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Silva LB, Beserra Melo CJ, Lisboa de Souza AG, de Oliveira LG. Ergonomics, Health, and Perceptions about Remote Domestic Workposts: Study in Areas of City of João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:941. [PMID: 39063517 PMCID: PMC11276999 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21070941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Home office (HO) stands out as one of the most promising and popular forms of teleworking, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, many companies want to implement or maintain this working method, given its numerous advantages. However, there are adverse effects that are mainly related to physical and mental health. This article presents ergonomic analyses of HOs in neighborhoods considered heat islands. Temperature levels, extreme low-frequency non-ionizing radiation (ELF-NIR), illuminance, physical layout characteristics, and physiological parameters of teleworkers were measured. The results reveal that 92% of these professionals work 6 to 8 h daily with an ambient temperature between 25 and 30 °C, illumination levels in the range 11.20-290 Lux, and ELF-NIR > 0.4 µT. The majority of teleworkers are overweight (BMI > 24.9), and some of them have blood pressure higher than average values (129 mmHg for systolic and 84 mmHg for diastolic) in addition to a reduction in the number of red blood cells and hematocrits. Symptoms such as burning sensation, dryness, tired eyes, redness, itching, and photophobia (light sensitivity) show a 68.95% similarity. These HOs do not meet the required ergonomic and health standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Bueno Silva
- Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-970, Brazil; (C.J.B.M.); (A.G.L.d.S.); (L.G.d.O.)
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Emmerich F, Junghans J, Zenger M, Brähler E, Stöbel-Richter Y, Irmscher L, Richter EP, Berth H. Impact of Home-Based Work during the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental and Physical Health in a German Population-Based Sample. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:789. [PMID: 38610211 PMCID: PMC11011634 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12070789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 outbreak necessitated physical distancing, as part of secondary prevention, at a personal and professional level. Working from home (WFH) became increasingly important. In this study, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on physical and mental health is investigated, compared with pre-pandemic data, and with employees who WFH and are on-site. Methods: Data from the German Saxon longitudinal study population were used. Attitudes towards WFH as well as mental and physical health assessments during the COVID-19 pandemic were examined. Comparisons were made with corresponding pre-pandemic scores and between employees WFH and on-site in 2022. Results: In total, 319 participants with equal gender distribution were included. Of those, 86 worked from home stating better organizability of their work, more time for partnership, less stress, and greater work satisfaction. Compared to pre-pandemic data, the D-score, PHQ-4, G-Score, and PHQ-SSS-8 showed a significant increase. No difference in physical or mental health between employees WFH and on-site was observed. Conclusion: In general, COVID-19 restrictions had a negative impact on mental and physical health. Although WFH is well accepted, it did not show significant health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Emmerich
- Division of Psychosocial Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Research Group Applied Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Julia Junghans
- Division of Psychosocial Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Research Group Applied Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Markus Zenger
- Department of Differential and Personality Psychology, University of Applied Sciences Magdeburg-Stendal, 39114 Stendal, Germany
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy/Behavioral Medicine, University of Leipzig Medical Center, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elmar Brähler
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig Medical Center, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Yve Stöbel-Richter
- Faculty of Managerial and Cultural Studies, The University of Applied Sciences Zittau/Görlitz, 02763 Zittau, Germany
| | - Lisa Irmscher
- Division of Psychosocial Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Research Group Applied Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Ernst Peter Richter
- Division of Psychosocial Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Research Group Applied Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Hendrik Berth
- Division of Psychosocial Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Research Group Applied Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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Janc M, Jankowska A, Jozwiak Z, Makowiec-Dabrowska T, Jurewicz J, Polanska K. Distribution of sleep components while working remotely. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2024; 37:34-44. [PMID: 38214483 PMCID: PMC10959275 DOI: 10.13075/ijomeh.1896.02320] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The circadian system is the main regulator of almost all human physiological processes. The aim of this study was to assess sleep in the working population, in relation to the share of remote working. MATERIAL AND METHODS An online survey was conducted among students and staff representing 3 universities in Łódź, Poland (N = 1209). The participants were divided into 3 groups according to the percentage of time they worked remotely. Group I consisted of respondents performing tasks remotely for ≤45% of their working time; group II included respondents performing their duties remotely for >45-75% of their working time, and group III included those working >75% of their time remotely. RESULTS performing their duties remotely for >45-75% of their working time, and group III included those working >75% of their time remotely. Results: In the study, the authors found the association between the length of time spent on a computer, the percentage of time working remotely, and the occurrence of physical symptoms and the prevalence of sleep disorders. The most significant difference between working days and days off in terms of the mid-point of sleep (1.5 h) was observed in group I, where there was the greatest variability in the form of work performance. The participants who worked most of their time remotely (group III) shifted their bedtime to midnight, both on working days and on days off. