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Hansson E, Jakobsson K, Glaser JR, Wesseling C, Chavarria D, Lucas RAI, Prince H, Wegman DH. Response to: Letter to the Editor-Productivity as an efficacy measure in rest-shade-hydration interventions: the need for a more complete dissemination and implementation science approach by Dally M and Newman LS. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:668-671. [PMID: 38829828 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hansson
- La Isla Network, 2219 California NW Unit 52, 20008 Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 414, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- La Isla Network, 2219 California NW Unit 52, 20008 Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 414, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Box 414, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jason R Glaser
- La Isla Network, 2219 California NW Unit 52, 20008 Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Catharina Wesseling
- La Isla Network, 2219 California NW Unit 52, 20008 Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Denis Chavarria
- Occupational Health Management, Ingenio San Antonio/Nicaragua Sugar Estates Limited, Km. 119 Carretera León-Chinandega, Chichigalpa, Nicaragua
| | - Rebekah A I Lucas
- La Isla Network, 2219 California NW Unit 52, 20008 Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Heath Prince
- La Isla Network, 2219 California NW Unit 52, 20008 Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- LBJ School of Public Affairs, University of Texas at Austin, 2315 Red River St, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - David H Wegman
- La Isla Network, 2219 California NW Unit 52, 20008 Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, 1 University Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854, United States
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Chapman CL, Johnson BD, Hostler DP, Schlader ZJ. Diagnostic accuracy of thermal, hydration, and heart rate assessments in discriminating positive acute kidney injury risk following physical work in the heat. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2024; 21:326-341. [PMID: 38512776 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2024.2315161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Occupational heat stress increases the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). This study presents a secondary analysis to generate novel hypotheses for future studies by investigating the diagnostic accuracy of thermal, hydration, and heart rate assessments in discriminating positive AKI risk following physical work in the heat in unacclimatized individuals. Unacclimatized participants (n = 13, 3 women, age: ∼23 years) completed four trials involving 2 h of exercise in a 39.7 ± 0.6 °C, 32 ± 3% relative humidity environment that differed by experimental manipulation of hyperthermia (i.e., cooling intervention) and dehydration (i.e., water drinking). Diagnostic accuracy was assessed via receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Positive AKI risk was identified when the product of concentrations insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 [IGFBP7∙TIMP-2] exceeded 0.3 (ng∙mL-1)2∙1000-1. Peak absolute core temperature had the acceptable discriminatory ability (AUC = 0.71, p = 0.009), but a relatively large variance (AUC 95% CI: 0.57-0.86). Mean body temperature, urine specific gravity, urine osmolality, peak heart rate, and the peak percent of both maximum heart rate and heart rate reserve had poor discrimination (AUC = 0.66-0.69, p ≤ 0.051). Mean skin temperature, percent change in body mass and plasma volume, and serum sodium and osmolality had no discrimination (p ≥ 0.072). A peak increase in mean skin temperature of >4.7 °C had a positive likelihood ratio of 11.0 which suggests clinical significance. These data suggest that the absolute value of peak core temperature and the increase in mean skin temperature may be valuable to pursue in future studies as a biomarker for AKI risk in unacclimatized workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Chapman
- Military Performance Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts
- Thermal and Mountain Medicine Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
| | - Blair D Johnson
- Department of Kinesiology, School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - David P Hostler
- Department of Exercise & Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Zachary J Schlader
- Department of Kinesiology, School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
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Stem AD, Gibb M, Roncal-Jimenez CA, Johnson RJ, Brown JM. Health burden of sugarcane burning on agricultural workers and nearby communities. Inhal Toxicol 2024; 36:327-342. [PMID: 38349733 PMCID: PMC11260540 DOI: 10.1080/08958378.2024.2316875] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Sugarcane is the most widely cultivated crop in the world, with equatorial developing nations performing most of this agriculture. Burning sugarcane is a common practice to facilitate harvest, producing extremely high volumes of respirable particulate matter in the process. These emissions are known to have deleterious effects on agricultural workers and nearby communities, but the extent of this exposure and potential toxicity remain poorly characterized. As the epidemicof chronic kidney disease of an unknown etiology (CKDu) and its associated mortality continue to increase along with respiratory distress, there is an urgent need to investigate the causes, determine viable interventions to mitigate disease andimprove outcomes for groups experiencing disproportionate impact. The goal of this review is to establish the state of available literature, summarize what is known in terms of human health risk, and provide recommendations for what areas should be prioritized in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur D. Stem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Matthew Gibb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Carlos A. Roncal-Jimenez
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension,University of
Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Richard J. Johnson
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension,University of
Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Jared M. Brown
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
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Hansson E, Jakobsson K, Glaser JR, Wesseling C, Chavarría D, Lucas RAI, Wegman DH. Association Between Acute Kidney Injury Hospital Visits and Environmental Heat Stress at a Nicaraguan Sugarcane Plantation. Workplace Health Saf 2024; 72:131-142. [PMID: 38591368 PMCID: PMC11055406 DOI: 10.1177/21650799241235410] [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] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesoamerican sugarcane cutters are at a high risk of chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin, a disease likely linked to heat-related acute kidney injury (AKI). Studies in general populations have described a positive association between high environmental temperatures and clinically assessed kidney outcomes, but there are no studies in occupational settings. METHOD We accessed routine records of clinically diagnosed AKI (AKI-CD) and wet bulb globe temperatures (WBGT) at a large Nicaraguan sugarcane plantation and modeled the relationship between these using negative binomial regression. A rest-shade-hydration intervention was gradually enhanced during the study period, and efforts were made to increase the referral of workers with suspected AKI to healthcare. RESULTS Each 1°C WBGT was associated with an 18% (95% confidence interval [CI]: [4, 33%]) higher AKI-CD rate on the same day and a 14% (95% CI [-5, 37%]) higher rate over a week. AKI-CD rates and severity, and time between symptoms onset and diagnosis decreased during the study period, that is, with increasing rest-shade-hydration intervention. Symptoms and biochemical signs of systemic inflammation were common among AKI-CD cases. DISCUSSION Occupational heat stress, resulting from heavy work in environmental heat, was associated with a higher rate of clinically diagnosed AKI in a population at risk of CKDnt. Promoting rest-shade-hydration may have contributed to reducing AKI rates during the study period. Occupational health and safety personnel have key roles to play in enforcing rest, shade, and hydration practices, referring workers with suspected AKI to healthcare as well as collecting and analyzing the data needed to support workplace heat stress interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hansson
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Catharina Wesseling
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Denis Chavarría
- Occupational Health Management, Ingenio San Antonio/Nicaragua Sugar Estates Limited, Chichigalpa, Nicaragua
| | - Rebekah A. I. Lucas
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - David H. Wegman
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
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5
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N SVSC, Xu Z. Heat and health of occupational workers: a short summary of literature. J Occup Health 2024; 66:uiae018. [PMID: 38604180 PMCID: PMC11131018 DOI: 10.1093/joccuh/uiae018] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, occupational workers suffer various health impacts due to extreme heat. In this short review, we examine the literature discussing health impacts of heat on occupational workers, and then discuss certain individual and institutional measures needed to address the problem. Though the available literature in the recent decade discusses health impacts of heat on workers as various heat-related illnesses, we found very few studies examining how occupational workers suffer from issues concerning cardiovascular health, neurological health, respiratory health, and mental health. In this regard, we highlight the need for more studies to examine how occupational workers exposed to extreme heat conditions suffer from fatal health issues like cardiovascular attack, brain stroke, and other ailments impacting vital organs of the body. Occupational workers across the world should be made aware of measures to protect themselves from extreme heat. Further, countries should develop occupational heat safety guidelines with statutory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Venkata Sarath Chandra N
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Parklands Drive, Southport, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Zhiwei Xu
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Parklands Drive, Southport, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, QLD 4222, Australia
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Strasma A, Reyes ÁM, Aragón A, López I, Park LP, Hogan SL, Thielman N, Wyatt C, González-Quiroz M. Kidney disease characteristics, prevalence, and risk factors in León, Nicaragua: a population-based study. BMC Nephrol 2023; 24:335. [PMID: 37953252 PMCID: PMC10641961 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-023-03381-1] [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: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CKD of unknown etiology (CKDu) disproportionately affects young people in Central America who lack traditional CKD risk factors (diabetes and hypertension) and has instead been variably linked to heat stress, occupational and environmental exposures, nephrotoxic medications, and/or genetic susceptibility. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of CKD and identify risk factors for traditional CKD and CKDu in Nicaragua. METHODS Surveys and assessment for CKD markers in urine and serum were performed in 15-59 year olds in households of the León municipality of Nicaragua. The survey included questions on demographics, health behaviors, occupation, and medical history. Participants with CKD were subdivided into traditional CKD and suspected CKDu based on history of diabetes, hypertension, or other specified conditions. A multinomial logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with traditional CKD and suspected CKDu, compared to the non-CKD reference group. RESULTS In 1795 study participants, CKD prevalence was 8.6%. Prevalence in males was twofold higher than females (12% vs 6%). Of those with CKD, 35% had suspected CKDu. Both traditional CKD and CKDu were associated with male sex and increasing age. Traditional CKD was associated with a family history of CKD, history of urinary tract infections, and lower socioeconomic status, while CKDu was associated with drinking well water and a lower body mass index. CONCLUSIONS Both traditional CKD and CKDu are significant burdens in this region. Our study supports previous hypotheses of CKDu etiology and emphasizes the importance of CKD screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Strasma
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Ángel Mejía Reyes
- Bioanalysis and Immunology Research Group, National Autonomous University of Honduras, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | - Aurora Aragón
- WUQU' KAWOQ, Maya Health Alliance, Chimaltenango, Guatemala
| | - Indiana López
- WUQU' KAWOQ, Maya Health Alliance, Chimaltenango, Guatemala
| | - Lawrence P Park
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Susan L Hogan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension and the UNC Kidney Center, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Nathan Thielman
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christina Wyatt
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Marvin González-Quiroz
- WUQU' KAWOQ, Maya Health Alliance, Chimaltenango, Guatemala
- Department of Renal Medicine, University College London, London, UK
- School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo, Riobamba, Ecuador
