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Mphaga KV, Utembe W, Rathebe PC. Radon exposure risks among residents proximal to gold mine tailings in Gauteng Province, South Africa: a cross-sectional preliminary study protocol. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1328955. [PMID: 38525346 PMCID: PMC10957527 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1328955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Gold mine tailings, a legacy of the mining industry, harbors significant amount of radon gas, a classified human carcinogen. Radon exposure, especially near tailings, is a significant public health threat, potentially leading to increased risk of lung cancer, leukemia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These health problems are often associated with lower survival rates and significant financial burdens. This ongoing research aim to evaluating the relationship between indoor radon exposure and lung cancer, leukemia, and COPD risks among residents proximal to gold mine tailings in Gauteng Province, South Africa. This cross-sectional preliminary study focus on two distinct groups: Riverlea (exposed group, <2 km to Gold mine tailings) and Orlando East (unexposed group, >2 km to Gold mine tailings). Indoor radon levels is measured using AlphaE monitors, while health risks (lung cancer, leukemia, and COPD) linked to exposure are evaluated through interview-administered questionnaire and secondary data from Gauteng Health Department. Of the 476 residents randomly selected for this study, 300 have already participated, with balanced representation from both the exposed and unexposed groups. The study will compare indoor radon levels and health outcomes between the two groups. This study's results could aid in creating targeted interventions and policies to mitigate indoor radon exposure risks and safeguard vulnerable communities from this significant public health hazard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khathutshelo Vincent Mphaga
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Doornfontein Campus, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Wells Utembe
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Doornfontein Campus, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Toxicology and Biochemistry Department, National Institute for Occupational Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Phoka Caiphus Rathebe
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Doornfontein Campus, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Khine MM, Langkulsen U. The Implications of Climate Change on Health among Vulnerable Populations in South Africa: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3425. [PMID: 36834118 PMCID: PMC9959885 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Climate change poses numerous threats to human life, including physical and mental health, the environment, housing, food security, and economic growth. People who already experience multidimensional poverty with the disparity in social, political, economic, historical, and environmental contexts are more vulnerable to these impacts. The study aims to identify the role of climate change in increasing multidimensional inequalities among vulnerable populations and analyze the strengths and limitations of South Africa's National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy. A systematic review was applied, and literature from Google, Google Scholar, and PubMed, as well as relevant gray literature from 2014-2022 were reviewed. Out of 854 identified sources, 24 were included in the review. Climate change has exacerbated multidimensional inequalities among vulnerable populations in South Africa. Though the National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy has paid attention to health issues and the needs of vulnerable groups, the adaptation measures appear to focus less on mental and occupational health. Climate change may play a significant role in increasing multidimensional inequalities and exacerbating health consequences among vulnerable populations. For an inclusive and sustainable reduction in inequalities and vulnerabilities to the impact of climate change, community-based health and social services should be enhanced among vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Uma Langkulsen
- Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Bangkok 12120, Thailand
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Amiri P, Hashtarkhani S, Yazdizadeh A, Ahmadian L. Mortality due to noninfectious lower respiratory diseases: A spatiotemporal, cross-sectional study. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e875. [PMID: 36248350 PMCID: PMC9547113 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Geography plays an important role in the incidence of respiratory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology and geographical distribution of death due to noninfectious lower respiratory diseases (NILRDs). Methods Data related to all death due to NILRD in Kerman Province between 2012 and 2018 were extracted from the National Mortality Registry. The underlying causes of death were extracted from the registry based on the assigned codes from ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision) classification. The existence of spatial clusters and outliers was evaluated using local indicators of spatial association statistics. Results The frequency of death due to NILRD was 8005 persons during the 7 years of the study. The main cause of death was chronic lower respiratory disease (54.2%). Other causes of death were, respectively, lung diseases due to external agents (1.09%), other respiratory diseases mainly affecting the interstitium (1.16%), other diseases of pleura (0.57%), and other diseases of the respiratory system (42.13%). The age- and sex-adjusted mortality rates due to NILRD in the north and center of the province increased significantly from 2012 to 2018. Also, the results of cluster analysis identified northern regions as the clustered areas of NILRD. Conclusions Our findings showed a significant increase in mortality due to NILRD in Kerman Province during the 7 years of the study. To reduce this type of death, health policymakers should have environmental health plans and basic solutions, such as a warning system to reduce the commuting on highly air-polluted days and to control pollutants, especially in the industrial areas of the north of this province.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parastoo Amiri