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights that increased remote computer use leads to a shift in sleeping patterns towards midnight. The participants with later midpoint of sleep hours were found to have a higher incidence of sleep disorders. The prevalence of sleep disorders was significantly impacted by prolonged mobile phone use before bedtime and long hours of computer use. Thus, limiting both the time spent in front of a computer and the use of mobile phones before bedtime is recommended. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2024;37(1):34-44.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Janc
- Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Łódź, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Jankowska
- Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Łódź, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Jozwiak
- Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Łódź, Poland
| | - Teresa Makowiec-Dabrowska
- Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Łódź, Poland
| | - Joanna Jurewicz
- Medical University of Lodz, Department of Toxicology, Łódź, Poland
| | - Kinga Polanska
- Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Łódź, Poland
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Wechsler K, Griemsmann S, Weber B, Ellegast R. The impact of remote work using mobile information and communication technologies on physical health: a systematic review. ERGONOMICS 2024:1-18. [PMID: 38357908 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2024.2304582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Remote e-working with information and communication technology (ICT) has long been on the rise, with its implementation accelerated by mandatory working from home regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic literature review summarises the influencing factors of ICT-based remote e-working (device types, duration of use, user interfaces, etc.) on the physical health (musculoskeletal system and eyes) of knowledge workers. A search in four electronic databases and a manual search in four German journals resulted in 21 articles being included in this review. A bias analysis was conducted for all articles. Unfavourable postures, inappropriate working devices and certain environmental factors may cause a range of physical complaints, even after comparably short periods of time. Mostly, these complaints are greater compared to those experienced when working on a fully equipped stationary computer. Therefore, remote e-working requires careful planning, awareness, and the willingness to embrace working situations that counteract these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Wechsler
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Stephanie Griemsmann
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Britta Weber
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Rolf Ellegast
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Sankt Augustin, Germany
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Kanamori S, Tabuchi T, Kai Y. Association between the telecommuting environment and somatic symptoms among teleworkers in Japan. J Occup Health 2024; 66:uiad014. [PMID: 38273432 PMCID: PMC11020213 DOI: 10.1093/joccuh/uiad014] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to clarify the association between telecommuting environments and somatic symptoms among teleworkers in Japan. METHODS This cross-sectional study, conducted from September 27 to October 29, 2021, used data from the Japan COVID-19 and Society Internet Survey (JACSIS study) in Japan. Of the 31 000 male and female respondents, who were Japanese residents aged 15-79 years and were randomly selected from the panel members of an internet survey company, 4569 home-based teleworkers were finally included in the analysis; 26 431 respondents who met the exclusion criteria were excluded. The analysis included 4 cut-offs (≥4, 8, 12, and 16 points) for somatic symptoms on the Somatic Symptom Scale-8 as objective variables, and the telecommuting environment, such as having adequate desk light and a quiet environment, as explanatory variables. Adjusted Poisson regression analysis was conducted using demographic variables as covariates. RESULTS The prevalence ratio (PR) for somatic symptoms increased significantly as the number of poor telecommuting conditions increased, regardless of the cut-off value for somatic symptoms or the frequency of teleworking. In the telecommuting environment, the PR for somatic symptoms was significantly higher for the following 6 items: poor teleworking space to concentrate, inadequate foot space, poor communication environment, poor space for relaxation, noise, and inappropriate temperature and humidity. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that for home-based teleworkers, the more inadequate the telecommuting environment, especially in the aforementioned 6 areas, the higher the likelihood of somatic symptoms. Improving these environments may be useful in preventing various somatic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoru Kanamori
- Graduate School of Public Health, Teikyo University, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, 160-8402, Japan
| | - Takahiro Tabuchi
- Cancer Control Center, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Yuko Kai
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, 192-0001, Japan