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Venugopal V, Lennqvist R, Latha PK, Shanmugam R, Krishnamoorthy M, Selvaraj N, Balakrishnan R, Omprashant R, Purty AJ, Bazroy J, Glaser J, Jakobsson K. Occupational Heat Stress and Kidney Health in Salt Pan Workers. Kidney Int Rep 2023; 8:1363-1372. [PMID: 37441492 PMCID: PMC10334398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2023.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Work in heat affects millions of workers. Although kidney function in agricultural workers is increasingly researched, nonagricultural studies are scarce. In coastal salt pans, the absence of occupational exposures to pesticides and other toxicants allows assessment of heat stress alone. Methods Seven Indian salt pans were surveyed from 2017 to 2020. Job-specific workload was assessed. Heat stress was characterized as exceeding the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT)-threshold limit value (TLV) for high and moderate workloads. Preshift and postshift heart rates (HRs), tympanic temperatures, and urine specific gravity (USG) were measured for 352 workers, as were sweat rates (SwR), serum creatinine (SCr), serum uric acid, and urine dipstick. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; ml/min per 1.73 m2) was computed. Heat-strain symptoms were assessed using questionnaires. Results The mean WBGT was 30.5 ± 1.3 °C (summer) and 27.8 ± 1.9 °C (winter). Water intake during the workday was low, median was one Litre, and most workers (87%) exceeded the TLV for heat stress. Dehydration-related symptoms were frequent in those with high-heat stress, as were cross-shift increases in temperature (≥1°C; 15%), a high USG (≥1.020; 28%), and a high SwR (≥1 l/h; 53%). An eGFR of 60 to 89 ml/min per 1.73 m2 was observed in 41% of all workers examined, and 7% had eGFR below 60 ml/min per 1.73 m2. The odds ratio for eGFR <90 ml/min per 1.73 m2 in workers exceeding the TLV, compared to workers below this limit, adjusted for age and gender was 2.9 (95% CI: 1.3-6.4). Conclusion Workplace interventions to prevent heat stress and dehydration in the salt pans and other at-risk industries are urgently required. The findings strengthen the notion that high-heat stress and limited hydration is a risk factor for kidney dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhya Venugopal
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Robin Lennqvist
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - PK Latha
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Rekha Shanmugam
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Manikandan Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Nandhini Selvaraj
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Rajagurusamy Balakrishnan
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - R. Omprashant
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Anil Jacob Purty
- Department of Community Medicine, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Puducherry, India
| | - Joy Bazroy
- Department of Community Medicine, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Kristina Jakobsson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- La Isla Network, Washington, USA
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Petropoulos ZE, Keogh SA, Jarquín E, López-Pilarte D, Amador Velázquez JJ, García-Trabanino R, Amador Sánchez MR, Guevara R, Gruener A, Allen DR, Leibler JH, Delgado IS, McClean MD, Friedman DJ, Brooks DR, Scammell MK. Heat stress and heat strain among outdoor workers in El Salvador and Nicaragua. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2023; 33:622-630. [PMID: 37041408 PMCID: PMC10403352 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-023-00537-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing attention on occupational heat stress in Central America, as workers in this region are affected by a unique form of chronic kidney disease. Previous studies have examined wet bulb globe temperatures and estimated metabolic rates to assess heat stress, but there are limited data characterizing heat strain among these workers. OBJECTIVE The aims were to characterize heat stress and heat strain and examine whether job task, break duration, hydration practices, and kidney function were associated with heat strain. METHODS We used data from the MesoAmerican Nephropathy Occupational Study, a cohort of 569 outdoor workers in El Salvador and Nicaragua who underwent workplace exposure monitoring, including continuous measurement of core body temperature (Tc), heart rate (HR), physical activity, and wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT), over the course of three days in January 2018 - May 2018. Participants represented five industries: sugarcane, corn, plantain, brickmaking, and construction. RESULTS Median WBGTs were relatively high (>27 °C) at most sites, particularly when work shifts spanned the afternoon hours (e.g., 29.2 °C among plantain workers). Sugarcane workers, especially cane cutters in both countries and Nicaraguan agrichemical applicators, had the highest estimated metabolic rates (medians: 299-318 kcal/hr). Most workers spent little time on break (<10% of the shift), as determined by physical activity data. Overall, sugarcane workers-particularly those in Nicaragua-experienced the highest Tc and HR values. However, a few workers in other industries reached high Tc (>39 °C) as well. Impaired kidney function (estimated glomerular filtration rate <90 mL/min/1.73 m2) was associated with higher Tc and HR values, even after adjustment. SIGNIFICANCE This is the largest study to-date examining heat stress and strain among outdoor workers in Central America. Workers at sugar companies regularly experienced Tc > 38°C (76.9% of monitored person-days at Nicaraguan companies; 46.5% at Salvadoran companies). Workers with impaired kidney function had higher measures of Tc and HR. IMPACT STATEMENT This study examined levels of occupational heat stress and heat strain experienced among outdoor workers in five industries in El Salvador and Nicaragua. We characterized heat stress using wet bulb globe temperatures and estimated metabolic rate and heat strain using core body temperature and heart rate. Sugarcane workers, particularly cane cutters and Nicaraguan agrichemical applicators, performed more strenuous work and experienced greater levels of heat strain. Impaired kidney function was associated with higher heart rates and core body temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe E Petropoulos
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Sinead A Keogh
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emmanuel Jarquín
- Agencia para el Desarrollo y la Salud Agropecuaria (AGDYSA), San Salvador, El Salvador
| | - Damaris López-Pilarte
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Ramón García-Trabanino
- Agencia para el Desarrollo y la Salud Agropecuaria (AGDYSA), San Salvador, El Salvador
- Centro de Hemodiálisis, San Salvador, El Salvador
- Emergency Social Fund for Health, Tierra Blanca, El Salvador
| | | | - Raúl Guevara
- Agencia para el Desarrollo y la Salud Agropecuaria (AGDYSA), San Salvador, El Salvador
| | - Alexa Gruener
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dustin R Allen
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessica H Leibler
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Iris S Delgado
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael D McClean
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David J Friedman
- Division of Nephrology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel R Brooks
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Madeleine K Scammell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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H Hathaway M, L Patil C, Odhiambo A, Onyango D, Dorevitch S. Prevalence and predictors of chronic kidney disease of undetermined causes (CKDu) in Western Kenya's "sugar belt": a cross-sectional study. BMC Nephrol 2023; 24:157. [PMID: 37280533 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-023-03213-2] [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: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemics of chronic kidney disease of undetermined causes (CKDu) among young male agricultural workers have been observed in many tropical regions. Western Kenya has similar climatic and occupational characteristics as many of those areas. The study objectives were to characterize prevalence and predictors of CKDu, such as, HIV, a known cause of CKD, in a sugarcane growing region of Kenya; and to estimate prevalence of CKDu across occupational categories and evaluate if physically demanding work or sugarcane work are associated with reduced eGFR. METHODS The Disadvantaged Populations eGFR Epidemiology Study (DEGREE) protocol was followed in a cross-sectional study conducted in Kisumu County, Western Kenya. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of reduced eGFR. RESULTS Among 782 adults the prevalence of eGFR < 90 was 9.85%. Among the 612 participants without diabetes, hypertension, and heavy proteinuria the prevalence of eGFR < 90 was 8.99% (95%CI 6.8%, 11.5%) and 0.33% (95%CI 0.04%, 1.2%) had eGFR < 60. Among the 508 participants without known risk factors for reduced eGFR (including HIV), the prevalence of eGFR < 90 was 5.12% (95%CI 3.4%, 7.4%); none had eGFR < 60. Significant risk factors for reduced eGFR were sublocation, age, body mass index, and HIV. No association was found between reduced eGFR and work in the sugarcane industry, as a cane cutter, or in physically demanding occupations. CONCLUSION CKDu is not a common public health problem in this population, and possibly this region. We recommend that future studies should consider HIV to be a known cause of reduced eGFR. Factors other than equatorial climate and work in agriculture may be important determinants of CKDu epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle H Hathaway
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, 1603 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Crystal L Patil
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, 845 S. Damen Ave., MC 802, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Aloyce Odhiambo
- Safe Water and AIDS Project, Behind Royal City Garden Hotel, Milimani Estate, Off Aga Khan Road, P.O. Box, Kisumu, 3323-40100, Kenya
| | - Dickens Onyango
- County Department of Health, County Government of Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Samuel Dorevitch
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, 1603 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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10
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Geladari E, Vallianou N, Geladari C, Aronis K, Vlachos K, Andreadis E, Theocharopoulos I, Dourakis S. "Failing kidneys in a failing planet; CKD of unknown origin". REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2023; 38:125-135. [PMID: 34881546 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2021-0109] [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: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The 'alarm clock' for human beings in the era of climate medicine has rung. Original diseases have appeared, that could not be explained and attributed to common causes, which are suggested to be linked to global warming and environmental factors. Such an indolent disease is the chronic kidney disease of unknown cause (CKDu), introduced also as Mesoamerican or Uddanam nephropathy. Scientists equate the climate impact on kidneys with the canary in the coal mine; coal miners used to carry caged canaries with them, so that if poisonous gases, such as methane or carbon monoxide leaked into the mine-shaft, the gases would kill the canary before killing the miners; similarly, kidneys are injured before devastating and lethal complications occur in humans. In some regions of Central America, the deaths due to chronic kidney disease increased by 177% with a death toll being as high as over 20,000. It was first documented in animals that periodic heat and dehydration have a major role in causing chronic kidney disease. Based on that observation, it is advocated that young male agricultural workers in Central America and South Asia, develop renal disease by getting exposed to extreme heat repeatedly. The clinico-pathological characteristics of this type of kidney injury, do not belong to an existing classification, even though a form of tubulo-interstitial renal disease has been proposed. In this review, we will discuss about CKDu, its epidemiology and pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical presentation and diagnostic biomarkers and examine potential therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Geladari
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Attica, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Spyros Dourakis
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Attica, Greece
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11
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Hansson E, Broberg K, Wijkström J, Glaser J, Gonzalez-Quiroz M, Ekström U, Abrahamson M, Jakobsson K. An explorative study of inflammation-related proteins associated with kidney injury in male heat-stressed workers. J Therm Biol 2023; 112:103433. [PMID: 36796890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2022.103433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt) and acute kidney injury (AKI) often affect heat-stressed Mesoamerican manual workers. Inflammation occurs concurrently with AKI in this population, but its role remains unknown. To explore links between inflammation and kidney injury in heat stress, we compared levels of inflammation-related proteins in cutters with and without increasing serum creatinine levels during sugarcane harvest. These sugarcane cutters have previously been identified to be repeatedly exposed to severe heat stress during the five month harvest season. A nested case-control study was conducted among male Nicaraguan sugarcane cutters in a CKDnt hotspot. Cases (n = 30) were defined as having an increase in creatinine of ≥0.3 mg/dL across the five-month harvest. Controls (n = 57) had stable creatinine levels. Ninety-two inflammation-related proteins in serum were measured before and after harvest using Proximity Extension Assays. Mixed linear regression was used to identify differences in protein concentrations between cases and controls before harvest, differential trends during harvest, and association between protein concentrations and the urine kidney injury markers Kidney Injury Molecule (KIM)-1, Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein (MCP)-1 and albumin. One protein, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 23 (CCL23), was elevated among cases at pre-harvest. Changes in seven inflammation-related proteins (CCL19, CCL23, colony-stimulating factor 1 [CSF1], hepatocyte and fibroblast growth factors [HGF and FGF23], and tumor necrosis factor beta [TNFB] and TNF-related activation-induced cytokine [TRANCE]) were associated with case status and at least two out of three urine kidney injury markers (KIM-1, MCP-1 and albumin). Several of these have been implicated in myofibroblast activation, which likely is an important step in kidney interstitial fibrotic disease such as CKDnt. This study provides an initial exploration of immune system determinants of, and activation during, kidney injury experienced during prolonged heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hansson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden; La Isla Network, Washington, D.C., USA.