- Student Research CommitteeKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
| | - Soheil Hashtarkhani
- Department of Medical Informatics, Faculty of MedicineMashhad University of Medical SciencesMashhadIran
| | | | - Leila Ahmadian
- Department of Health Information Sciences, Faculty of Management and Medical Information SciencesKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
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Estimating the burden of disease attributable to ambient air pollution (ambient PM2.5 and ambient ozone) in South Africa for 2000, 2006 and 2012. S Afr Med J 2022; 112:705-717. [DOI: 10.7196/samj.2022.v112i8b.16483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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A Review of Air Pollution Mitigation Approach Using Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) and Anticipated Performance Index (API). ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13030374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Air pollution is a global environmental issue, and there is an urgent need for sustainable remediation techniques. Thus, phytoremediation has become a popular approach to air pollution remediation. This paper reviewed 28 eco-friendly indigenous plants based on both the air pollution tolerance index (APTI) and anticipated performance index (API), using tolerance level and performance indices to evaluate the potential of most indigenous plant species for air pollution control. The estimated APTI ranged from 4.79 (Syzygium malaccense) to 31.75 (Psidium guajava) among the studied indigenous plants. One of the selected plants is tolerant, and seven (7) are intermediate to air pollution with their APTI in the following order: Psidium guajava (31.75) > Swietenia mahogany (28.08) > Mangifera indica L. (27.97) > Ficus infectoria L. (23.93) > Ficus religiosa L. (21.62) > Zizyphus Oenoplia Mill (20.06) > Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (19.01) > Ficus benghalensis L. (18.65). Additionally, the API value indicated that Mangifera indica L. ranges from best to good performer; Ficus religiosa L. and Azadirachta indica A. Juss. from excellent to moderate performers; and Cassia fistula L. from poor to very poor performer for air pollution remediation. The Pearson correlation shows that there is a positive correlation between API and APTI (R2 = 0.63), and this implies that an increase in APTI increases the API and vice versa. This paper shows that Mangifera indica L., Ficus religiosa L., and Azadirachta indica A. Juss. have good potential for sustainable reduction in air pollution for long-term management and green ecomanagement development.
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Bai J, Zhao Y, Yang D, Ma Y, Yu C. Secular trends in chronic respiratory diseases mortality in Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa: a comparative study across main BRICS countries from 1990 to 2019. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:91. [PMID: 35027030 PMCID: PMC8759233 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12484-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As the emerging economies, the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) shared 61.58% of the global chronic respiratory diseases (CRD) deaths in 2017. This study aimed to assess the secular trends in CRD mortality and explore the effects of age, period, and cohort across main BRICS countries. Methods Data were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019 and analyzed using the age-period-cohort (APC) model to estimate period and cohort effects between 1990 and 2019. The net drifts, local drifts, longitudinal age curves, period/cohort rate ratios (RRs) were obtained through the APC model. Results In 2019, the CRD deaths across the BRICS were 2.39 (95%UI 1.95 to 2.84) million, accounting for 60.07% of global CRD deaths. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma remained the leading causes of CRD deaths. The age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR) have declined across the BRICS since 1990, with the most apparent decline in China. Meanwhile, the downward trends in CRD death counts were observed in China and Russia. The overall net drifts per year were obvious in China (-5.89%; -6.06% to -5.71%), and the local drift values were all below zero in all age groups for both sexes. The age effect of CRD presented increase with age, and the period and cohort RRs were following downward trends over time across countries. Similar trends were observed in COPD and asthma. The improvement of CRD mortality was the most obvious in China, especially in period and cohort effects. While South Africa showed the most rapid increase with age across all CRD categories, and the period and cohort effects were flat. Conclusions BRICS accounted for a large proportion of CRD deaths, with China and India alone contributing more than half of the global CRD deaths. However, the declines in ASMR and improvements of period and cohort effects have been observed in both sexes and all age groups across main BRICS countries. China stands out for its remarkable reduction in CRD mortality and its experience may help reduce the burden of CRD in developing countries. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-12484-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjun Bai
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, 185# Donghu Road, 430072, Wuhan, China
| | - Yudi Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, 185# Donghu Road, 430072, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghui Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, 185# Donghu Road, 430072, Wuhan, China
| | - Yudiyang Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, 185# Donghu Road, 430072, Wuhan, China
| | - Chuanhua Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, 185# Donghu Road, 430072, Wuhan, China. .,Global Health Institute, Wuhan University, 185# Donghu Road, 430072, Wuhan, China.