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Hall CE, Brooks SK, Mills F, Greenberg N, Weston D. Experiences of working from home: umbrella review. J Occup Health 2024; 66:uiad013. [PMID: 38258944 PMCID: PMC11020277 DOI: 10.1093/joccuh/uiad013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The concept of "working from home" is extremely topical following the COVID-19 pandemic; therefore, it is unsurprising that there has been an increased interest in collating research related to homeworking. This has been carried out by multiple reviews, all with slightly different research aims and methodologies. Collating the findings from the available reviews is therefore highly beneficial to establish the experience of homeworking to create recommendations for the future of home-based work. METHODS An umbrella review was carried out. In June 2022, literature searches were conducted across 4 electronic databases. Published reviews of literature that used a systematic process, were focused on working from home populations, and detailed factors that could be related to the personal experience of homeworking (eg, barriers, facilitators, advantages, disadvantages) were included. RESULTS A total of 1930 records were screened and 6 review articles were included. Results report on the following sections: working environment (eg, workplace design, space conditions), personal impact (eg, satisfaction, career impact), and health (eg, physical health, well-being) including a total of 19 themes. Mixed findings were apparent for nearly all included themes, highlighting the need to consider individual and contextual circumstances when researching working from home. CONCLUSIONS This review establishes the importance of retaining flexibility while homeworking for employees, managers, and organizations. Essentially, a one-size-fits-all approach to working from home is impractical as individual circumstances limit application. Eight recommendations for the future of working from home are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte E. Hall
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, Weston Education Centre, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
- Behavioural Science and Insights Unit, Evaluation & Translation Directorate, Science Group, UKHSA, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha K. Brooks
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, Weston Education Centre, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Freya Mills
- Behavioural Science and Insights Unit, Evaluation & Translation Directorate, Science Group, UKHSA, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, United Kingdom
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QH, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Greenberg
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, Weston Education Centre, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Dale Weston
- Behavioural Science and Insights Unit, Evaluation & Translation Directorate, Science Group, UKHSA, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, United Kingdom
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Yang Z, Huang Y. A bibliometric analysis of telework research based on Web of Science via VOSviewer. Work 2024; 77:671-686. [PMID: 37742685 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked increased interest in telework as a means of reducing the spread of the virus and maintaining social distance. OBJECTIVE This study aims to generate a bibliometric analysis of research progress and trends in telework over the past 20 years. METHOD A search of key terms was conducted in the Social Science Citation Index, Science Citation Index Expanded, and Arts and Humanities Citation Index categories for documents published on telework from 2000-2023. A total of 3,446 studies were analyzed using VOSviewer for co-citation, co-word, and cluster analysis. RESULTS Bibliometric analysis revealed that telework research has experienced a significant increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the number of publications in 2022 being more than 15 times higher than that in 2019. The analysis revealed that the most commonly researched areas related to telework were applied psychology, management and business. The knowledge base focuses on the antecedents, moderators, mediators, and consequences of telework, and the research primarily centers around seven directions of well-being, mental health, and work-family conflict. A conceptual framework for telework research and suggestions for future investigation are proposed based on the results of the bibliometric analysis. CONCLUSION This study provides an overview of telework research over the past two decades, highlighting the current status and hot topics in the field. It calls for wider and more active participation of researchers globally to advance the understanding of telework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhirong Yang
- Library of Zhuhai Campus, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Yong Huang
- Library of Zhuhai Campus, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
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Kinsman N, Marris N, Oakman J. The impact of coworking spaces on workers' performance, mental and physical health: A scoping review. Work 2024; 77:61-75. [PMID: 37483047 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Utilisation of coworking spaces (CWS) was rising sharply prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition to new work arrangements which involve a hybrid, work and home model, is likely to involve the use of alternative workspaces. Understanding the impacts of CWS on employees is timely to examine the benefits of utilisation and how these might be incorporated into new ways of working. This scoping review aims to explore the relationship between CWS, mental and physical health, and workers' performance, and provide insights into future considerations for design. OBJECTIVE The main objective was to map the current literature on CWS, focusing on identification of relevant modifiable factors to improve worker's mental and physical health, and performance. METHOD Three databases, Embase, PsycInfo, and Proquest, were systematically reviewed, to identify studies from 2005 onwards. Data was extracted and analysed using diagrammatic mapping. Only studies published in English were included. RESULTS Eleven relevant papers were included which covered the three outcomes of interest: worker's performance (5), mental health (4) and physical health (2). Environmental factors influencing the three outcomes were categorised into physical environment (12 factors) and the psychosocial environment (6 factors). Overall, CWS environmental factors had a positive influence on workers (23 positive relationships and 11 negative relationships). CONCLUSION Coworking spaces offer potential benefits for tele-workers, including opportunities for collaboration/networking and productivity gains. However, attention to the CWS physical design is important to optimise the experience for workers and mitigate risk of adverse mental and physical health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Kinsman