| | - Karin Broberg
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Julia Wijkström
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Marvin Gonzalez-Quiroz
- Department of Renal Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom; School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo, Riobamba, Ecuador
| | - Ulf Ekström
- La Isla Network, Washington, D.C., USA; Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Magnus Abrahamson
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden; La Isla Network, Washington, D.C., USA
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12
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Chersich MF, Scorgie F, Filippi V, Luchters S. Increasing global temperatures threaten gains in maternal and newborn health in Africa: A review of impacts and an adaptation framework. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023; 160:421-429. [PMID: 35906840 PMCID: PMC10087975 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Anatomical, physiologic, and socio-cultural changes during pregnancy and childbirth increase vulnerability of women and newborns to high ambient temperatures. Extreme heat can overwhelm thermoregulatory mechanisms in pregnant women, especially during labor, cause dehydration and endocrine dysfunction, and compromise placental function. Clinical sequelae include hypertensive disorders, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and stillbirth. High ambient temperatures increase rates of infections, and affect health worker performance and healthcare seeking. Rising temperatures with climate change and limited resources heighten concerns. We propose an adaptation framework containing four prongs. First, behavioral changes such as reducing workloads during pregnancy and using low-cost water sprays. Second, health system interventions encompassing Early Warning Systems centered around existing community-based outreach; heat-health indicator tracking; water supplementation and monitoring for heat-related conditions during labor. Building modifications, passive and active cooling systems, and nature-based solutions can reduce temperatures in facilities. Lastly, structural interventions and climate financing are critical. The overall package of interventions, ideally selected following cost-effectiveness and thermal modeling trade-offs, needs to be co-designed and co-delivered with affected communities, and take advantage of existing maternal and child health platforms. Robust-applied research will set the stage for programs across Africa that target pregnant women. Adequate research and climate financing are now urgent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew F Chersich
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Fiona Scorgie
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Veronique Filippi
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Stanley Luchters
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
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13
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Sasai F, Roncal-Jimenez C, Rogers K, Sato Y, Brown JM, Glaser J, Garcia G, Sanchez-Lozada LG, Rodriguez-Iturbe B, Dawson JB, Sorensen C, Hernando AA, Gonzalez-Quiroz M, Lanaspa M, Newman LS, Johnson RJ. Climate change and nephrology. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2023; 38:41-48. [PMID: 34473287 PMCID: PMC9869860 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfab258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Climate change should be of special concern for the nephrologist, as the kidney has a critical role in protecting the host from dehydration, but it is also a favorite target of heat stress and dehydration. Here we discuss how rising temperatures and extreme heat events may affect the kidney. The most severe presentation of heat stress is heat stroke, which can result in severe electrolyte disturbance and both acute and chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, lesser levels of heat stress also have multiple effects, including exacerbating kidney disease and precipitating cardiovascular events in subjects with established kidney disease. Heat stress can also increase the risk for kidney stones, cause multiple electrolyte abnormalities and induce both acute and chronic kidney disease. Recently there have been multiple epidemics of CKD of uncertain etiology in various regions of the world, including Mesoamerica, Sri Lanka, India and Thailand. There is increasing evidence that climate change and heat stress may play a contributory role in these conditions, although other causes, including toxins, could also be involved. As climate change worsens, the nephrologist should prepare for an increase in diseases associated with heat stress and dehydration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Sasai
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Carlos Roncal-Jimenez
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Keegan Rogers
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Yuka Sato
- Department of Nephrology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Jared M Brown
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Gabriela Garcia
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Bernardo Rodriguez-Iturbe
- Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiologia, Ignacio Chavez, Mexico City
- Instituto Nacional de Cencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán", Department of Nephrology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jaime Butler Dawson
- Center for Health, Work and Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Cecilia Sorensen
- Center for Health, Work and Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ana Andres Hernando
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Marvin Gonzalez-Quiroz
- Research Centre on Health, Work and Environment (CISTA), National Autonomous University of Nicaragua, León, Nicaragua
- Centre for Nephrology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Miguel Lanaspa
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lee S Newman
- Center for Health, Work and Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Richard J Johnson
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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14
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Hansson E, Wesseling C, Wegman D, Ekström U, Chavarria D, Glaser J, Jakobsson K. Point-of-care biomarkers for prediction of kidney function trajectory among sugarcane cutters: a comparative test accuracy study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060364. [PMID: 36400724 PMCID: PMC9677021 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-060364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Heat-stressed Mesoamerican workers, such as sugarcane cutters, suffer from high rates of chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt). We aimed to identify easily available early markers of rapid kidney function decline in a population at high risk of CKDnt. DESIGN The accuracy of different biomarkers measured during harvest for prediction of cross-harvest kidney function decline were assessed in an exploratory study group, and the performance of the most promising biomarker was then assessed in an independent confirmation group. SETTING Male sugarcane cutters in El Salvador and Nicaragua. PARTICIPANTS 39 male Salvadoran sugarcane cutters sampled fortnightly at ≤9 occasions before and after work shift during harvest. 371 male Nicaraguan sugarcane cutters were sampled as part of routine monitoring during two harvests. Cutters worked at high physical intensity at wet-bulb globe temperatures mostly above 29°C for 6-8 hours per day 6 days a week during the 5-6 months harvest season. PRIMARY OUTCOMES Change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (CKD Epidemiology Collaboration) across the harvest season (ΔeGFRcross-harvest). RESULTS Dipstick leukocyturia after work shift in the El Salvadoran group was the most promising marker, explaining >25% of ΔeGFRcross-harvest variance at 8/9 occasions during harvest. Leukocyturia was associated with experiencing fever, little or dark urine, cramps, headache, dizziness and abdominal pain in the preceding 2-week period. Decreasing blood haemoglobin (Hb) and eGFR during harvest were also predictive of ΔeGFRcross-harvest. In the Nicaraguan confirmation dataset, those having ≥++ leukocyturia at any sampling during harvest had a 13 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 10 to 16 mL/min/1.73 m2) worse ΔeGFRcross-harvest than those without recorded leukocyturia. CONCLUSION Leukocyturia and Hb, both measurable with point-of-care methods, may be early indicators for kidney injury and risk for eGFR decline among heat-stressed male workers, thereby facilitating individual-level prevention and research aiming to understand the causes of CKDnt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hansson
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Catharina Wesseling
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David Wegman
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ulf Ekström
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Denis Chavarria
- Occupational Health Management, Ingenio San Antonio/Nicaragua Sugar Estates Limited, Chichigalpa, Nicaragua
| | - Jason Glaser
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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15
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Aoun M, Chelala D. Where do you live and what do you do? Two questions that might impact your kidney health. FRONTIERS IN NEPHROLOGY 2022; 2:1011964. [PMID: 37675017 PMCID: PMC10479685 DOI: 10.3389/fneph.2022.1011964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
In many cases the social determinants of health need to be assessed through their interaction with environmental factors. This review looks at the impact of physical location and occupation of individuals on their kidney health. It examines the effect of living at high altitude on kidney function and the relationship between extreme cold or hot temperatures and the incidence of kidney injury. It reviews as well the many occupations that have been linked to kidney disease in high-income and low-and-middle-income countries. As a conclusion, this overview proposes preventive recommendations that could be individualized based on weather, altitude, socio-economic level of the country and occupation of the individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabel Aoun
- Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
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16
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Chavez Santos E, Spector JT, Egbert J, Krenz J, Sampson PD, Palmández P, Torres E, Blancas M, Carmona J, Jung J, Flunker JC. The effect of the participatory heat education and awareness tools (HEAT) intervention on agricultural worker physiological heat strain: results from a parallel, comparison, group randomized study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1746. [PMID: 36104813 PMCID: PMC9476265 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14144-2] [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: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Farmworkers are at risk of heat-related illness (HRI). We sought to: 1) evaluate the effectiveness of farmworker Spanish/English participatory heat education and a supervisor decision-support mobile application (HEAT intervention) on physiological heat strain; and 2) describe factors associated with HRI symptoms reporting. METHODS We conducted a parallel, comparison group intervention study from May-September of 2019 in Central/Eastern Washington State, USA. We used convenience sampling to recruit adult outdoor farmworkers and allocated participating crews to intervention (n = 37 participants) and alternative-training comparison (n = 38 participants) groups. We measured heat strain monthly using heart rate and estimated core body temperature to compute the maximum work-shift physiological strain index (PSImax) and assessed self-reported HRI symptoms using a weekly survey. Multivariable linear mixed effects models were used to assess associations of the HEAT intervention with PSImax, and bivariate mixed models were used to describe factors associated with HRI symptoms reported (0, 1, 2+ symptoms), with random effects for workers. RESULTS We observed larger decreases in PSImax in the intervention versus comparison group for higher work exertion levels (categorized as low, low/medium-low, and high effort), after adjustment for maximum work-shift ambient Heat Index (HImax), but this was not statistically significant (interaction - 0.91 for high versus low/medium-low effort, t = - 1.60, p = 0.11). We observed a higher PSImax with high versus low/medium-low effort (main effect 1.96, t = 3.81, p < 0.001) and a lower PSImax with older age (- 0.03, t = - 2.95, p = 0.004), after covariate adjustment. There was no clear relationship between PSImax and the number of HRI symptoms reported. Reporting more symptoms was associated with older age, higher HImax, 10+ years agricultural work, not being an H-2A guest worker, and walking > 3 min to get to the toilet at work. CONCLUSIONS Effort level should be addressed in heat management plans, for example through work/rest cycles, rotation, and pacing, in addition to education and other factors that influence heat stress. Both symptoms and indicators of physiological heat strain should be monitored, if possible, during periods of high heat stress to increase the sensitivity of early HRI detection and prevention. Structural barriers to HRI prevention must also be addressed. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Registration Number: NCT04234802 , date first posted 21/01/2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Chavez Santos
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - June T. Spector
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA
| | - Jared Egbert
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA ,grid.416237.50000 0004 0418 9357Department of Preventive Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Jennifer Krenz
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA
| | - Paul D. Sampson
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Pablo Palmández
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA
| | - Elizabeth Torres
- Northwest Communities Education Center/Radio KDNA, Granger, WA USA
| | - Maria Blancas
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA
| | - Jose Carmona
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA
| | - Jihoon Jung
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA
| | - John C. Flunker
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA
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17
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Zhang X, Zhang L, Wei C, Feng L, Yang J, Zhang G, Lu G, Gui X, Zhou Y, Yang K, Zhou J, Zhou X, Wang R, Chen S, Ji Y. U-shaped association between serum albumin and pediatric intensive care unit mortality in critically ill children. Front Nutr 2022; 9:931599. [PMID: 36110400 PMCID: PMC9468926 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.931599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The detailed association between albumin levels and mortality has not been studied in critically ill children. The aim of this study was to reveal an association between albumin levels in detail and mortality in critically ill children. Materials and methods We retrospectively collected data from children admitted to four pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in China between January 2015 and October 2020. Restricted cubic spline curves based on logistic regression models were generated to evaluate the detailed associations between serum albumin levels and PICU mortality. Threshold effect analysis was performed using two piecewise regression models. Results The study included 9,123 children. The overall mortality was 5.3%. The detailed association between serum albumin levels and the risk of mortality followed a U-shape. The risk of mortality decreased with increasing serum albumin levels (OR = 0.919; 95% CI: 0.886, 0.954) in children with serum albumin levels < 43.2 g/L and increased with increasing serum albumin levels (OR = 1.174; 95% CI: 1.044, 1.316) in children with serum albumin levels ≥ 43.2 g/L. Conclusion There was a U-shaped association between serum albumin levels and mortality in critically ill children in the PICU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuepeng Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mianyang Central Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China
| | - Lifan Zhang
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Canzheng Wei