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Abera A, Friberg J, Isaxon C, Jerrett M, Malmqvist E, Sjöström C, Taj T, Vargas AM. Air Quality in Africa: Public Health Implications. Annu Rev Public Health 2021; 42:193-210. [PMID: 33348996 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-publhealth-100119-113802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This review highlights the importance of air quality in the African urban development process. We address connections between air pollution and (a) rapid urbanization, (b) social problems, (c) health impacts, (d) climate change, (e) policies, and (f) new innovations. We acknowledge that air pollution levels in Africa can be extremely high and a serious health threat. The toxic content of the pollution could relate to region-specific sources such as low standards for vehicles and fuels, cooking with solid fuels, and burning household waste. We implore the pursuit of interdisciplinary research to create new approaches with relevant stakeholders. Moreover, successful air pollution research must regard conflicts, tensions, and synergies inherent to development processes in African municipalities, regions, and countries. This includes global relationships regarding climate change, trade, urban planning, and transportation. Incorporating aspects of local political situations (e.g., democracy) can also enhance greater political accountability and awareness about air pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmamaw Abera
- Department of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, 9086 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Johan Friberg
- Division of Nuclear Physics, Faculty of Engineering, Lund University, 223 63 Lund, Sweden
| | - Christina Isaxon
- Division of Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology, Department of Design Sciences, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden;
| | - Michael Jerrett
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Ebba Malmqvist
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden;
| | - Cheryl Sjöström
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Tahir Taj
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
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Associations between Natural Resource Extraction and Incidence of Acute and Chronic Health Conditions: Evidence from Tanzania. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116052. [PMID: 34199822 PMCID: PMC8200105 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Natural resource extraction projects are often accompanied by complex environmental and social-ecological changes. In this paper, we evaluated the association between commodity extraction and the incidence of diseases. We retrieved council (district)-level outpatient data from all public and private health facilities from the District Health Information System (DHIS2). We combined this information with population data from the 2012 national population census and a geocoded list of resource extraction projects from the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST). We used Poisson regression with random effects and cluster-robust standard errors to estimate the district-level associations between the presence of three types of commodity extraction (metals, gemstone, and construction materials) and the total number of patients in each disease category in each year. Metal extraction was associated with reduced incidence of several diseases, including chronic diseases (IRR = 0.61, CI: 0.47–0.80), mental health disorders (IRR = 0.66, CI: 0.47–0.92), and undernutrition (IRR = 0.69, CI: 0.55–0.88). Extraction of construction materials was associated with an increased incidence of chronic diseases (IRR = 1.47, CI: 1.15–1.87). This study found that the presence of natural resources commodity extraction is significantly associated with changes in disease-specific patient volumes reported in Tanzania’s DHIS2. These associations differed substantially between commodities, with the most protective effects shown from metal extraction.
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Sandage MJ, Ostwalt ES, Allison LH, Cutchin GM, Morton ME, Odom SC. Irritant-Induced Chronic Cough Triggers: A Scoping Review and Clinical Checklist. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2021; 30:1261-1291. [PMID: 33989029 DOI: 10.1044/2021_ajslp-20-00362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The primary aim of this review was to identify environmental irritants known to trigger chronic cough through the life span and develop a comprehensive clinically useful irritant checklist. Method A scoping review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews, checklist, and explanation. English-language, full-text resources were identified through Medline, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. Results A total of 1,072 sources were retrieved; of these, 109 were duplicates. Titles of abstracts of 963 articles were screened, with 295 selected for full-text review. Using the exclusion and inclusion criteria listed, 236 articles were considered eligible and 214 different triggers were identified. Triggers were identified from North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Occupational exposures were also delineated. Conclusions A clinically useful checklist of both frequently encountered triggers and idiosyncratic or rare triggers was developed. The clinical checklist provides a unique contribution to streamline and standardize clinical assessment of irritant-induced chronic cough. The international scope of this review extends the usefulness of the clinical checklist to clinicians on most continents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary J Sandage
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Auburn University, AL
| | | | - Lauren H Allison
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Auburn University, AL
| | - Grace M Cutchin
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Auburn University, AL
| | | | - Shelby C Odom
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Auburn University, AL
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Risk of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Among Older Adults Living Near Construction and Manufacturing Sites. Epidemiology 2021; 31:468-477. [PMID: 32483064 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Construction and manufacturing sites produce airborne toxins that may affect nearby residents' respiratory health. Living in heavy industrial sites has been linked to respiratory conditions such as asthma and pneumonia. However, limited information is available for risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a form of acute respiratory failure with high incidence among older adults. METHODS We conducted a nationwide ecologic study to investigate associations between annual ZIP code-level changes in industrial activity and annual changes in ZIP code-level hospital admission rates for older community residents. Using adjusted generalized linear mixed models, we analyzed data from nearly 30 million yearly Medicare beneficiaries for the years 2006 through 2012. RESULTS We found on average 92,363 hospital admissions for ARDS per year and 646,542 admissions over the course of 7 years. We found that an increase of 10 construction sites per year was associated with a 0.77% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.71, 0.84) increase in annual hospital admission rates for ARDS and an increase of 10 manufacturing industries per year was associated with a 1.21% (95% CI = 1.09, 1.33) increase in annual hospital admission rates for ARDS across all ZIP codes. The estimated effect of chemical product manufacturing industry on ARDS was higher than that of total manufacturing industries. Residing in ZIP codes with a high number of construction or manufacturing sites was associated with increased ARDS hospital admissions. CONCLUSIONS This nationwide ecologic study of older adults suggests that residence in areas with more construction and manufacturing sites is associated with increased ARDS risk.