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Nicole Marris
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Jodi Oakman
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
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Milaković M, Koren H, Bradvica-Kelava K, Bubaš M, Nakić J, Jeličić P, Bucić L, Bekavac B, Čvrljak J, Capak M. Telework-related risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1155745. [PMID: 37465175 PMCID: PMC10350503 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1155745] [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: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Telework has become considerably more common during the ongoing pandemic. Although working remotely may have numerous advantages, negative impacts on workers' health and safety should also be considered. Telework is a major contributor to the development or aggravation of work-related musculoskeletal disorders where unsuited workstation ergonomics, sedentary behavior, as well as psychosocial and organizational factors play a role. This paper aims to identify telework-related risks and their impact on musculoskeletal health as well as provide recommendations that may be useful in constructing future preventive measures. A comprehensive literature search regarding the topic has been performed. Teleworkers experience musculoskeletal pain and discomfort mostly in low back area, neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. Poor ergonomic solutions when it comes to workstation design resulting in prolonged sitting in non-neutral positions contribute to the development and aggravation of musculoskeletal disorders in teleworkers. Working with inadequately placed screens and laptops and sitting in maladjusted seats without usual functionalities and ergonomic support is associated with musculoskeletal pain and discomfort. Extended working hours with fewer rest periods to meet increased work demands, social isolation, and lack of support from work colleagues and superiors as well as blurred work-home boundaries and omnipresence of work are commonly stated psychosocial and organizational factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders. Environmental factors such as poor lighting and glare, inadequate room temperature, and ventilation or noise, are frequently overlooked remote workstation risk factors. For a certain part of workers, telework will remain a common way of work in the post-pandemic period. Therefore, it is essential to identify telework-related risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders and address them with timely preventive measures tailored to each remote workstation's risks and individual workers' needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Milaković
- Division for Occupational Health, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Helena Koren
- Division for Occupational Health, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Marija Bubaš
- Division for Occupational Health, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Josipa Nakić
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Pavle Jeličić
- Division for Environmental Health, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lovro Bucić
- Division for Environmental Health, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Barbara Bekavac
- Division for Environmental Health, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jelena Čvrljak
- Andrija Stampar Teaching Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Magdalena Capak
- Department of History, Croatian Catholic University, Zagreb, Croatia
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Roser K, Baenziger J, Ilic A, Mitter VR, Mader L, Dyntar D, Michel G, Sommer G. Health-related quality of life before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland: a cross-sectional study. Qual Life Res 2023:10.1007/s11136-023-03414-0. [PMID: 37084000 PMCID: PMC10119820 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03414-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic forced people to give up their daily routines and adjust to new circumstances. This might have affected health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We aimed to compare HRQOL during the first COVID-19 wave in 2020 to HRQOL before the pandemic and to identify determinants of HRQOL during the pandemic in Switzerland. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional online survey during the pandemic (between May and July 2020; CoWELL sample; convenience sample). Before the pandemic (2015-2016), we had conducted a cross-sectional paper-based survey among a representative random sample of the Swiss general population (SGP sample). In both samples, we assessed physical and mental HRQOL (Short Form-36) and socio-demographic characteristics. In the CoWELL sample, we additionally assessed health- and COVID-19-related characteristics. Data were analysed using linear regressions. RESULTS The CoWELL sample included 1581 participants (76% women; mean age = 43 years, SD = 14 years) and the SGP sample 1209 participants (58% women, mean age = 49 years, SD = 15 years). Adjusted for sex, age, and education, the CoWELL sample reported higher physical HRQOL (PCS, +5.8 (95% CI: 5.1, 6.6), p < 0.001) and lower mental HRQOL (MCS, -6.9 (-7.8, -6.0), p < 0.001) than the SGP sample. In the CoWELL sample, especially persons with lower health literacy, who had no support network or who have had COVID-19, reported lower HRQOL. DISCUSSION Aspects unique to the COVID-19 pandemic affected HRQOL. Vulnerable persons such as those having had COVID-19, less support opportunities, and with lower health literacy are especially prone to impaired HRQOL during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Roser
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland.
