risk drinkers have been largely overlooked in Australian alcohol survey research, where they are usually grouped with abstainers. This paper examines the socio-demographic profile of low-risk drinking adults (18+ years old), compared to those who abstain. Methods Data from the 2013 National Drug Strategy Household Survey were used. In the past 12 months, 4796 Australians had not consumed alcohol and 8734 had consumed alcohol at low-risk levels, accounting for both average volume and episodic drinking (hereafter low-risk). Results Multivariate logistic regression results indicated that low-risk drinkers were more likely to be older, married, Australian-born, and reside in a less disadvantaged neighbourhood compared with abstainers. There was no significant difference by sex between low-risk drinkers and abstainers. Conclusions The socio-demographic profile of low-risk drinkers differed from that of abstainers. Combining low-risk drinkers and abstainers into a single group, which is often the practice in survey research, may mask important differences. The study may support improved targeting of health promotion initiatives that encourage low-risk drinkers not to increase consumption or, in view of increasing evidence that low-risk drinking is not risk free, to move towards abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janette Mugavin
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia.
| | - Sarah MacLean
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia.,School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Robin Room
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia.,Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs, Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, 106 91, Sweden
| | - Sarah Callinan
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia
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Lynch T, Azuero A, Lochman JE, Park NJ, Turner-Henson A, Rice M. The Influence of Psychological Stress, Depressive Symptoms, and Cortisol on Body Mass and Central Adiposity in 10- to-12-Year-Old Children. J Pediatr Nurs 2019; 44:42-49. [PMID: 30683280 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of psychological stress and depressive symptoms on body mass and central adiposity in 10-to-12-year-old children and to determine the mediating role of cortisol in the relationships among psychological stress, depressive symptoms, body mass, or central adiposity. DESIGN AND METHODS The convenience sample included 147 children (84 females; 63 males) who were recruited from one middle school and three elementary schools in a rural area of a southeastern state. Height, weight, waist circumference (WC), and salivary cortisol were measured. Children completed the Rating Scale for Pubertal Development for screening, Children's Depression Inventory, and the Feel Bad Scale. Bivariate correlation, multiple regression analyses, and univariate regression techniques were used in data analyses. RESULTS A positive relationship between psychological stress and depressive symptoms (r = 0.559, p < .001) was found. Depressive symptoms explained a significant amount of the variance in body mass index (BMI) (β = 0.37, p ≤.001) and central adiposity (β = 0.40, p ≤ .001) when sex, race/ethnicity, puberty, and socioeconomic status were controlled. No statistically significant relationships were found between psychological stress and cortisol or between depressive symptoms and cortisol. CONCLUSIONS Depressive symptoms were reported by normoweight, overweight, and obese children. Depressive symptoms accounted for variance in body mass and central adiposity. Practice Implications In addition to regular screening of BMI and WC, nurses and other health care professionals need to consider psychological factors that contribute to childhood obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Lynch
- University of Alabama in Huntsville, AL, USA.
| | | | - John E Lochman
- University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Department of Psychology, AL, USA.
| | | | | | - Marti Rice
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA.
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Fávero JL, Meucci RD, Faria NMX, Fiori NS, Fassa AG. Alcohol consumption among tobacco farmers: prevalence and associated factors. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2018; 23:871-882. [PMID: 29538567 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232018233.13102016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESULTS This study aims to describe the prevalence of heavy drinking, high-risk alcohol consumption and associated factors among tobacco farmers. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 2,469 tobacco farmers over 18 years old in 2011. High-risk alcohol consumption was considered the intake of three or more standard doses per day for men or two or more for women. Heavy drinking was considered the intake of four or more standard doses per day for men and three or more for women. Hierarchical multivariate analysis was performed to investigate the association with socioeconomic, behavioral, and occupational variables. : The prevalence of high-risk and heavy drinking was of 4.7% and 1.09% among women and 30.8% and 4.8% among men, respectively. The factors associated with high-risk drinking for men and women were the percentage of income tobacco accounted for (PR 1.3 and 0.4), being an employee (PR 1.3 and 3.1), and use of pesticides (PR 1.5 and 2.1), respectively. Heavy drinking among men was associated with losing the crop (PR 1.6), attending religious activities (PR 0.3), and hours working in agriculture (PR 0.6). Occupational factors were associated wit high-risk alcohol consumption among men. The associated factors vary according to the pattern of consumption assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Lopes Fávero
- Núcleo de Vigilância Epidemiológica Hospitalar, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes. Av. Marechal Campos 1355, Santos Dumont. 29042-715 Vitória ES Brasil.