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Carey N, Boersema GC, du Toit HS. Improving early detection of infection in nursing home residents in South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AFRICA NURSING SCIENCES 2021; 14:100288. [PMID: 33520656 PMCID: PMC7830222 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2021.100288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper sets out key challenges related to detection and management of infection in nursing home residents, and then explores the situation in South Africa, and use of decision support tools as a mechanism to improve this area of practice. In line with global trends, concerns have been raised about the rapidly increasing aging population in South Africa and the ability of the current healthcare system to keep pace with patient demand, particularly nursing home residents. Nursing home residents, who often exhibit atypical signs and symptoms, are at increased risk of infection and unplanned admissions, which account for 65% of all bed days, and cost the US healthcare economy more than a trillion dollars a year. Evidence suggests that the current workforce in South Africa receive limited training in this area and are largely unprepared to meet the demands of the aging population. Building the capacity and skills of the workforce in South Africa is one approach that could help to improve the early detection of infection and assist the nursing home workforce to provide more effective and timely care, particularly during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Decision support tools, such as the Early Detection of Infection Scale, can help ensure consistency and ensure more timely treatment, minimising unplanned admissions and healthcare expenditure. However, the potential benefits or indeed how easily this could be integrated in to nursing homes in South Africa is unknown. An important first step, as in other parts of the world, is therefore to explore views and opinions of how infections are detected and managed in practice by nurses, care workers and managers in nursing homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Carey
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Kate Granger Building, Priestly Road, Surrey Research Park, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7YH, United Kingdom
| | | | - Helena S du Toit
- Department of Health Studies, University of South Africa, PO Box 392, Unisa, Pretoria, 0003, South Africa
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Aheto JMK, Udofia EA, Kallson E, Mensah G, Nadia M, Nirmala N, Chatterji S, Kowal P, Biritwum R, Yawson AE. Prevalence, socio-demographic and environmental determinants of asthma in 4621 Ghanaian adults: Evidence from Wave 2 of the World Health Organization's study on global AGEing and adult health. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243642. [PMID: 33296442 PMCID: PMC7725342 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A previous multi-site study involving lower- and middle-income countries demonstrated that asthma in older adults is associated with long-term exposure to particulate matter, male gender and smoking. However, variations may occur within individual countries, which are relevant to inform health promoting policies as populations live longer. The present study estimates asthma prevalence and examines the sociodemographic characteristics and environmental determinants associated with asthma in older adults in Ghana. Methods This study utilised data from the nationally representative World Health Organization Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) Ghana Wave 2. A final sample of 4621 individuals residing in 3970 households was used in analytical modelling. Factors associated with asthma were investigated using single level and multilevel binary logistic regression models. Results Asthma was reported by 102 (2.2%) respondents. Factors associated with asthma in the univariate model were: those aged 60–69 (OR = 5.22, 95% CI: 1.24, 21.95) and 70 or more (OR = 5.56, 95% CI: 1.33, 23.26) years, Ga-Adangbe dialect group (OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.71), no religion (OR = 3.59, 95% CI: 1.77, 7.28), having moderate (OR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.13, 2.75) and bad/very bad (OR = 2.75, 95% CI: 1.58, 4.80) health state, and severe/extreme difficulty with self-care (OR = 3.49, 95% CI: 1.23, 9.88) and non-flush toilet facility (OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.39, 0.99). Factors independently associated with asthma in the adjusted models were: those aged 60–69 (OR = 4.49, 95% CI: 1.03, 19.55) years, father with primary education or less (OR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.94), no religion (OR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.18, 5.41), and households with non-flush toilet facility (OR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.35, 0.96). Significant residual household-level variation in asthma was observed. Over 40% of variance in asthma episodes could be attributable to residual household-level variations. Conclusion Individual as well as household factors were seen to influence the prevalence of asthma in this national survey. Clinical management of these patients in health facilities should consider household factors in addition to individual level factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justice Moses K. Aheto
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Emilia A. Udofia
- Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eugene Kallson
- Deloitte Consulting, West Africa Deloitte & Touche, Accra, Ghana
| | - George Mensah
- Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Minicuci Nadia
- National Research Council, Institute of Neuroscience, Padova, Italy
| | - Naidoo Nirmala
- World Health Organization HIS/HIS/MCS, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Paul Kowal
- World Health Organization HIS/HIS/MCS, Geneva, Switzerland
- University of Newcastle Research Centre for Gender, Health and Ageing, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Richard Biritwum
- Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Alfred E. Yawson