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai’an, China
| | - Liwei Feng
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Juqin Yang
- Biobank, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Geng Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guoyan Lu
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, West China Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiying Gui
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, People’s Hospital of Tibet Autonomous Region, Lhasa, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kaiying Yang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiangyuan Zhou
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinle Zhou
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruoran Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Siyuan Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Siyuan Chen,
| | - Yi Ji
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Yi Ji,
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18
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Swaminathan S, Chacko B. 'A disease of disparity': chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology in endemic immigrant communities. Intern Med J 2022; 52:1437-1440. [PMID: 35881066 PMCID: PMC9542236 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15869] [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: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) of unknown aetiology is a form of tubulointerstitial CKD in the absence of traditional and known predisposing risk factors. Since the early 2000s, there is an emerging trend in marginalised agricultural communities among workers exposed to occupational and environmental hazards. CKD of unknown aetiology has received significant attention in recent years and is becoming increasingly relevant to the Australian medical community with the growing migrant population, which this case‐based communication illustrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shriram Swaminathan
- Nephrology and Transplantation Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bobby Chacko
- Nephrology and Transplantation Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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19
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Mizelle E, Larson K, Doherty C. Understanding Farmworker Fluid Intake Using Intersectionality Theory. New Solut 2022; 32:19-29. [PMID: 35229666 DOI: 10.1177/10482911221078964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, Latino farmworkers are disproportionately at risk for death from heat-related illnesses. To elicit Latino farmworker perceptions on their fluid intake and heat stress, a qualitative descriptive, community-informed research study was conducted in eastern North Carolina. A total of 28 Mexican farmworkers participated in one of 4 focus groups. Using content analysis and guided by Intersectionality theory, themes and subthemes were identified. The first theme was Absence of Protection, represented by 2 subthemes: (1a) Intense Climate Considerations; and (1b) Workplace Exploitation. The second theme, Freedom to Drink, included 2 subthemes: (2a) Distance and Distaste; and (2b) Culture of Farm Work. Farmworkers perceived extreme outdoor temperatures as the greatest workplace barrier to staying hydrated and reported water accessibility and quality issues. Farmworker fluid intake was influenced by interlocking social categories and power systems. Policy recommendations that prevent farmworker heat-related illness and promote hydration are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Mizelle
- Department of Baccalaureate Education, College of Nursing, 3627East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Kim Larson
- Department of Nursing Science, College of Nursing, 3627East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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20
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Crowe J, Rojas-Valverde D, Rojas-Garbanzo M, Gutiérrez-Vargas R, Ugalde-Ramírez JA, Ledezma-Rojas JP, Cabrera-Alpizar W, Salazar-Salazar M, Mauricio-La Torre R, Valera-Amador L, van Wendel de Joode B. Kidney Function in Rice Workers Exposed to Heat and Dehydration in Costa Rica. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19094962. [PMID: 35564355 PMCID: PMC9100597 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19094962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate heat exposure, dehydration, and kidney function in rice workers over the course of three months, in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. We collected biological and questionnaire data across a three-month-period in male field (n = 27) and other (n = 45) workers from a rice company where chronic kidney disease of unknown origin (CKDu) is endemic. We used stepwise forward regression to determine variables associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate eGFR at enrollment and/or change in eGFR, and Poisson regression to assess associations with incident kidney injury (IKI) over the course of three months. Participants were 20−62 years old (median = 40 in both groups). Dehydration was common (≥37%) in both groups, particularly among other workers at enrollment, but field workers were more exposed to heat and had higher workloads. Low eGFR (<60 mL/min/1.73 m2) was more prevalent in field workers at enrollment (19% vs. 4%) and follow-up (26% vs. 7%). Field workers experienced incident kidney injury (IKI) more frequently than other workers: 26% versus 2%, respectively. Age (β = −0.71, 95%CI: −1.1, −0.4), current position as a field worker (β = −2.75, 95%CI: −6.49, 0.99) and past work in construction (β = 3.8, 95%CI: −0.1, 7.6) were included in the multivariate regression model to explain eGFR at enrollment. The multivariate regression model for decreased in eGFR over three month included current field worker (β = −3.9, 95%CI: −8.2, 0.4), current smoking (β= −6.2, 95%CI: −13.7−1.3), dehydration (USG ≥ 1.025) at both visits (β= −3.19, 95%CI: −7.6, 1.2) and pain medication at follow-up (β= −3.2, 95%CI: −8.2, 1.95). Current fieldwork [IR (incidence rate) = 2.2, 95%CI 1.1, 5.8) and being diabetic (IR = 1.8, 95%CI 0.9, 3.6) were associated with IKI. Low eGFR was common in field workers from a rice company in Guanacaste, and being a field worker was a risk factor for IKI, consistent with the hypothesis that occupational heat exposure is a critical risk factor for CKDu in Mesoamerica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Crowe
- Central American Institute for Studies on Toxic Substances (IRET), Universidad Nacional, Heredia 40101, Costa Rica; (M.R.-G.); (B.v.W.d.J.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Daniel Rojas-Valverde
- Centro de Investigación y Diagnóstico en Salud y Deporte (CIDISAD), Escuela de Ciencias del Movimiento Humano y Calidad de Vida (CIEMHCAVI), Universidad Nacional, Heredia 40101, Costa Rica; (D.R.-V.); (R.G.-V.); (J.A.U.-R.); (W.C.-A.)
| | - Marianela Rojas-Garbanzo
- Central American Institute for Studies on Toxic Substances (IRET), Universidad Nacional, Heredia 40101, Costa Rica; (M.R.-G.); (B.v.W.d.J.)
| | - Randall Gutiérrez-Vargas
- Centro de Investigación y Diagnóstico en Salud y Deporte (CIDISAD), Escuela de Ciencias del Movimiento Humano y Calidad de Vida (CIEMHCAVI), Universidad Nacional, Heredia 40101, Costa Rica; (D.R.-V.); (R.G.-V.); (J.A.U.-R.); (W.C.-A.)
| | - José Alexis Ugalde-Ramírez
- Centro de Investigación y Diagnóstico en Salud y Deporte (CIDISAD), Escuela de Ciencias del Movimiento Humano y Calidad de Vida (CIEMHCAVI), Universidad Nacional, Heredia 40101, Costa Rica; (D.R.-V.); (R.G.-V.); (J.A.U.-R.); (W.C.-A.)
| | - José Pablo Ledezma-Rojas
- Masters Program in Occupational Health, Universidad Nacional-Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica, Heredia 40101, Costa Rica;
| | - William Cabrera-Alpizar
- Centro de Investigación y Diagnóstico en Salud y Deporte (CIDISAD), Escuela de Ciencias del Movimiento Humano y Calidad de Vida (CIEMHCAVI), Universidad Nacional, Heredia 40101, Costa Rica; (D.R.-V.); (R.G.-V.); (J.A.U.-R.); (W.C.-A.)
| | | | | | | | - Berna van Wendel de Joode
- Central American Institute for Studies on Toxic Substances (IRET), Universidad Nacional, Heredia 40101, Costa Rica; (M.R.-G.); (B.v.W.d.J.)
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21
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Alayyannur PA, Ramdhan DH. Relationship of heat stress with acute kidney disease and chronic kidney disease: A literature review. J Public Health Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/22799036221104149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Heat stress is a physical hazard and a potential health risk which can result in various conditions ranging from discomfort, headaches, psychological disorders, heat stroke and even death in extreme cases. Factors which cause heat stress include high ambient temperature, limited air movement, strenuous physical work and direct exposure to the heat of the engine/ sun. Continuous heat stress, exacerbated by dehydration, can lead to kidney disease. This study is a literature review conducted to explore factors that influence heat stress and the relationship of heat stress with acute kidney disease and chronic kidney disease. Methods: Literature search was conducted in September 2021. Research sources were taken from several databases, namely Science Direct, ProQuest, PubMed, and Google Scholar. From the databases, 23,316 articles were from Science Direct, 140,319 articles were from ProQuest, 670 articles were from PubMed, and 288,000 articles were from Google Scholars. Out of the total database only 24 articles met the inclusion criteria. The variables in this study were heat stress, acute kidney disease, and chronic kidney disease. Results: This literature review shows that several factors which can affect heat stress are heat exposure, workload, rehydration, and rest period arrangements. Heat stress experienced by workers can cause decreased kidney function and chronic kidney disease. Heat stress conditions that are continuously experienced by workers can cause chronic kidney disease. Conclusion: Heat stress can be experienced by workers due to heat exposure, heavy workload, poor rehydration, and poor rest period arrangements. Heat stress can cause acute kidney disease and chronic kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putri Ayuni Alayyannur
- Student of Doctoral Program, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, West Java, Indonesia
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Doni Hikmat Ramdhan
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, West Java, Indonesia
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22
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Andersson A, Hansson E, Ekström U, Grubb A, Abrahamson M, Jakobsson K, Xu Y. Large difference but high correlation between creatinine and cystatin C estimated glomerular filtration rate in Mesoamerican sugarcane cutters. Occup Environ Med 2022; 79:497-502. [PMID: 35354651 PMCID: PMC9209661 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2021-107990] [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: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the relationship between creatinine and cystatin C based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in actively working sugarcane cutters. METHODS This cohort study included 458 sugarcane cutters from Nicaragua and El Salvador. Serum samples were taken before and at end of harvest seasons and analysed for creatinine and cystatin C. Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) formulas were used to calculate eGFRs based on creatinine (eGFRcr), cystatin C (eGFRcys) and both creatinine and cystatin C (eGFRcrcys) at each time point. Bland-Altman plots and paired t-tests were used to compare the difference between eGFRcr and eGFRcys, and the difference in eGFRs between before and at end of the harvest seasons. RESULTS The mean eGFRcr was higher than eGFRcys in both cohorts; absolute difference 22 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 21 to 23) in Nicaragua and 13 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 11 to 15) in El Salvador. Correlations between eGFRcr and eGFRcys were high, with r=0.69, 0.77 and 0.67 in Nicaragua at pre-harvest, end-harvest and cross-harvest, and r=0.89, 0.89 and 0.49 in El Salvador. CONCLUSIONS Creatinine increases among heat-stressed workers reflect reduced glomerular filtration as estimated using eGFRcys, a marker independent of muscle mass and metabolism. The discrepancy between eGFRcr and eGFRcys may indicate reduced glomerular filtration of larger molecules and/or systemic bias in CKD-EPI performance in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Andersson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden .,La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Erik Hansson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden.,La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Ulf Ekström
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anders Grubb
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Kristina Jakobsson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Yiyi Xu
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
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23
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Glaser J, Wegman DH, Arias-Monge E, Pacheco-Zenteno F, Prince H, Chavarria D, Martinez-Cuadra WJ, Jakobsson K, Hansson E, Lucas RAI, Weiss I, Wesseling C. Workplace Intervention for Heat Stress: Essential Elements of Design, Implementation, and Assessment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073779. [PMID: 35409463 PMCID: PMC8998134 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heat stress is associated with numerous health effects that potentially harm workers, especially in a warming world. This investigation occurred in a setting where laborers are confronted with occupational heat stress from physically demanding work in high environmental temperatures. Collaboration with a major Nicaraguan sugarcane producer offered the opportunity to study interventions to prevent occupational heat-stress-related kidney disease. Two aims for this study of a rest-shade-water intervention program were: (1) describe the evolving intervention, summarize findings that motivated proposed improvements, assess impact of those improvements, and identify challenges to successful implementation and (2) extract primary lessons learned about intervention research that have both general relevance to investigations of work-related disease prevention and specific relevance to this setting. The learning curve for the various stakeholders as well as the barriers to success demonstrate that effectiveness of an intervention cannot be adequately assessed without considerations of implementation. Designing, effectively implementing, and assessing both health impacts and implementation quality is a resource-intensive endeavor requiring a transdisciplinary approach. Both general and specific lessons learned are presented for decisions on study design and study elements, implementation assessment, and management engagement in understanding how productivity and health can be successfully balanced and for building effective communication between investigators and all levels of management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Glaser
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (D.H.W.); Tel.: +1-(347)-585-7465 (J.G.); +1-(617)-921-1506 (D.H.W.)
| | - David H. Wegman
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (D.H.W.); Tel.: +1-(347)-585-7465 (J.G.); +1-(617)-921-1506 (D.H.W.)
| | - Esteban Arias-Monge
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
- Unidad de Gestión Ambiental y Seguridad Laboral, Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica, 15th Street, 14th Avenue, Cartago 159-7050, Costa Rica
| | - Felipe Pacheco-Zenteno
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden;
| | - Heath Prince
- Ray Marshall Center, LBJ School of Public Affairs, University of Texas at Austin, 3001 Lake Austin Blvd., Ste. 3.200, Austin, TX 78703, USA;
| | - Denis Chavarria
- Occupational Health, Ingenio San Antonio, Chinandega 26100, Nicaragua;
| | - William Jose Martinez-Cuadra
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden;
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Erik Hansson
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden;
| | - Rebekah A. I. Lucas
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ilana Weiss
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
| | - Catharina Wesseling
- La Isla Network, 2219 California Ave NW, #52, Washington, DC 20008, USA; (E.A.-M.); (W.J.M.-C.); (K.J.); (E.H.); (R.A.I.L.); (I.W.); (C.W.)