| | | | | | - Nadia Spada Fiori
- Departamento de Medicina Social, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Pelotas. Pelotas RS Brasil
| | - Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa
- Departamento de Medicina Social, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Pelotas. Pelotas RS Brasil
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Pinidiyapathirage J, O'Shannessy M, Harte J, Brumby S, Kitchener S. Chronic Disease and Health Risk Behaviors Among Rural Agricultural Workforce in Queensland. J Agromedicine 2017; 23:32-39. [PMID: 28976267 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2017.1387634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Little is known of the lifestyle behaviors and prevalence of chronic disease in the Australian agricultural workforce. This study aimed to assess behavioral risk factors and the prevalence of chronic disease among attendees of agricultural events in rural Queensland. METHODS Data on lifestyle risk factors and prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases were collected from participants in four separate cross-sectional studies in rural southern Queensland. Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, serum cholesterol, and glucose levels of consenting participants were assessed by trained medical students under the supervision of rural clinicians. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22 statistical software package and t-tests and chi-square tests were used to compare differences between groups. RESULTS A total of 702 attendees participated; the majority were agricultural workers (n = 393). Greater psychological distress was reported among participants from these rural communities (42%) than in the Australian population (31%); however, levels of psychological distress was similar between agricultural workers and others in the sample. Fewer people in these agricultural communities reported smoking (10%), and they reported being more active (86%) than the average Australian, but a greater proportion reported high-risk alcohol consumption (53%) and were found to be hypertensive (31%). These findings were accentuated among agricultural workers. CONCLUSION This method of investigation both raises awareness in the community and identifies health risks for further management in a group that has otherwise been poorly defined. Resident agricultural workers have different health risks and behaviors, though psychological distress appears to be borne across these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janani Pinidiyapathirage
- a Agricultural Health and Medicine Research Group , University of Southern Queensland , Toowoomba , Australia
| | | | - Jane Harte
- a Agricultural Health and Medicine Research Group , University of Southern Queensland , Toowoomba , Australia.,b Rural Health Stream , Griffith University , Toowoomba , Australia
| | - Susan Brumby
- c School of Medicine , Deakin University , Waurn Ponds , Australia.,d National Centre for Farmer Health , Western District Health Service , Hamilton , Australia
| | - Scott Kitchener
- a Agricultural Health and Medicine Research Group , University of Southern Queensland , Toowoomba , Australia.,b Rural Health Stream , Griffith University , Toowoomba , Australia
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Depression and Risk of Unintentional Injury in Rural Communities-A Longitudinal Analysis of the Australian Rural Mental Health Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14091080. [PMID: 28926999 PMCID: PMC5615617 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14091080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Limited longitudinal research has examined relationships between depression and injury, particularly in rural contexts. This paper reports cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses from the Australian Rural Mental Health Study (ARMHS) exploring relationships between "probable depression" episodes and unintentional injury. Participants completed four surveys over five years. Multivariate logistic regressions were employed to assess the causal effect of prior depression episodes on subsequent injury risk. Of 2621 baseline participants, 23.3% experienced a probable depression episode recently and 15.9% reported a serious injury during the previous 12 months. Factors associated with a 12-month injury at baseline included male gender, being unemployed or unable to work, being involved in a serious incident, hazardous alcohol use, and having experienced a recent depression episode. Longitudinal analyses revealed that probable depression was significantly associated with subsequent unintentional injury (OR 1.68, 99%CI 1.20-2.35), as was male gender (OR 1.39, 99%CI 1.06-1.82), while alcohol consumption did not mediate these relationships. Campaigns to reduce the impact of mental illness should consider unintentional injuries as a contributor, while injury prevention initiatives may benefit from addressing mental health issues. Such strategies are particularly important in rural and remote areas where injuries are more common and mental health services are less readily available.