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Shenoy UG, Kutty K. Pulmonary Functions and Respiratory Symptoms of the Women Exposed to Mine Tailings. Indian J Community Med 2020; 45:311-314. [PMID: 33354009 PMCID: PMC7745820 DOI: 10.4103/ijcm.ijcm_313_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Impact of mining on environmental degradation affecting water, soil, and air is established. With the recognition that air pollution is the most important cause for noncommunicable cause for mortality and women as a gender at higher susceptibility to lung dysfunction, it was necessary to make a start to understand the detrimental effect of mine tailing on ambient air pollution almost two decades after closure and its effect on the vulnerable women residents. Materials and Methods After institutional ethical clearance and informed consent, 258 females between the age of 18 and 60 years living in the gold mining town for over 3 years were selected. Respiratory symptoms were assessed using the American Thoracic Society questionnaire and lung functions of forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), and FEV1/FVC% using computerized spirometer. Dust samples were analyzed for particulate matter concentration (PM) by gravimetric method. Results The average PM concentration in the mining area was 1.491±0.737 mg/m. Of the respiratory symptoms, complaints of cough were 34%, breathlessness 31%, phlegm 30%, and asthma 20%. FVC, FEV1, and PEFR were 1.3157 ± 0.487 L/s, 1.2500 ± 0.4850 L/s, and 2.611 ± 1.185 L/s, respectively. FEV/FEV1 was 93.650 ± 9.2733%. Conclusion Mine tailing contributed to ambient air pollution, which has significantly decreased lung functions in the local women residents and produced the restrictive type of lung abnormality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usha G Shenoy
- Department of Physiology, Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research, Kolar, Karnataka, India
| | - Karthiyanee Kutty
- Department of Physiology, Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research, Kolar, Karnataka, India
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Iyaloo S, Kootbodien T, Naicker N, Kgalamono S, Wilson KS, Rees D. Respiratory Health in a Community Living in Close Proximity to Gold Mine Waste Dumps, Johannesburg, South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E2240. [PMID: 32225030 PMCID: PMC7178068 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17072240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The effects on respiratory health in populations living close to silica-rich gold mine dumps are unknown. This pilot study related respiratory health and exposure to mine dump dust using two measures of exposure: exposure group, based on distance lived from the mine dump-high (n = 93) (home <500 m from a mine dump), moderate (n = 133) (500-1.5 km), and low (n = 84) (>15 km, control group); and cumulative exposure index (CEI) derived from exposure group and number of years of residence in each exposure group. Participants were interviewed about respiratory symptoms and had chest X-rays and spirometry. We adjusted for key respiratory confounders. No subject had radiological features of silicosis. The high relative to low exposure group had significantly elevated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for upper respiratory symptoms (aOR: 2.76, 95% CI: 1.28-5.97), chest wheezing (aOR: 3.78; 95% CI: 1.60-8.96), and spirometry-diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (aOR: 8.17; 95%CI: 1.01-65.85). These findings were similar for the high relative to medium exposure group, but no significant associations were found for the medium versus low exposure group. Chronic bronchitis and tuberculosis risks did not differ significantly among groups. CEI and exposure group produced similar results. In conclusion, residents residing <500 m from mine dumps had elevated adverse respiratory health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Iyaloo
- Occupational Medicine Section, National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2001, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (S.K.); (D.R.)
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (N.N.); (K.S.W.)
| | - Tahira Kootbodien
- Epidemiology and Surveillance Section, National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2001, Gauteng Province, South Africa;
| | - Nisha Naicker
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (N.N.); (K.S.W.)
- Epidemiology and Surveillance Section, National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2001, Gauteng Province, South Africa;
- Environmental Health Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2028, Gauteng Province, South Africa
| | - Spo Kgalamono
- Occupational Medicine Section, National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2001, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (S.K.); (D.R.)
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (N.N.); (K.S.W.)
| | - Kerry S. Wilson
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (N.N.); (K.S.W.)
- Epidemiology and Surveillance Section, National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2001, Gauteng Province, South Africa;
| | - David Rees
- Occupational Medicine Section, National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2001, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (S.K.); (D.R.)
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (N.N.); (K.S.W.)
- Epidemiology and Surveillance Section, National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2001, Gauteng Province, South Africa;
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The Frequency of Fast Food Consumption in Relation to Wheeze and Asthma Among Adolescents in Gauteng and North West Provinces, South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17061994. [PMID: 32197353 PMCID: PMC7143251 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17061994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of asthma and allergic diseases have been on the rise, especially in developing countries due to life-style changes. The study aimed to investigate the association between the frequency of fast food consumption with wheeze and asthma among adolescents. A previously validated self-completed questionnaire from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood was used to collect information on demographics, socioeconomic status, house characteristics, adolescent respiratory health and diet. The prevalence of wheeze was 38.2% and of asthma was 16.37% among the adolescents. The results from the adjusted regression analyses indicated that eating fast foods three or more times per week was a statistically significant risk factor for wheeze (OR = 1.60; 95% CI: 1.26–2.03) and asthma (OR = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.04–1.91). The study found an association between eating fast foods three or more times per week and wheeze and asthma among adolescents in South Africa. Unhealthy diet plays a crucial role in respiratory health among adolescents; healthy eating habits are encouraged to reduce the burden of respiratory symptoms and diseases.