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 4, 113 65 Stockholm, Sweden
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24
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El Khayat M, Halwani DA, Hneiny L, Alameddine I, Haidar MA, Habib RR. Impacts of Climate Change and Heat Stress on Farmworkers' Health: A Scoping Review. Front Public Health 2022; 10:782811. [PMID: 35211437 PMCID: PMC8861180 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.782811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the continuous rise of global temperatures and heatwaves worldwide as a result of climate change, concerns for the health and safety of working populations have increased. Workers in the food production chain, particularly farmworkers, are especially vulnerable to heat stress due to the strenuous nature of their work, which is performed primarily outdoors under poor working conditions. At the cross-section of climate change and farmworkers' health, a scoping review was undertaken to summarize the existing knowledge regarding the health impacts associated with climate change and heat stress, guide future research toward better understanding current and future climate change risks, and inform policies to protect the health and safety of agricultural workers. A systematic search of 5 electronic databases and gray literature websites was conducted to identify relevant literature published up until December 2021. A total of 9045 records were retrieved from the searches, of which 92 articles were included in the final review. The majority of the reviewed articles focused on heat-related illnesses (n = 57) and kidney diseases (n = 28). The risk factors identified in the reviewed studies included gender, dehydration, heat strain, wearing inappropriate clothing, workload, piece-rate payment, job decision latitude, and hot environmental conditions. On the other hand, various protective and preventive factors were identified including drinking water, changing work hours and schedule of activities, wearing appropriate clothing, reducing soda consumption, taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and increasing electrolyte consumption in addition to improving access to medical care. This review also identified various factors that are unique to vulnerable agricultural populations, including migrant and child farmworkers. Our findings call for an urgent need to expand future research on vulnerable agricultural communities including migrant workers so as to develop effective policies and interventions that can protect these communities from the effects of heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moussa El Khayat
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dana A. Halwani
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Layal Hneiny
- Saab Medical Library, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ibrahim Alameddine
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mustapha A. Haidar
- Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rima R. Habib
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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25
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Egbert J, Krenz J, Sampson PD, Jung J, Calkins M, Zhang K, Palmández P, Faestel P, Spector JT. Accuracy of an estimated core temperature algorithm for agricultural workers. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2022; 77:809-818. [PMID: 35114899 PMCID: PMC9346099 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2022.2033672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There is a substantial burden of occupational health effects from heat exposure. We sought to assess the accuracy of estimated core body temperature (CBTest) derived from an algorithm that uses sequential heart rate and initializing CBT,1 compared with gastrointestinal temperature measured using more invasive ingestible sensors (CBTgi), among outdoor agricultural workers. We analyzed CBTest and CBTgi data from Washington State, USA, pear and apple harvesters collected across one work shift in 2015 (13,413 observations, 35 participants) using Bland Altman methods. The mean (standard deviation, range) CBTgi was 37.7 (0.4, 36.5-39.4)°C. Overall CBT bias (limits of agreement) was -0.14 (±0.76)°C. Biases ranged from -0.006 to -0.75 °C. The algorithm, which does not require the use of ingestible sensors, may be a practical tool in research among groups of workers for evaluating the effectiveness of interventions to prevent adverse occupational heat health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared Egbert
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jennifer Krenz
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Paul D. Sampson
- Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jihoon Jung
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Miriam Calkins
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering - Field Research Branch, National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Pablo Palmández
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Paul Faestel
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, USA
| | - June T. Spector
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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26
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Smith DJ, Mac V, Thompson LM, Plantinga L, Kasper L, Hertzberg VS. Using Occupational Histories to Assess Heat Exposure in Undocumented Workers Receiving Emergent Renal Dialysis in Georgia. Workplace Health Saf 2022; 70:251-258. [PMID: 35112607 DOI: 10.1177/21650799211060695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immigrants often work in jobs that are known as dirty, demanding, and dangerous. Globally, the agricultural occupations have been associated with the emergence of chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) primarily in outdoor worker populations. The disease has also been reported in immigrants in the United States who work in agricultural occupations, but little research has been done outside of agricultural workers to determine whether immigrants who work other occupations are at risk for developing CKDu. METHODS This study assessed the self-reported occupational histories of undocumented immigrants receiving frequent, emergent-only dialysis in Atlanta, GA. We assessed demographics, employment status, and work history, using the Grady Dialysis Questionnaire and the Occupational/Environmental Health History Form. RESULTS Fifty undocumented immigrants receiving frequent, emergent-only hemodialysis were recruited for this study. The average age was 49.5 years (SD ± 11.5), and the majority (52%) were female and originated from Mexico (66%). A majority (74%) reported having worked in the past 5 years and 28% reported currently working. A total of 68 unique jobs were reported. In decreasing order of frequency, our sample worked in occupations with documented renal toxicant exposures, such as applying pesticides in landscaping, heat exposure in agriculture, construction, landscaping, and dry cleaning, and lead paint fumes in construction. DISCUSSION Occupational histories provide a greater understanding of the exposures and working conditions of those receiving frequent, emergent-only hemodialysis. This exploratory study suggests that further research is needed to investigate and assess whether renal toxicants are associated with occupations with high numbers of undocumented workers. APPLICATION TO PRACTICE A detailed and thorough occupational history should be conducted from those receiving frequent, emergent-only hemodialysis. Developing continuing education for nursing and medical staff in dialysis centers on taking an occupational history, mandatory State reporting requirements, and hazard communication training for workers should be considered. Collaborations between occupational health professionals, public health authorities, employers, dialysis providers, and clinicians who see undocumented workers is required to understand and develop appropriate prevention measures for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Smith
- Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
| | - Valerie Mac
- Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
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27
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Shi DS, Weaver VM, Hodgson MJ, Tustin AW. Hospitalised heat-related acute kidney injury in indoor and outdoor workers in the USA. Occup Environ Med 2021; 79:184-191. [PMID: 34750240 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2021-107933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterise heat-related acute kidney injury (HR-AKI) among US workers in a range of industries. METHODS Two data sources were analysed: archived case files of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Office of Occupational Medicine and Nursing from 2010 through 2020; and a Severe Injury Reports (SIR) database of work-related hospitalisations that employers reported to federal OSHA from 2015 to 2020. Confirmed, probable and possible cases of HR-AKI were ascertained by serum creatinine measurements and narrative incident descriptions. Industry-specific incidence rates of HR-AKI were computed. A capture-recapture analysis assessed under-reporting in SIR. RESULTS There were 608 HR-AKI cases, including 22 confirmed cases and 586 probable or possible cases. HR-AKI occurred in indoor and outdoor industries including manufacturing, construction, mail and package delivery, and solid waste collection. Among confirmed cases, 95.2% were male, 50.0% had hypertension and 40.9% were newly hired workers. Incidence rates of AKI hospitalisations from 1.0 to 2.5 hours per 100 000 workers per year were observed in high-risk industries. Analysis of overlap between the data sources found that employers reported only 70.6% of eligible HR-AKI hospitalisations to OSHA, and only 41.2% of reports contained a consistent diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Workers were hospitalised with HR-AKI in diverse industries, including indoor facilities. Because of under-reporting and underascertainment, national surveillance databases underestimate the true burden of occupational HR-AKI. Clinicians should consider kidney risk from recurrent heat stress. Employers should provide interventions, such as comprehensive heat stress prevention programmes, that include acclimatisation protocols for new workers, to prevent HR-AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallas S Shi
- Office of Occupational Medicine and Nursing, Directorate of Technical Support and Emergency Management, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Virginia M Weaver
- Office of Occupational Medicine and Nursing, Directorate of Technical Support and Emergency Management, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael J Hodgson
- Office of Occupational Medicine and Nursing, Directorate of Technical Support and Emergency Management, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Aaron W Tustin
- Office of Occupational Medicine and Nursing, Directorate of Technical Support and Emergency Management, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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28
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Tustin A, Sayeed Y, Berenji M, Fagan K, McCarthy RB, Green-McKenzie J, McNicholas J, Onigbogi CB, Perkison WB, Butler JW. Prevention of Occupational Heat-Related Illnesses. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:e737-e744. [PMID: 34597285 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
High ambient temperatures and strenuous physical activity put workers at risk for a variety of heat-related illnesses and injuries. Through primary prevention, secondary prevention, and treatment, OEM health providers can protect workers from the adverse effects of heat. This statement by the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine provides guidance for OEM providers who serve workers and employers in industries where heat exposure occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Tustin
- American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Elk Grove, Illinois
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29
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Butler-Dawson J, Krisher L, Dally M, James KA, Johnson RJ, Jaramillo D, Yoder H, Johnson EC, Pilloni D, Asensio C, Cruz A, Newman LS. Sugarcane Workweek Study: Risk Factors for Daily Changes in Creatinine. Kidney Int Rep 2021; 6:2404-2414. [PMID: 34514201 PMCID: PMC8418948 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2021.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Agricultural workers laboring in thermally stressful environments are at increased risk for kidney injury and chronic kidney disease of unknown origin (CKDu), and their environmental and occupational exposures have been considered to be important risk factors. This study examined the effects of repeated kidney stress from the simultaneous strain of work and other factors experienced by workers in Guatemala during a typical workweek. METHODS We collected data from 107 sugarcane workers across 7 consecutive work shifts. Data included information on daily occupational, meteorological, environmental, and lifestyle factors. We used multivariable linear mixed models to evaluate associations of these factors with percent change in creatinine. RESULTS We observed that increasing wet bulb globe temperature (β = 2.5%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.3%, 4.7%) and increasing diastolic blood pressure (β = 6.2%, 95% CI = 0.9%, 11.6%) were associated with increases in creatinine across the shift, whereas consumption of water from chlorinated dormitory tanks as compared to artesian well water (β = -17.5%, 95% CI = -29.6%, -5.4%) and increasing number of rest breaks (β = -5.8%, 95% CI = -9.0%, -2.6%) were found to be protective against increases in creatinine. Workers reporting drinking tank water had lower concentrations of urine creatinine-corrected arsenic, lead, uranium, and glyphosate compared to workers reporting the use of well water or municipal water. CONCLUSION These results reinforce the need to focus on preventive actions that reduce kidney injury among this worker population, including strategies to reduce heat stress, managing blood pressure, and examining water sources of workers for nephrotoxic contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Butler-Dawson
- Center for Health, Work, & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Lyndsay Krisher
- Center for Health, Work, & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Miranda Dally
- Center for Health, Work, & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Katherine A. James
- Center for Health, Work, & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Richard J. Johnson
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Diana Jaramillo
- Center for Health, Work, & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Hillary Yoder
- Department Kinesiology & Health, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, USA
| | - Evan C. Johnson
- Department Kinesiology & Health, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, USA
| | | | | | - Alex Cruz
- Pantaleon, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Lee S. Newman
- Center for Health, Work, & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Electrolyte Beverage Intake to Promote Hydration and Maintain Kidney Function in Guatemalan Sugarcane Workers Laboring in Hot Conditions. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 62:e696-e703. [PMID: 33003044 PMCID: PMC7720870 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate impact of electrolyte supplementation on hydration status and health outcomes in Guatemalan agricultural workers performing heavy work under hot climatic conditions. METHODS A 3-week pragmatic trial was conducted with a group of 50 workers during the 2017 to 2018 sugarcane harvest. Workers received an electrolyte hydration intervention during 2 of the 3 weeks. Blood and urine samples were collected each week. RESULTS Increased electrolyte intake resulted in less muscle injury. Kidney function was maintained across the intervention period. Workers were adequately hydrated and average electrolyte levels remained in normal ranges. Mild indications of hyponatremia occurred at higher levels of fluid intake. CONCLUSIONS This trial demonstrates the feasibility of maintaining workers' electrolyte levels under extremely hot and humid conditions while mitigating muscle injury. Electrolyte supplementation should be added to standard workplace water, rest, and shade interventions to protect workers.