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Wyatt TA, Canady K, Heires AJ, Poole JA, Bailey KL, Nordgren TM, Romberger DJ. Alcohol Inhibits Organic Dust-induced ICAM-1 Expression on Bronchial Epithelial Cells. SAFETY 2017; 3:5. [PMID: 29082234 PMCID: PMC5658133 DOI: 10.3390/safety3010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: Exposure to dusts/bioaerosols in concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) results in inflammatory lung diseases in workers. Hog CAFOs dust extract (HDE) increases expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), neutrophil adhesion, and TNFα release in bronchial epithelial cells. Alcohol consumption is increasingly recognized to impair lung immunity. We hypothesized that alcohol impairs HDE-induced TNFα, ICAM-1 expression and neutrophil adhesion by directly inhibiting TNFα converting enzyme (TACE) activity. METHODS Bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) and primary human bronchial epithelial cells were pretreated with ethanol (EtOH) or TACE inhibitor. ICAM-1 surface expression, TNFα release, and TACE activity were analyzed following HDE stimulation. The effect of alcohol and TACE inhibition on HDE-regulated epithelial cell/neutrophil adhesion interactions was investigated. Finally, utilizing an established animal model, C57BL/6 mice were fed ad libitum ethanol (20%) in drinking water for 8 wk followed by daily intranasal inhalation of HDE or saline during the final two weeks. Mice were sacrificed and lung sections immunostained for ICAM-1. RESULTS Pretreatment with alcohol or TACE inhibitor significantly decreased HDE-induced ICAM-1 expression and TNFα release. HDE augmented neutrophil adhesion to epithelial cells, which was decreased with alcohol (32% decrease) or TACE inhibitor (55% decrease) pretreatment. TACE activity increased following HDE exposure, but TACE activity was inhibited following alcohol pretreatment. Alcohol-fed mice demonstrated decreased HDE-induced airway epithelium ICAM-1 expression. CONCLUSIONS Alcohol diminishes HDE-induced ICAM-1 expression, TNFα release, and neutrophil adhesion via inhibition of TACE activity. These results suggest that alcohol may be an important modulator of lung innate immune responses following CAFO exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd A. Wyatt
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division of the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198; USA
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural, & Occupational Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5910
- Resereach Service, VA Omaha-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, 68105
| | - Kerry Canady
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division of the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198; USA
| | - Art J. Heires
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division of the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198; USA
| | - Jill A. Poole
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division of the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198; USA
| | - Kristina L. Bailey
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division of the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198; USA
- Resereach Service, VA Omaha-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, 68105
| | - Tara M. Nordgren
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division of the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198; USA
| | - Debra J. Romberger
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division of the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198; USA
- Resereach Service, VA Omaha-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, 68105
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Wen M, Fan JX, Kowaleski-Jones L, Wan N. Rural-Urban Disparities in Obesity Prevalence Among Working Age Adults in the United States: Exploring the Mechanisms. Am J Health Promot 2017; 32:400-408. [PMID: 29214811 DOI: 10.1177/0890117116689488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Higher prevalence rates of overweight and obesity in rural America have been consistently reported, but sources of these disparities are not well known. This study presented patterns and mechanisms of these disparities among working age Americans. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING United States of America. PARTICIPANTS The study included 10 302 participants of the 2003-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) who were 20 to 64 years old, not pregnant, and with a body mass index ranging from 18.5 to 60. MEASURES Individual-level data were from NHANES including age, gender, race/ethnicity, immigrant status, education, and family income. The outcomes were prevalence of obesity and prevalence of overweight and obesity combined. Neighborhood data were constructed from the 2000 US Census providing tract-level information on family median income and built environmental features and from the 2006 ESRI ArcGIS 9.3 Data DVD providing tract-level park location information. ANALYSIS Geographic information system (GIS) methods were used to create a measure of spatial distance to local parks capturing park accessibility. Random intercept logistic and ordinal logit regression analyses were performed. FINDINGS Multivariate regression results showed that the odds of obesity was higher in rural areas compared to urban areas (odds ratio = 1.358, P < .001) net of demographic controls and that this gap was largely attributable to individual educational attainment and neighborhood median household income and neighborhood built environmental features. After controlling for these hypothesized mediators, the elevated odds associated with rural residence was reduced by nearly 94% and rendered statistically insignificant. CONCLUSIONS In this nationally representative cross-sectional sample, rural-urban obesity disparities were large and explained by rural-urban educational differences at the individual level and economic and built environmental differences at the neighborhood level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Wen