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Nkosi V, Rathogwa-Takalani F, Voyi K. Non-allergic rhinitis and associated risk factors among the elderly in communities close to gold mine dumps in Gauteng and North West provinces in South Africa: a cross-sectional study. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2020; 93:715-721. [PMID: 32072234 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01526-5] [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: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether non-allergic rhinitis among the elderly was associated with living close to mine dumps METHODS: Elderly persons (n = 2397) residing in communities 1-2 km (exposed) and ≥ 5 km (unexposed) from five preselected mine dumps in Gauteng and North West provinces in South Africa were included in the cross-sectional study, using a previously validated modified ATS-DLD-78 questionnaire from the British Medical Research Council. RESULTS The overall prevalence of non-allergic rhinitis in this study was 23.99%. In the unexposed, it was found to be 18.82% and 27.08% exposed communities. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that having non-allergic rhinitis was significantly associated with living in exposed communities (OR 1.73; 95% CI 1.37-2.17), being an ex-smoker (OR 1.75; 95 CI 1.35-2.26), being a smoker (OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.02-1.62), history of occupational exposure to dust/chemical fumes (OR 1.58; 1.30-1.93) and use of gas as the main residential heating/cooking fuel type (OR 1.61; 1.01-2.57). CONCLUSION A high prevalence of non-allergic rhinitis was observed in the elderly living in exposed communities. The adverse association was observed between residing in communities close to mine dumps and non-allergic rhinitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vusumuzi Nkosi
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, 2094, South Africa.
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Cnr Sherwell and Beit Street, Health Clinic Building, 2nd Floor, Doornfontein Campus, Doornfontein, , Johannesburg, 2094, South Africa.
| | - Funzani Rathogwa-Takalani
- Department of Advanced Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, 0950, South Africa
| | - Kuku Voyi
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
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Moya PM, Arce GJ, Leiva C, Vega AS, Gutiérrez S, Adaros H, Muñoz L, Pastén PA, Cortés S. An integrated study of health, environmental and socioeconomic indicators in a mining-impacted community exposed to metal enrichment. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2019; 41:2505-2519. [PMID: 31049755 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-019-00308-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of toxic metals and metalloids associated with mine tailings is a serious public health concern for communities living in mining areas. This work explores the relationship between metal occurrence (e.g., spatial distribution in street dusts), human health indicators (e.g., metals in urine samples, lifestyle and self-reported diseases) and socioeconomic status (SES) using Chañaral city (in northern Chile) as study site, where a copper mine tailing was disposed in the periurban area. This study model may shed light on the development of environmental and health surveillance plans on arid cities where legacy mining is a sustainability challenge. High concentrations of metals were found in street dust, with arsenic and copper concentrations of 24 ± 13 and 607 ± 911 mg/kg, respectively. The arsenic concentration in street dust correlated with distance to the mine tailing (r = - 0.32, p-value = 0.009), suggesting that arsenic is dispersed from this source toward the city. Despite these high environmental concentrations, urinary levels of metals were low, while 90% of the population had concentrations of inorganic arsenic and its metabolites in urine below 33.2 µg/L, copper was detected in few urine samples (< 6%). Our results detected statistically significant differences in environmental exposures across SES, but, surprisingly, there was no significant correlation between urinary levels of metals and SES. Despite this, future assessment and control strategies in follow-up research or surveillance programs should consider environmental and urinary concentrations and SES as indicators of environmental exposure to metals in mining communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo M Moya
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable (CEDEUS), El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Guillermo J Arce
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable (CEDEUS), El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cinthya Leiva
- Departamento de Salud Pública, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, Piso 2, Santiago, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandra S Vega
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable (CEDEUS), El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Santiago Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Salud Pública, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, Piso 2, Santiago, Santiago, Chile
| | - Héctor Adaros
- Hospital Jerónimo Méndez Arancibia, Arturo Prat 1000, Chañaral, Chañaral, Chile
| | - Luis Muñoz
- Comisión Chilena de Energía Nuclear, Nueva Bilbao 12501, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo A Pastén
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable (CEDEUS), El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Ingeniería Hidráulica y Ambiental, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sandra Cortés
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable (CEDEUS), El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile.
- Departamento de Salud Pública, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, Piso 2, Santiago, Santiago, Chile.
- Centro Avanzado de Enfermedades Crónicas (ACCDiS), Sergio Livingstone 1007, Independencia, Santiago, Chile.