| | - Julia Baenziger
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Heart Centre for Children, The Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Center for Heart Disease and Mental Health, Heart Institute and the Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Anica Ilic
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Vera R Mitter
- Department of Gynaecology, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Luzius Mader
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Cancer Registry Bern-Solothurn, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 31, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Dyntar
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Swiss Childhood Cancer Registry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Gisela Michel
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Grit Sommer
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Loef B, van Oostrom SH, Bosma E, Proper KI. The mediating role of physical activity and sedentary behavior in the association between working from home and musculoskeletal pain during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1072030. [PMID: 36530694 PMCID: PMC9757165 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1072030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic has been associated both with physical inactivity and musculoskeletal pain. However, it has not been examined whether physical activity and sedentary behavior are underlying mechanisms in the association between working from home and musculoskeletal pain. Therefore, we examined their mediating role in this association. Methods Data were used from 24 questionnaire rounds of the Lifelines COVID-19 cohort (March 2020-January 2022). Longitudinal information on work situation (location, home, hybrid), physical activity, sedentary behavior, and musculoskeletal pain was collected among 28,586 workers. Analysis of physical activity/sedentary behavior as mediators of the association between working from home and musculoskeletal pain was performed using multilevel structural equation modeling. Results Home workers more often had pain in the upper back [odds ratio (OR) = 1.17, 95%-confidence interval (CI) = 1.02-1.34] and arm, neck, and/or shoulder (ANS) (OR = 1.32, 95%-CI = 1.19-1.47) than location workers. Furthermore, home workers were more often sedentary for >9 h per work day than location workers (OR = 2.82, 95%-CI = 2.56-3.09), and being more sedentary was associated with musculoskeletal pain (upper back: OR = 1.17, 95%-CI = 1.06-1.30; ANS: OR = 1.25, 95%-CI = 1.16-1.34). Corresponding indirect effects were OR = 1.18 (95%-CI = 1.04-1.33) and OR = 1.26 (95%-CI = 1.12-1.35). No indirect effect was found for physical activity. Similar indirect effects were observed for hybrid workers. Conclusion Home and hybrid workers were more likely to have pain in the upper musculoskeletal system during the COVID-19 pandemic than location workers, which was partly mediated by increased sedentary behavior, but not by reduced physical activity. Measures to reduce sedentary time in home workers may contribute to preventing musculoskeletal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bette Loef
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Sandra H. van Oostrom
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Esmee Bosma
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Karin I. Proper
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Muto G, Nakata A, Park DU, Yokoyama K. Occupational safety and health of flexible work style. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2022; 60:293-294. [PMID: 35675993 PMCID: PMC9453569 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.60_400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Go Muto
- Kitasato University, Japan
- Chiba University, Japan
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Perceived privacy in home office and musculoskeletal complaints: a test of family–work conflict, work–family conflict, and relaxation as mediators. SN SOCIAL SCIENCES 2022; 2:242. [PMID: 36339528 PMCID: PMC9616623 DOI: 10.1007/s43545-022-00553-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Many employees have had to telework all year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though working from home has many advantages, there are also some disadvantages worth to consider. Lack of privacy is a relevant factor when it comes to the development of severe musculoskelatal issues. This study investigated the link between perceived privacy in home office and musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs). Family–work conflict (FWC), work–family conflict (WFC), and relaxation were tested as potential mediators for the relationship between perceived privacy and MSCs. The present study’s questionnaire was filled out by 287 teleworking employees. Hypotheses were tested via multiple mediation analyses examining levels of perceived privacy in home office, and its relationship on MSCs. Furthermore, the underlying effect of FWC, WFC, and MSCs were tested with a structural equation model. As assumed, lack of privacy while working at home was linked to individuals more frequently experiencing MSCs. However, the structural equation model showed no significant mediation effect. Work design efforts must address privacy while employees perform telework at home to prevent MSCs.
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Wütschert MS, Pereira D, Schulze H, Elfering A. Working from home: Cognitive irritation as mediator of the link between perceived privacy and sleep problems. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2021; 59:308-317. [PMID: 34421105 PMCID: PMC8516628 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2021-0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, many employees have been required to work full or part-time at home. This paper investigates the impact of perceived privacy on cognitive irritation and sleep problems among employees who worked from home during the pandemic. Additionally, we analyzed the role of cognitive irritation as a mediator between privacy and sleep problems. We created a cross-sectional questionnaire, which was completed by 293 employees who performed home-based telework in German-speaking Switzerland. A mediation analysis was then conducted using a multiple regression analysis. A test of the indirect effect showed a significant mediation path from perceived privacy via cognitive irritation to sleep problems. Hence, the negative indirect effect indicates that perceived privacy is an important job resource that may prevent sleep problems. Further research is needed regarding home-based telework and recovery strategies to prevent sleep problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana Pereira
- University of Applied Science of Bern BFH, Switzerland
| | - Hartmut Schulze
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern FHNW, Switzerland
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