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Gunn V, Håkansta C, Vignola E, Matilla-Santander N, Kreshpaj B, Wegman DH, Hogstedt C, Ahonen EQ, Muntaner C, Baron S, Bodin T. Initiatives addressing precarious employment and its effects on workers' health and well-being: a protocol for a systematic review. Syst Rev 2021; 10:195. [PMID: 34193280 PMCID: PMC8244669 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-021-01728-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Precarious employment is a significant determinant of population health and health inequities and has complex public health consequences both for a given nation and internationally. Precarious employment is conceptualized as a multi-dimensional construct including but not limited to employment insecurity, income inadequacy, and lack of rights and protection in the employment relation, which could affect both informal and formal workers. The purpose of this review is to identify, appraise, and synthesize existing research on the effectiveness of initiatives aiming to or having the potential to eliminate, reduce, or mitigate workers' exposure to precarious employment conditions and its effects on the health and well-being of workers and their families. METHODS The electronic databases searched (from January 2000 onwards) are Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and PubMed, along with three institutional databases as sources of grey literature. We will include any study (e.g. quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods design) evaluating the effects of initiatives that aim to or have the potential to address workers' exposure to precarious employment or its effects on the health and well-being of workers and their families, whether or not such initiatives were designed specifically to address precarious employment. The primary outcomes will be changes in (i) the prevalence of precarious employment and workers' exposure to precarious employment and (ii) the health and well-being of precariously employed workers and their families. No secondary outcomes will be included. Given the large body of evidence screened, the initial screening of each study will be done by one reviewer, after implementing several strategies to ensure decision-making consistency across reviewers. The screening of full-text articles, data extraction, and critical appraisal will be done independently by two reviewers. Potential conflicts will be resolved through discussion. Established checklists will be used to assess a study's methodological quality or bias. A narrative synthesis will be employed to describe and summarize the included studies' characteristics and findings and to explore relationships both within and between the included studies. DISCUSSION We expect that this review's findings will provide stakeholders interested in tackling precarious employment and its harmful health effects with evidence on effectiveness of solutions that have been implemented to inform considerations for adaptation of these to their unique contexts. In addition, the review will increase our understanding of existing research gaps and enable us to make recommendations to address them. Our work aligns with the sustainable development agenda to protect workers, promote decent work and economic growth, eliminate poverty, and reduce inequalities. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42020187544 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Gunn
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Region, Sweden.
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Carin Håkansta
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Region, Sweden
- Working Life Science, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Emilia Vignola
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, New York, USA
| | - Nuria Matilla-Santander
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Region, Sweden
| | - Bertina Kreshpaj
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Region, Sweden
| | | | - Christer Hogstedt
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Region, Sweden
| | - Emily Q Ahonen
- Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Carles Muntaner
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sherry Baron
- Barry Commoner Center for Health and the Environment, Queens College, City University of New York, New York, USA
| | - Theo Bodin
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Region, Sweden
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Krenz J, Santos EC, Torres E, Palmández P, Carmona J, Blancas M, Marquez D, Sampson P, Spector JT. The multi-level heat education and awareness tools [HEAT] intervention study for farmworkers: Rationale and methods. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2021; 22:100795. [PMID: 34169175 PMCID: PMC8209069 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2021.100795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The burden of adverse health effects from heat exposure is substantial, and outdoor workers who perform heavy physical work are at high risk. Though heat prevention interventions have been developed, studies have not yet systematically evaluated the effectiveness of approaches that address risk factors at multiple levels. Objective We sought to test the effectiveness of a multi-level heat prevention approach (heat education and awareness tools [HEAT]), which includes participatory training for outdoor agricultural workers that addresses individual and community factors and a heat awareness mobile application for agricultural supervisors that supports decisions about workplace heat prevention, in the Northwest United States. Design We designed the HEAT study as a parallel, comparison, randomized group intervention study that recruited workers and supervisors from agricultural workplaces. In intervention arm crews, workers received HEAT training, and supervisors received the HEAT awareness application. In comparison arm crews, workers were offered non-HEAT training. Primary outcomes were worker physiological heat strain and heat-related illness (HRI) symptoms. In both worker groups, we assessed HRI symptoms approximately weekly, and heat strain physiological monitoring was conducted at worksites approximately monthly, from June through August. Discussion To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the effectiveness of a multi-level heat prevention intervention on physiological heat strain and HRI symptoms for outdoor agricultural workers. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Registration Number: NCT04234802;
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Krenz
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth Torres
- Northwest Communities Education Center/Radio KDNA, Granger, WA, USA
| | - Pablo Palmández
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jose Carmona
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maria Blancas
- College of the Environment, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Diana Marquez
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Paul Sampson
- Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - June T Spector
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Houser MC, Mac V, Smith DJ, Chicas RC, Xiuhtecutli N, Flocks JD, Elon L, Tansey MG, Sands JM, McCauley L, Hertzberg VS. Inflammation-Related Factors Identified as Biomarkers of Dehydration and Subsequent Acute Kidney Injury in Agricultural Workers. Biol Res Nurs 2021; 23:676-688. [PMID: 34018403 DOI: 10.1177/10998004211016070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Globally, there is increasing recognition that agricultural workers are at risk for chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu). Recurrent heat exposure, physical exertion, dehydration, muscle damage, and inflammation are hypothesized to contribute to the development of CKDu, but the relative importance of these processes and the interactions among them remain unclear. Moreover, there is a need to identify biomarkers that could distinguish individuals who are at greatest risk for kidney damage to target preventative interventions for CKDu. In this study, we evaluated dehydration and markers of inflammation, muscle damage, and renal function in agricultural workers at a non-workday baseline assessment. Urine specific gravity and kidney function were measured before and after work shifts on three subsequent days, and heat index, core body temperature, and heart rate were monitored during the work shifts. A combination of direct comparisons and machine learning algorithms revealed that reduced levels of uromodulin and sodium in urine and increased levels of interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein in serum were indicative of dehydration at baseline, and that dehydration, high body mass index, reduced urine uromodulin, and increased serum interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein at baseline were predictive of acute kidney injury on subsequent workdays. Our findings suggest a method for identifying agricultural workers at greatest risk for kidney injury and reveal potential mechanisms responsible for this process, including pathways overlapping in dehydration and kidney injury. These results will guide future studies confirming these mechanisms and introducing interventions to protect kidney health in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelyn C Houser
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Valerie Mac
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Daniel J Smith
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Roxana C Chicas
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nezahualcoyotl Xiuhtecutli
- Farmworker Association of Florida, Apopka, FL, USA.,Department of Anthropology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Joan D Flocks
- Social Policy Division, Center for Governmental Responsibility, Levin College of Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Lisa Elon
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Jeff M Sands
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Linda McCauley
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Vicki S Hertzberg
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Stallings TL, Riefkohl Lisci A, McCray NL, Weiner DE, Kaufman JS, Aschengrau A, Ma Y, LaValley MP, Ramírez-Rubio O, Jose Amador J, López-Pilarte D, Laws RL, Winter M, McSorley VE, Brooks DR, Applebaum KM. Dysuria, heat stress, and muscle injury among Nicaraguan sugarcane workers at risk for Mesoamerican nephropathy. Scand J Work Environ Health 2021; 47:377-386. [PMID: 34003295 PMCID: PMC8259701 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.3963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Nicaraguan sugarcane workers, particularly cane cutters, have an elevated prevalence of chronic kidney disease of unknown origin, also referred to as Mesoamerican nephropathy (MeN). The pathogenesis of MeN may include recurrent heat stress, crystalluria, and muscle injury with subsequent kidney injury. Yet, studies examining the frequency of such events in long-term, longitudinal studies are limited. Methods: Using employment and medical data for male workers at a Nicaraguan sugarcane company, we classified months of active work as either work as a cane cutter or other sugarcane job and determined occurrence of dysuria, heat events and muscle events. Work months and events occurred January 1997 to June 2010. Associations between cane cutting and each outcome were analyzed using logistic regression based on generalized estimating equations for repeated events, controlling for age. Results: Among 242 workers with 7257 active work months, 19.5% of person-months were as a cane cutter. There were 160, 21, and 16 episodes of dysuria, heat events, and muscle events, respectively. Compared with work months in other jobs, cane cutting was associated with an elevated odds of dysuria [odds ratio 2.40 (95% confidence interval 1.56–3.68)]. The number of heat and muscle events by cane cutter and other job were limited. Conclusions: Working as a cane cutter compared with other jobs in the sugarcane industry was associated with increased dysuria, supporting the hypothesis that cane cutters are at increased risk of events suspected of inducing or presaging clinically evident kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany L Stallings
- The George Washington University, Milken Institute School of Public Health, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, 950 New Hampshire Ave., NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
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Hansson E, Mansourian A, Farnaghi M, Petzold M, Jakobsson K. An ecological study of chronic kidney disease in five Mesoamerican countries: associations with crop and heat. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:840. [PMID: 33933045 PMCID: PMC8088703 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10822-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesoamerica is severely affected by an epidemic of Chronic Kidney Disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt), an epidemic with a marked variation within countries. We sought to describe the spatial distribution of CKDnt in Mesoamerica and examine area-level crop and climate risk factors. METHODS CKD mortality or hospital admissions data was available for five countries: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica and linked to demographic, crop and climate data. Maps were developed using Bayesian spatial regression models. Regression models were used to analyze the association between area-level CKD burden and heat and cultivation of four crops: sugarcane, banana, rice and coffee. RESULTS There are regions within each of the five countries with elevated CKD burden. Municipalities in hot areas and much sugarcane cultivation had higher CKD burden, both compared to equally hot municipalities with lower intensity of sugarcane cultivation and to less hot areas with equally intense sugarcane cultivation, but associations with other crops at different intensity and heat levels were not consistent across countries. CONCLUSION Mapping routinely collected, already available data could be a first step to identify areas with high CKD burden. The finding of higher CKD burden in hot regions with intense sugarcane cultivation which was repeated in all five countries agree with individual-level studies identifying heavy physical labor in heat as a key CKDnt risk factor. In contrast, no associations between CKD burden and other crops were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hansson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. .,La Isla Network, Washington, D.C., USA.