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18
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Ho T, Cusack RP, Chaudhary N, Satia I, Kurmi OP. Under- and over-diagnosis of COPD: a global perspective. Breathe (Sheff) 2019; 15:24-35. [PMID: 30838057 PMCID: PMC6395975 DOI: 10.1183/20734735.0346-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth major cause of mortality and morbidity and projected to rise to third within a decade as our efforts to prevent, identify, diagnose and treat patients at a global population level have been insufficient. The European Respiratory Society and American Thoracic Society, along with the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) strategy document, have highlighted key pathological risk factors and suggested clinical treatment strategies in order to reduce the mortality and morbidity associated with COPD. This review focuses solely on issues related to the under- and over-diagnosis of COPD across the main geographical regions of the world and highlights some of the associated risk factors. Prevalence of COPD obtained mainly from epidemiological studies varies greatly depending on the clinical and spirometric criteria used to diagnose COPD, i.e. forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity ratio <0.7 or 5% below the lower limit of normal, and this subsequently affects the rates of under- and over-diagnosis. Although under-utilisation of spirometry is the major reason, additional factors such as exposure to airborne pollutants, educational level, age of patients and language barriers have been widely identified as other potential risk factors. Co-existent diseases, such as asthma, bronchiectasis, heart failure and previously treated tuberculosis, are reported to be the other determinants of under- and over-diagnosis of COPD. COPD is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, but misdiagnosis of COPD is a huge problem worldwide. Its main causes are under-utilisation of spirometry and lack of uniformity in diagnosis criteria, particularly in resource poor settings.http://ow.ly/KfP330nonkh
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Affiliation(s)
- Terence Ho
- Firestone Institute of Respiratory Health, Division of Respirology, Dept of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,All authors contributed equally
| | - Ruth P Cusack
- Division of Respirology, Dept of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,All authors contributed equally
| | - Nagendra Chaudhary
- Dept of Paediatrics, Universal College of Medical Sciences, Bhairahawa, Nepal.,All authors contributed equally
| | - Imran Satia
- Division of Respirology, Dept of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,All authors contributed equally
| | - Om P Kurmi
- Population Health Research Institute, Division of Respirology, Dept of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,All authors contributed equally
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Luenam A, Laohasiriwong W, Puttanapong N, Saengsuwan J, Phajan T. Socioeconomic disparities and chronic respiratory diseases in Thailand: The National Socioeconomics Survey. Inform Health Soc Care 2018; 43:348-361. [DOI: 10.1080/17538157.2017.1363760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amornrat Luenam
- Faculty of Public Health and The Research and Training Center for Enhancing Quality of Life of Working-age People, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Wongsa Laohasiriwong
- Faculty of Public Health and Research and Training Center for Enhancing Quality of Life for Working Age People, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
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20
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Determinants of Chronic Respiratory Symptoms among Pharmaceutical Factory Workers. J Trop Med 2018; 2018:3815689. [PMID: 29666655 PMCID: PMC5832031 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3815689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic respiratory symptoms including chronic cough, chronic phlegm, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest pain are manifestations of respiratory problems which are mainly evolved as a result of occupational exposures. This study aims to assess determinants of chronic respiratory symptoms among pharmaceutical factory workers. Methods A case control study was carried out among 453 pharmaceutical factory workers with 151 cases and 302 controls. Data was collected using pretested and structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate analysis. Result Previous history of chronic respiratory diseases (AOR = 3.36, 95% CI = 1.85–6.12), family history of chronic respiratory diseases (AOR = 2.55, 95% CI = 1.51–4.32), previous dusty working environment (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.07–4.78), ever smoking (AOR = 3.66, 95% CI = 1.05–12.72), and service years (AOR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.16–2.99) showed statistically significant association with chronic respiratory symptoms. Conclusion Previous history of respiratory diseases, family history of chronic respiratory diseases, previous dusty working environment, smoking, and service years were determinants of chronic respiratory symptoms. Public health endeavors to prevent the burden of chronic respiratory symptoms among pharmaceutical factory workers should target the reduction of adverse workplace exposures and discouragement of smoking.
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21
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Laohasiriwong W, Srathonghon W, Phajan T, Assana S, Intamat S. Dust exposure and lung function of workers in the brick and clay pottery factories in the Northeast of Thailand. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/00207233.2017.1341738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wongsa Laohasiriwong
- Department of Public Health Administration, Faculty of Public Health and Research and Training Centre for Enhancing Quality of Life for Working Age People, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | | | - Teerasak Phajan
- Community Public Health, Sirindhorn College Public Health, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Supat Assana
- Community Public Health, Sirindhorn College Public Health, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Somsak Intamat
- That Phanom Crown Prince Hospital, Nakorn Phanom, Thailand
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Occupational Respiratory Diseases of Miners from Two Gold Mines in Ghana. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14030337. [PMID: 28327542 PMCID: PMC5369172 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14030337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study investigated respiratory disorders among gold miners in Ghana, a sub-Saharan African country. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional exploratory design that employed quantitative methods was conducted among 1001 male workers from the Obuasi and Tarkwa mines from December 2015 to April 2016. A total of 1001 workers, consisting of 505 and 496 underground and surface miners, respectively, were involved. The cross-sectional descriptive design was used because data was collected from participants of different experiences by selected participants at a time. Results: The study found significant association between age, educational background, marital status and drinking alcohol on respiratory disorders. The prevalence of asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis and emphysema were respectively 47.55%, 14.29%, 9.69% and 5.10%. Coughing was the most cited respiratory symptom (35.4%). Conclusions: The study documents important evidence on the level of respiratory disorders among miners in Ghana. Instituting appropriate health education interventions and improving the working environment is critical to improving the overall health and preventing respiratory disorders among miners.