- 1 Department of Sociology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jessie X Fan
- 2 Department of Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Lori Kowaleski-Jones
- 2 Department of Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Neng Wan
- 3 Department of Geography, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Gerald CL, Romberger DJ, DeVasure JM, Khazanchi R, Nordgren TM, Heires AJ, Sisson JH, Wyatt TA. Alcohol Decreases Organic Dust-Stimulated Airway Epithelial TNF-Alpha Through a Nitric Oxide and Protein Kinase-Mediated Inhibition of TACE. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2016; 40:273-83. [PMID: 26842246 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Farm workers in rural areas consume more alcohol than those who reside in urban areas. Occupational exposures such as agricultural work can pose hazards on the respiratory system. It is established that hog barn dust induces inflammation in the airway, including the release of cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-8. We have shown that alcohol alters airway epithelial innate defense through changes in both nitric oxide (NO) and cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA). Simultaneous exposure to hog barn dust and alcohol decreases inflammatory mediators, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8, in mice. Previously, mice exposed to both alcohol and hog barn dust showed a depleted amount of lymphocytes compared to mice exposed only to hog barn dust. Weakening of the innate immune response could lead to enhanced susceptibility to disease. In addition, mice that were co-exposed to hog barn dust and alcohol also experienced increased mortality. METHODS Because we recently demonstrated that PKA activation inhibits the TNF-α sheddase, TNF-α-converting enzyme (TACE), we hypothesized that an alcohol-mediated PKA pathway blocks TACE activity and prevents the normative inflammatory response to hog barn dust exposure. To delineate these effects, we used PKA pathway inhibitors (adenylyl cyclase [AC], cAMP, and PKA) to modulate the effects of alcohol on dust-stimulated TNF-α release in the bronchial epithelial cell line, BEAS-2B. Alcohol pretreatment blocked TACE activity and TNF-α release in hog barn dust-treated cells. RESULTS Alcohol continued to block hog barn dust-mediated TNF-α release in the presence of the particulate AC inhibitor, SQ22,536. The soluble adenylyl cyclase inhibitor, KH7, however, significantly increased the inflammatory response to hog barn dust. phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitors significantly elevated cAMP and enhanced alcohol-mediated inhibition of dust-stimulated TNF-α release. In addition, the NO synthase inhibitor, l-NMMA, also reversed the alcohol-blocking effect on dust-stimulated TNF-α. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that alcohol requires a soluble cyclase-generated cAMP-PKA pathway that is dependent upon the action of NO to inhibit TACE and TNF-α release. These findings support our observations that alcohol functions through a dual NO and PKA pathway in bronchial epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carresse L Gerald
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Debra J Romberger
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.,Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System Research Service, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Jane M DeVasure
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Rohan Khazanchi
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Tara M Nordgren
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Art J Heires
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Joseph H Sisson
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Todd A Wyatt
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.,Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System Research Service, Omaha, Nebraska.,Department of Environmental, Agricultural, and Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
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Brew B, Inder K, Allen J, Thomas M, Kelly B. The health and wellbeing of Australian farmers: a longitudinal cohort study. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:988. [PMID: 27634298 PMCID: PMC5025556 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3664-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Isolation, long work days, climate change and globalization are just some of the many pressures that make farming a vulnerable occupation for incurring mental health issues. The objective of this study was to determine whether farming in Australia is associated with poorer wellbeing, physical and mental health, and less health service use. Methods The Australian Rural Mental Health Study, a longitudinal cohort study was analysed over four time points comparing farmers with non-farming workers (n = 1184 at baseline). Participants were recruited from rural NSW, Australia. A number of physical, mental health, wellbeing, service use outcomes were assessed using generalised estimating equations including all waves in each model. Barriers to seeking help were also assessed. Results Farmers who lived remotely reported worse mental health (β −0.33, 95 % CI −0.53, −0.13) and wellbeing (β −0.21(95 % CI −0.35, −0.06) than remote non-farm workers regardless of financial hardship, rural specific factors eg drought worry, or recent adverse events. All farmers were no different to non-farming workers on physical health aspects except for chronic illnesses, where they reported fewer illnesses (OR 0.66, 95 % CI 0.44, 0.98). All farmers were half as likely to visit a general practitioner (GP) or a mental health professional in the last 12 months as compared to non-farm workers regardless of location (OR 0.59, 95 % CI 0.35, 0.97). Rural workers felt that they preferred to manage themselves rather than access help for physical health needs (50 %) or mental health needs (75 %) and there was little difference between farmers and non-farm workers in reasons for not seeking help. Conclusions Remoteness is a significant factor in the mental health and wellbeing of farmers, more so than financial stress, rural factors and recent adverse events. Creative programs and policies that improve access for farmers to GPs and mental health professionals should be supported. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-016-3664-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Brew
- Bathurst Rural Clinical School, Western Sydney University, Bathurst Base Hospital, Howick St, Bathurst, NSW, Australia. .,Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, University of Newcastle, Forest Road, Orange, NSW, Australia. .,Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, SE-171 77, Sweden.
| | - Kerry Inder
- Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, University of Newcastle, Forest Road, Orange, NSW, Australia.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanne Allen
- Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, and School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew Thomas
- School of Psychology, Charles Sturt University, Panorama Drive, Bathurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Brian Kelly
- Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, and School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Summary of the 2014 Alcohol and Immunology Research Interest Group (AIRIG) meeting. Alcohol 2015; 49:767-72. [PMID: 26520175 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
On November 21, 2014 the 19th annual Alcohol and Immunology Research Interest Group (AIRIG) meeting was held at Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Campus in Maywood, Illinois. The meeting focused broadly on inflammatory cell signaling responses in the context of alcohol and alcohol-use disorders, and was divided into four plenary sessions focusing on the gut and liver, lung infections, general systemic effects of alcohol, and neuro-inflammation. One common theme among many talks was the differential roles of macrophages following both chronic and acute alcohol intoxication. Macrophages were shown to play significant roles in regulating inflammation, oxidative stress, and viral infection following alcohol exposure in the liver, lungs, adipose tissue, and brain. Other work examined the role of alcohol on disease progression in a variety of pathologies including psoriasis, advanced stage lung disease, and cancer.
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Chen Y, Rennie DC, Karunanayake CP, Janzen B, Hagel L, Pickett W, Dyck R, Lawson J, Dosman JA, Pahwa P. Income adequacy and education associated with the prevalence of obesity in rural Saskatchewan, Canada. BMC Public Health 2015. [PMID: 26205987 PMCID: PMC4513791 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2006-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Obesity is prevalent in rural communities in Canada, however little is known about the social determinants of health and obesity in rural populations. Socioeconomic status has been found to be inversely associated with the risk of obesity in developed countries. This study investigated the relationship between income adequacy, education and obesity in a rural setting. Methods The study used data from 5391 adults aged 18–69 who participated in the Saskatchewan Rural Health Study in 2010. Participants completed a survey that included questions about location of residence, body weight, height, and socio-demographic and behavioral factors. Obesity was defined as body mass index being ≥ 30 kg/m2. Logistic regression using generalized estimating equation was conducted to assess the associations of income adequacy and education level with the prevalence of obesity taking covariates into consideration. Results Approximately a third of the participants were obese and the prevalence of obesity was similar for men and women. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher for rural residents not living on farm compared with those living on farm (p < 0.05). After adjustment for potential confounders, the risk of obesity was increased for those with ≤ 12 years of education compared with those with > 12 years of education (aOR: 1.18; 95 % CI: 1.05 - 1.34). Low income adequacy was significantly associated with an increased risk of obesity but only among those not living on farm (aOR: 1.80; 95 % CI: 1.16 – 2.79). Conclusions Home location was associated with obesity prevalence in rural Saskatchewan and modified the influence of income adequacy, but not the influence of education, on obesity. Adults not living on farm had an increased risk of obesity and showed a significant impact of income adequacy on obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Donna C Rennie
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada. .,College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
| | - Chandima P Karunanayake