| | - Ali Mansourian
- GIS Centre, Department of Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mahdi Farnaghi
- GIS Centre, Department of Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Max Petzold
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,La Isla Network, Washington, D.C., USA.,Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Venugopal V, Latha PK, Shanmugam R, Krishnamoorthy M, Omprashanth R, Lennqvist R, Johnson P. Epidemiological evidence from south Indian working population-the heat exposures and health linkage. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2021; 31:177-186. [PMID: 32892212 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-020-00261-w] [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: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Changing climate and rising temperatures are predicted to affect millions of workers due to heat stress risks, especially in tropical settings. We used a cross-sectional study design to profile the heat exposures of ~1500 workers from eight-industrial sectors using a QuesTemp wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) monitor, quantified the heat-strain indicators viz., rise in Core Body Temperature (CBT), Sweat Rate (SwR), and Urine Specific Gravity (USG) by standard methods and evaluated the health impacts of heat stress using a structured questionnaire. Heat exposures (Avg.WBGT: 28.4 ± 2.6 °C) exceeded the Threshold Limit Value (TLV) for 70% of workers and was significantly associated with the rise in CBT >1 °C in 11.3% and elevated USG >1.020 in 10.5% of the workers. The heat-exposed workers had 2.3 times higher odds of reporting adverse health outcomes (84%) compared to the unexposed workers (95% CI: 1.74-3.19; p value ≤ 0.0001). Mild reduction in kidney function observed in 49% of salt - pan workers, and a high prevalence of kidney stones (33%) among the 91 steelworkers subjected to kidney ultrasound had a significant association with chronic high WBGT exposure above the TLV (p value < 0.034). Further, in-depth assessments are warranted to develop strategies for interventions and protective labor policies to avert adverse occupational health and productivity consequences for millions of workers globally, especially in the rising temperature scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhya Venugopal
- Faculty of Public Health, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - P K Latha
- Faculty of Public Health, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rekha Shanmugam
- Faculty of Public Health, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Manikandan Krishnamoorthy
- Faculty of Public Health, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Omprashanth
- Faculty of Public Health, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Robin Lennqvist
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine/Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Priscilla Johnson
- Department of Physiology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Workplace Screening Identifies Clinically Significant and Potentially Reversible Kidney Injury in Heat-Exposed Sugarcane Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228552. [PMID: 33218070 PMCID: PMC7698805 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
An epidemic of chronic kidney disease of unknown origin (CKDu) has emerged in the past two decades in agricultural communities, characterized by progressive renal failure with a dearth of early clinical symptoms. The aim of this study is to improve understanding of the natural history of this disease and to evaluate the impact of an educational and behavioral intervention on the trajectories of renal decline among a cohort of Guatemalan sugarcane workers. We identified groups of workers based on their kidney function during a longitudinal parent study conducted among sugarcane workers during the 2016–2017 harvest season. At the study’s first time point in February 2017, workers who developed abnormal kidney function (AKF) (estimated glomerular filtration rate, eGFR, <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2) were placed in the AKF group, workers with reduced kidney function (RKF) (eGFR 60–89) were placed in the RKF group, and workers who maintained normal kidney function (NKF) (eGFR ≥ 90) were placed in the NKF group. As part of the study, a health promotion, behavioral and educational intervention centered on water, electrolytes, rest, and shade (WERS) was provided to all study participants. We then prospectively analyzed renal function at the three study time points in February, March, and April. Additional data collected from previous harvests allowed for retrospective analysis and we compared the rate of change in eGFR over the previous five years (2012 to 2016) for each identified group. Mixed effects linear regression with random intercepts for the workers was used to investigate the difference in rates of change for the three groups and to assess the impact of the intervention study on rate of change of kidney function during the study compared to each group’s prior trajectory, utilizing the retrospective data collected during the five years prior to the study intervention. Between 2012 and 2016, eGFR declined at a rate of 0.18 mL/min per 1.73 m2 per year for the NKF group (95% CI: −0.66, 0.29, p = 0.45), 2.02 per year for the RKF group (95% CI: 1.00, 3.03, p = 0.0001) and 7.52 per year for the AKF group (95% CI: 6.01, 9.04, p < 0.0001). All study groups stabilized or improved their trajectory of decline during the intervention. This study supports the need to institute WERS interventions and to include mid-harvest screening protocols and longitudinal tracking of kidney function among sugarcane workers at high risk of CKDu. Early detection of rapid kidney function decline combined with appropriate interventions hold promise for stopping or slowing progression of renal insufficiency among these workers.
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Dally M, Butler-Dawson J, Sorensen CJ, Van Dyke M, James KA, Krisher L, Jaramillo D, Newman LS. Wet Bulb Globe Temperature and Recorded Occupational Injury Rates among Sugarcane Harvesters in Southwest Guatemala. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17218195. [PMID: 33171945 PMCID: PMC7664243 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
As global temperatures continue to rise it is imperative to understand the adverse effects this will pose to workers laboring outdoors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between increases in wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) and risk of occupational injury or dehydration among agricultural workers. We used data collected by an agribusiness in Southwest Guatemala over the course of four harvest seasons and Poisson generalized linear modelling for this analysis. Our analyses suggest a 3% increase in recorded injury risk with each degree increase in daily average WBGT above 30 °C (95% CI: -6%, 14%). Additionally, these data suggest that the relationship between WBGT and injury risk is non-linear with an additional 4% acceleration in risk for every degree increase in WBGT above 30 °C (95% CI: 0%, 8%). No relationship was found between daily average WBGT and risk of dehydration. Our results indicate that agricultural workers are at an increased risk of occupational injury in humid and hot environments and that businesses need to plan and adapt to increasing global temperatures by implementing and evaluating effective occupational safety and health programs to protect the health, safety, and well-being of their workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Dally
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, and Colorado Consortium for Climate Change & Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (J.B.-D.); (C.J.S.); (M.V.D.); (K.A.J.); (L.K.); (D.J.); (L.S.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-303-724-2463
| | - Jaime Butler-Dawson
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, and Colorado Consortium for Climate Change & Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (J.B.-D.); (C.J.S.); (M.V.D.); (K.A.J.); (L.K.); (D.J.); (L.S.N.)
| | - Cecilia J. Sorensen
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, and Colorado Consortium for Climate Change & Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (J.B.-D.); (C.J.S.); (M.V.D.); (K.A.J.); (L.K.); (D.J.); (L.S.N.)
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Mike Van Dyke
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, and Colorado Consortium for Climate Change & Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (J.B.-D.); (C.J.S.); (M.V.D.); (K.A.J.); (L.K.); (D.J.); (L.S.N.)
| | - Katherine A. James
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, and Colorado Consortium for Climate Change & Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (J.B.-D.); (C.J.S.); (M.V.D.); (K.A.J.); (L.K.); (D.J.); (L.S.N.)
| | - Lyndsay Krisher
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, and Colorado Consortium for Climate Change & Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (J.B.-D.); (C.J.S.); (M.V.D.); (K.A.J.); (L.K.); (D.J.); (L.S.N.)
| | - Diana Jaramillo
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, and Colorado Consortium for Climate Change & Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (J.B.-D.); (C.J.S.); (M.V.D.); (K.A.J.); (L.K.); (D.J.); (L.S.N.)
| | - Lee S. Newman
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, and Colorado Consortium for Climate Change & Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (J.B.-D.); (C.J.S.); (M.V.D.); (K.A.J.); (L.K.); (D.J.); (L.S.N.)
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Chicas R, Xiuhtecutli N, Dickman NE, Scammell ML, Steenland K, Hertzberg VS, McCauley L. Cooling intervention studies among outdoor occupational groups: A review of the literature. Am J Ind Med 2020; 63:988-1007. [PMID: 32886396 PMCID: PMC7745167 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this systematic review is to examine cooling intervention research in outdoor occupations, evaluate the effectiveness of such interventions, and offer recommendations for future studies. This review focuses on outdoor occupational studies conducted at worksites or simulated occupational tasks in climatic chambers. METHODS This systematic review was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched to identify original research on intervention studies published in peer-reviewed journals that aimed at reducing heat stress or heat-related illness from January 2000 to August 2020. RESULTS A systematic search yielded a total of 1042 articles, of which 21 met the inclusion criteria. Occupations with cooling intervention studies included agriculture (n = 5), construction (n = 5), industrial workers (n = 4), and firefighters (n = 7). The studies focused on multiple types of cooling interventions cooling gear (vest, bandanas, cooling shirts, or head-cooling gel pack), enhanced heat dissipation clothing, forearm or lower body immersion in cold water, water dousing, ingestion of a crushed ice slush drink, electrolyte liquid hydration, and modified Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommendations of drinking water and resting in the shade. CONCLUSION Current evidence indicates that using multiple cooling gears along with rest cycles may be the most effective method to reduce heat-related illness. Occupational heat-related illnesses and death may be mitigated by targeted cooling intervention and workplace controls among workers of vulnerable occupational groups and industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Chicas
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | - Madeleine L. Scammell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kyle Steenland
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vicki S. Hertzberg
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Linda McCauley
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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40
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Tannis C. Heat illness and renal injury in mail and package delivery workers. Am J Ind Med 2020; 63:1059-1061. [PMID: 32833240 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Candace Tannis
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai New York New York
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41
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Sanchez Polo V, Garcia-Trabanino R, Rodriguez G, Madero M. Mesoamerican Nephropathy (MeN): What We Know so Far. Int J Nephrol Renovasc Dis 2020; 13:261-272. [PMID: 33116757 PMCID: PMC7588276 DOI: 10.2147/ijnrd.s270709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2002, a report from El Salvador described a high incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) of unknown cause, mostly in young males from specific coastal areas. Similar situations were observed along the Pacific Ocean coastline of other Central American countries and southern Mexico (Mesoamerica). This new form of CKD has been denominated Mesoamerican endemic nephropathy (MeN). The typical presentation of MeN is a young male from an endemic area with a family history of CKD, low eGFR, high serum creatinine, low level of albuminuria, hypokalemia, hyperuricemia, and urine urate crystals. Kidney biopsy demonstrating tubulointerstitial nephritis remains the gold standard for diagnosis but is available only for a minority. Commonly proposed causes include thermal stress/dehydration and/or exposure to environmental pollutants. However, likely, a third factor, which could be genetic or epigenetic, could contribute to the cause and development of the disease, along with social determinants. Currently, preventive measures focus on minimizing workers exposure to thermal stress/dehydration. There are many research opportunities and priorities should include clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the current treatment protocols, along with etiological and genetic studies, and the development of kidney disease data systems. Although there is scant and controversial literature with regard s to the etiology, diagnosis and management of the disease, our aim is to provide the reader a vision of the disease based on our experience.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ramon Garcia-Trabanino
- Centro de Hemodiálisis, San Salvador, El Salvador
- Fondo Social de Emergencia Para la Salud, Tierra Blanca, El Salvador
| | - Guillermo Rodriguez
- Service of Nephrology, Hospital Dr. R.A. Calderón Guardia, Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Magdalena Madero
- Division of Nephrology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, México, México
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42
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Boonruksa P, Maturachon T, Kongtip P, Woskie S. Heat Stress, Physiological Response, and Heat-Related Symptoms among Thai Sugarcane Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E6363. [PMID: 32882881 PMCID: PMC7503547 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17176363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Prolonged or intense exposure to heat can lead to a range of health effects. This study investigated heat exposure and heat-related symptoms which sugarcane workers (90 sugarcane cutters and 93 factory workers) experienced during a harvesting season in Thailand. During the hottest month of harvesting season, wet bulb globe temperature was collected in the work environment, and workloads observed, to assess heat stress. Urine samples for dehydration test, blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature were measured pre- and post-shift to measure heat strain. Fluid intake and heat-related symptoms which subjects had experienced during the harvesting season were gathered via interviews at the end of the season. From the results, sugarcane cutters showed high risk for heat stress and strain, unlike factory workers who had low risk based on the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygiene (ACGIH) threshold limit values (TLVs) for heat stress. Dehydration was observed among sugarcane cutters and significant physiological changes including heart rate, body temperature, and systolic blood pressure occurred across the work shift. Significantly more sugarcane cutters reported experiencing heat-related symptoms including weakness/fatigue, heavy sweating, headache, rash, muscle cramp, dry mouth, dizziness, fever, dry/cracking skin, and swelling, compared to sugarcane factory workers. We conclude that the heat stress experienced by sugarcane cutters working in extremely hot environments, with high workloads, is associated with acute health effects. Preventive and control measures for heat stress are needed to reduce the risk of heat strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pongsit Boonruksa
- School of Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, Suranaree University of Technology, 111 University Ave., Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Thatkhwan Maturachon
- School of Community Health Nursing, Institute of Nursing, Suranaree University of Technology, 111 University Ave., Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand;
| | - Pornpimol Kongtip
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, 420/1 Rajvithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
- Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology, EHT, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Susan Woskie
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, One University Ave, Lowell, MA 01854-2867, USA;
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43