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Gorenak M, Gorenak I. The issues of preventive health care of tour guides and tour managers. Work 2017; 56:327-336. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-162484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mitja Gorenak
- Faculty of Tourism, University of Maribor, Brežice, Slovenia
| | - Irena Gorenak
- Faculty of Logistics, University of Maribor, Celje, Slovenia
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Nkosi V, Wichmann J, Voyi K. Indoor and outdoor PM 10 levels at schools located near mine dumps in Gauteng and North West Provinces, South Africa. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:42. [PMID: 28061882 PMCID: PMC5219730 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3950-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies in South Africa have investigated the exposure of asthmatic learners to indoor and outdoor air pollution at schools. This study compared outdoor PM10 and SO2 exposure levels in exposed (1-2 km from gold mine dumps) and unexposed schools (5 km or more from gold mine dumps). It also examined exposure of asthmatic children to indoor respirable dust at exposed and unexposed schools. METHODS The study was conducted between 1 and 31 October 2012 in five schools from exposed and five from unexposed communities. Outdoor PM10 and SO2 levels were measured for 8-h at each school. Ten asthmatic learners were randomly selected from each school for 8-h personal respirable dust sampling during school hours. RESULTS The level of outdoor PM10 for exposed was 16.42 vs. 11.47 mg.m-3 for the unexposed communities (p < 0.001). The outdoor SO2 for exposed was 0.02 ppb vs. 0.01 ppb for unexposed communities (p < 0.001). Indoor respirable dust in the classroom differed significantly between exposed (0.17 mg.m-3) vs. unexposed (0.01 mg.m-3) children with asthma at each school (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The significant differences between exposed and unexposed schools could reveal a serious potential health hazard for school children, although they were within the South African Air Quality Standards' set by the Department of Environmental Affairs. The indoor respirable dust levels in exposed schools could have an impact on children with asthma, as they were significantly higher than the unexposed schools, although there are no published standards for environmental exposure for children with asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vusumuzi Nkosi
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, P.O. Box 2034, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Janine Wichmann
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, P.O. Box 2034, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Kuku Voyi
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, P.O. Box 2034, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
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Carkovic AB, Calcagni MS, Vega AS, Coquery M, Moya PM, Bonilla CA, Pastén PA. Active and legacy mining in an arid urban environment: challenges and perspectives for Copiapó, Northern Chile. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2016; 38:1001-1014. [PMID: 26758741 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-016-9793-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/03/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Urban expansion in areas of active and legacy mining imposes a sustainability challenge, especially in arid environments where cities compete for resources with agriculture and industry. The city of Copiapó, with 150,000 inhabitants in the Atacama Desert, reflects this challenge. More than 30 abandoned tailings from legacy mining are scattered throughout its urban and peri-urban area, which include an active copper smelter. Despite the public concern generated by the mining-related pollution, no geochemical information is currently available for Copiapó, particularly for metal concentration in environmental solid phases. A geochemical screening of soils (n = 42), street dusts (n = 71) and tailings (n = 68) was conducted in November 2014 and April 2015. Organic matter, pH and elemental composition measurements were taken. Notably, copper in soils (60-2120 mg/kg) and street dusts (110-10,200 mg/kg) consistently exceeded international guidelines for residential and industrial use, while a lower proportion of samples exceeded international guidelines for arsenic, zinc and lead. Metal enrichment occurred in residential, industrial and agricultural areas near tailings and the copper smelter. This first screening of metal contamination sets the basis for future risk assessments toward defining knowledge-based policies and urban planning. Challenges include developing: (1) adequate intervention guideline values; (2) appropriate geochemical background levels for key metals; (3) urban planning that considers contaminated areas; (4) cost-effective control strategies for abandoned tailings in water-scarce areas; and (5) scenarios and technologies for tailings reprocessing. Assessing urban geochemical risks is a critical endeavor for areas where extreme events triggered by climate change are likely, as the mud flooding that impacted Copiapó in late March 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athena B Carkovic
- Departamento de Ingeniería Hidráulica y Ambiental, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable CEDEUS, El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Magdalena S Calcagni
- Departamento de Ingeniería Hidráulica y Ambiental, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable CEDEUS, El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandra S Vega
- Departamento de Ingeniería Hidráulica y Ambiental, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable CEDEUS, El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marina Coquery
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable CEDEUS, El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
- Irstea, U.R. MALY, 5 Rue de la Doua, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Pablo M Moya
- Departamento de Ingeniería Hidráulica y Ambiental, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable CEDEUS, El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos A Bonilla
- Departamento de Ingeniería Hidráulica y Ambiental, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable CEDEUS, El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo A Pastén
- Departamento de Ingeniería Hidráulica y Ambiental, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago, Chile.
- Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable CEDEUS, El Comendador 1916, Providencia, Santiago, Chile.
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