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - Bonnie Janzen
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
| | - Louise Hagel
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - William Pickett
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Roland Dyck
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
| | - Joshua Lawson
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - James A Dosman
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - Punam Pahwa
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
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Pickett W, King N, Lawson J, Dosman JA, Trask C, Brison RJ, Hagel L, Janssen I. Farmers, mechanized work, and links to obesity. Prev Med 2015; 70:59-63. [PMID: 25448840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2014.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In a contemporary sample of Saskatchewan farm people, to relate the degree of mechanized and also non-mechanized farm work to the occurrence of being overweight or obese. Secondarily to determine the prevalence of being overweight or obese, and to compare these prevalence levels with those reported for general populations. METHOD Cross-sectional analyses of baseline survey data provided for 2849 individuals (2619 adults) from 1216 Saskatchewan farms in 2013. Age/sex-standardized prevalence levels of overweight and obesity were compared between the farm cohort and general populations. Durations of specific types of work were described by metabolic equivalent scoring. Multi-level binomial regression was used to study relations between mechanized and also non-mechanized farm work with overweight and obesity. RESULTS Overall, 65.1% of the adult farm cohort was overweight (39.6%) or obese (25.5%), with prevalence levels that exceeded estimated norms for Canada but not the province of Saskatchewan. Increases in risks for obesity were related to higher amounts of mechanized but not non-mechanized farm work. CONCLUSION While the mechanization of farm work has obvious benefits in terms of productivity, its potential effects on risks for overweight and obesity must be recognized.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Pickett
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6.
| | - Nathan King
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6
| | - Joshua Lawson
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - James A Dosman
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Catherine Trask
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Robert J Brison
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6
| | - Louise Hagel
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Ian Janssen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6; School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6
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Alcohol use, working conditions, job benefits, and the legacy of the "Dop" system among farm workers in the Western Cape Province, South Africa: hope despite high levels of risky drinking. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 11:7406-24. [PMID: 25050650 PMCID: PMC4113884 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph110707406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Revised: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study describes alcohol consumption in five Western Cape Province communities. Cross-sectional data from a community household sample (n = 591) describe the alcohol use patterns of adult males and females, and farm workers vs. others. Data reveal that men were more likely to be current drinkers than women, 75.1% vs. 65.8% (p = 0.033); farm laborers were more likely to be current drinkers than individuals in other occupations 83.1% vs. 66.8% (p = 0.004). Group, binge drinking on weekends was the norm; men were more likely to be binge drinkers in the past week than women 59.8% vs. 48.8% (p = 0.086); farm workers were more likely to binge than others 75.0% vs. 47.5% (p < 0.001). The legacy of “Dop” contributes to current risky drinking behaviors. Farm owners or managers were interviewed on 11 farms, they described working conditions on their farms and how the legacy of “Dop” is reflected in the current use of alcohol by their workers. “Dop” was given to farm workers in the past on six of the 11 farms, but was discontinued for different reasons. There is zero tolerance for coming to work intoxicated; farm owners encourage responsible use of alcohol and assist farm workers in getting help for alcohol problems when necessary. The farm owners report some positive initiatives, were ahead of the movement to provide meaningful wages, and provide other important amenities. Further research is needed to assess whether progressive practices on some farms will reduce harmful alcohol use.
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Breen C, Shakeshaft A, Sanson-Fisher R, D'Este C, Mattick RP, Gilmour S. Identifying individual- and population-level characteristics that influence rates of risky alcohol consumption in regional communities. Aust N Z J Public Health 2014; 38:60-5. [DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Breen
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales
| | - Anthony Shakeshaft
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales
| | - Rob Sanson-Fisher
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Newcastle, New South Wales
| | - Catherine D'Este
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, New South Wales
| | - Richard P. Mattick
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales
| | - Stuart Gilmour
- Department of Global Health Policy, University of Tokyo, Japan
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