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Rugulies R, Burdorf A. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health goes full open access. Scand J Work Environ Health 2020; 46:455-456. [PMID: 32852043 PMCID: PMC7737804 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.3916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Reiner Rugulies
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Department of Public Health, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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44
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Wesseling C. Is an Environmental Nephrotoxin the Primary Cause of CKDu (Mesoamerican Nephropathy)? CON. KIDNEY360 2020; 1:596-601. [PMID: 35372936 PMCID: PMC8815562 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0002922020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Catharina Wesseling
- La Isla Network, Washington, DC
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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45
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Su Y, Cheng L, Cai W, Lee JKW, Zhong S, Chen S, Li T, Huang X, Huang C. Evaluating the effectiveness of labor protection policy on occupational injuries caused by extreme heat in a large subtropical city of China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 186:109532. [PMID: 32334170 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
On March 1, 2012, the Chinese government implemented the Administrative Measures on Heatstroke Prevention (AMHP2012) to combat the occupational health impacts of extreme heat, and reducing occupational injury was one of the main purposes. This study aimed at quantifying the intervention effects of the AMHP2012 on extreme heat-related occupational injuries and subsequent insurance payouts in Guangzhou, China. Data on occupational injuries and insurance payouts were collected from March 1, 2011, to February 28, 2013, from the occupational injury insurance system of Guangzhou. A quasi-experimental design with before-after control was adopted. Interrupted time series analysis was performed to quantify the change of occupational injuries and insurance payouts after policy implementation. The distributed lag non-linear model was used to explore whether injury claims and insurance payouts due to extreme heat decreased. A total of 9851 injury claims were included in the analysis. After policy implementation, the risk of occupational injuries and insurance payouts decreased by 13% (RR = 0.87, 95%CI: 0.75, 0.99) and 24% (RR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.58, 0.94), respectively. The attributable fraction of extreme heat-related occupational injuries decreased from 3.17% (95%eCI: 1.35, 4.69) to 1.52% (95%eCI: -0.36, 3.15), which contributed to 0.86 million USD reduction of insurance payouts. Both males and females, low-educated, young and middle-aged workers, workers at small or medium-sized enterprises, engaging in manufacturing, and with both minor and severe injuries were apparently associated with decreased rates of extreme heat-related occupational injuries. The AMHP2012 policy contributed to the reduction of extreme heat-related occupational injuries and insurance payouts in Guangzhou, China, and this research provided novel evidence for decision-makers to better understand the necessity of implementing health protection policies among laborers under climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Su
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China; Shanghai Typhoon Institute, China Meteorological Administration, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Liangliang Cheng
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Wenjia Cai
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Earth System Modeling, Department of Earth System Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Joint Center for Global Change Studies (JCGCS), Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Jason Kai Wei Lee
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Global Asia Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore; N.1 Institute for Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shuang Zhong
- Center for Chinese Public Administration Research, School of Government, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Siyu Chen
- Institute for Economic and Social Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Teng Li
- International School of Business and Finance, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Xinfei Huang
- International School of Business and Finance, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
| | - Cunrui Huang
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Service, Shanghai, 200030, China; School of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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46
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Hansson E, Glaser J, Jakobsson K, Weiss I, Wesseling C, Lucas RAI, Wei JLK, Ekström U, Wijkström J, Bodin T, Johnson RJ, Wegman DH. Pathophysiological Mechanisms by which Heat Stress Potentially Induces Kidney Inflammation and Chronic Kidney Disease in Sugarcane Workers. Nutrients 2020; 12:E1639. [PMID: 32498242 PMCID: PMC7352879 DOI: 10.3390/nu12061639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt) is common among Mesoamerican sugarcane workers. Recurrent heat stress and dehydration is a leading hypothesis. Evidence indicate a key role of inflammation. METHODS Starting in sports and heat pathophysiology literature, we develop a theoretical framework of how strenuous work in heat could induce kidney inflammation. We describe the release of pro-inflammatory substances from a leaky gut and/or injured muscle, alone or in combination with tubular fructose and uric acid, aggravation by reduced renal blood flow and increased tubular metabolic demands. Then, we analyze longitudinal data from >800 sugarcane cutters followed across harvest and review the CKDnt literature to assess empirical support of the theoretical framework. RESULTS Inflammation (CRP elevation and fever) and hyperuricemia was tightly linked to kidney injury. Rehydrating with sugary liquids and NSAID intake increased the risk of kidney injury, whereas electrolyte solution consumption was protective. Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia were associated with kidney injury. DISCUSSION Heat stress, muscle injury, reduced renal blood flow and fructose metabolism may induce kidney inflammation, the successful resolution of which may be impaired by daily repeating pro-inflammatory triggers. We outline further descriptive, experimental and intervention studies addressing the factors identified in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hansson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 414, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden;
- La Isla Network, 1441 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (J.G.); (I.W.); (C.W.); (R.A.I.L.); (U.E.); (D.H.W.)
| | - Jason Glaser
- La Isla Network, 1441 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (J.G.); (I.W.); (C.W.); (R.A.I.L.); (U.E.); (D.H.W.)
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 414, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden;
- La Isla Network, 1441 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (J.G.); (I.W.); (C.W.); (R.A.I.L.); (U.E.); (D.H.W.)
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Box 414, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ilana Weiss
- La Isla Network, 1441 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (J.G.); (I.W.); (C.W.); (R.A.I.L.); (U.E.); (D.H.W.)
| | - Catarina Wesseling
- La Isla Network, 1441 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (J.G.); (I.W.); (C.W.); (R.A.I.L.); (U.E.); (D.H.W.)
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 13, 171 65 Solna, Sweden;
| | - Rebekah A. I. Lucas
- La Isla Network, 1441 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (J.G.); (I.W.); (C.W.); (R.A.I.L.); (U.E.); (D.H.W.)
- School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, 142 Edgbaston Park Rd, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Jason Lee Kai Wei
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 2 Medical Drive, MD9, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore;
- Global Asia Institute, National University of Singapore, 10 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore 119076, Singapore
- N.1 Institute for Health, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Dr, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Ulf Ekström
- La Isla Network, 1441 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (J.G.); (I.W.); (C.W.); (R.A.I.L.); (U.E.); (D.H.W.)
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Lund University, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Julia Wijkström
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Theo Bodin
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 13, 171 65 Solna, Sweden;
| | - Richard J. Johnson
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
| | - David H. Wegman
- La Isla Network, 1441 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (J.G.); (I.W.); (C.W.); (R.A.I.L.); (U.E.); (D.H.W.)
- Department of Work Environment, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01845, USA
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47
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Glaser J, Hansson E, Weiss I, Wesseling C, Jakobsson K, Ekström U, Apelqvist J, Lucas R, Arias Monge E, Peraza S, Hogstedt C, Wegman DH. Preventing kidney injury among sugarcane workers: promising evidence from enhanced workplace interventions. Occup Environ Med 2020; 77:527-534. [PMID: 32404530 PMCID: PMC7402461 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-106406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess if improvement of working conditions related to heat stress was associated with improved kidney health outcomes among sugarcane harvest workers in Chichigalpa, Nicaragua, a region heavily affected by the epidemic of chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin. METHODS Based on our findings during the 2017-2018 harvest (harvest 1), recommendations that enhanced the rest schedule and improved access to hydration and shade were given before the 2018-2019 harvest (harvest 2). Actual work conditions during harvest 2 were then observed. Serum creatinine (SCr) was measured before and at end-harvest, and cross-harvest changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and incident kidney injury (IKI, ie, SCr increase by ≥0.30 mg/dL or ≥1.5 times the baseline value) were compared between harvest 1 and harvest 2 for three jobs with different physical workloads using regression modelling. Workers who left during harvest were contacted at home, to address the healthy worker selection effect. RESULTS In burned cane cutters, mean cross-harvest eGFR decreased 6 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 2 to 9 mL/min/1.73 m2) less and IKI was 70% (95% CI 90% to 50%) lower in harvest 2 as compared with harvest 1 data. No such improvements were seen among seed cutters groups with less successful intervention implementation. CONCLUSION Kidney injury risk was again elevated in workers with strenuous jobs. The results support further efforts to prevent kidney injury among sugarcane workers, and other heat-stressed workers, by improving access to water, rest and shade. The distinction between design and implementation of such interventions should be recognised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Glaser
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London, UK
| | - Erik Hansson
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA .,Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Goteborg, Sweden
| | - Ilana Weiss
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Catharina Wesseling
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Goteborg, Sweden.,Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Goteborg, Sweden
| | - Ulf Ekström
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Lunds Universitet, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jenny Apelqvist
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Lunds Universitet, Lund, Sweden
| | - Rebekah Lucas
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Esteban Arias Monge
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Instituto Tecnologico de Costa Rica, Cartago, Costa Rica
| | - Sandra Peraza
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Facultad de Quimica y Farmacia, Universidad de El Salvador, San Salvador, El Salvador
| | - Christer Hogstedt
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David H Wegman
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
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48
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Moyce S, Mitchell D, Vega A, Schenker M. Hydration Choices, Sugary Beverages, and Kidney Injury in Agricultural Workers in California. J Nurs Scholarsh 2020; 52:369-378. [DOI: 10.1111/jnu.12561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Moyce
- Zeta Upsilon, Assistant Professor College of Nursing Montana State University Bozeman MT USA
| | - Diane Mitchell
- Research Associate Department of Public Health Sciences University of California, Davis Davis CA USA
| | - Alondra Vega
- Research Associate Public Health Institute Oakland CA USA
| | - Marc Schenker
- Professor Department of Public Health Sciences University of California Davis, Davis CA USA
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49
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Hansson E, Glaser J, Weiss I, Ekström U, Apelqvist J, Hogstedt C, Peraza S, Lucas R, Jakobsson K, Wesseling C, Wegman DH. Workload and cross-harvest kidney injury in a Nicaraguan sugarcane worker cohort. Occup Environ Med 2020; 76:818-826. [PMID: 31611303 PMCID: PMC6839725 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2019-105986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To examine the association between workload and kidney injury in a fieldworker cohort with different levels of physically demanding work over a sugarcane harvest, and to assess whether the existing heat prevention efforts at a leading occupational safety and health programme are sufficient to mitigate kidney injury. Methods Biological and questionnaire data were collected before (n=545) and at the end (n=427) of harvest among field support staff (low workload), drip irrigation workers (moderate), seed cutters (high) and burned sugarcane cutters (very high). Dropouts were contacted (87%) and reported the reason for leaving work. Cross-harvest incident kidney injury (IKI) was defined as serum creatinine increase ≥0.30 mg/dL or ≥1.5 times the baseline value, or among dropouts reporting kidney injury leading to leaving work. Results Mean cross-harvest estimated glomerular filtration rate change was significantly associated with workload, increasing from 0 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the low-moderate category to −5 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the high and −9 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the very high workload group. A similar pattern occurred with IKI, where low-moderate workload had 2% compared with 27% in the very high workload category. A healthy worker selection effect was detected, with 32% of dropouts reporting kidney injury. Fever and C reactive protein elevation were associated with kidney injury. Conclusions Workers considered to have the highest workload had more cross-harvest kidney damage than workers with less workload. Work practices preventing heat stress should be strengthened and their role in preventing kidney damage examined further. Future occupational studies on chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology should account for a healthy worker effect by pursuing those lost to follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hansson
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,School of Public Health, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jason Glaser
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA .,Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ilana Weiss
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Ulf Ekström
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Lund University Faculty of Medicine, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jenny Apelqvist
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Lund University Faculty of Medicine, Lund, Sweden
| | - Christer Hogstedt
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sandra Peraza
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Facultad de Quimica y Farmacia, Universidad de El Salvador, San Salvador, El Salvador.,Programa SALTRA/ES, San Salvador, El Salvador
| | - Rebekah Lucas
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kristina Jakobsson
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,School of Public Health, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Catharina Wesseling
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David H Wegman
- La Isla Network, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
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50
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Acute Kidney Injury Biomarker Responses to Short-Term Heat Acclimation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17041325. [PMID: 32092895 PMCID: PMC7068478 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The combination of hyperthermia, dehydration, and strenuous exercise can result in severe reductions in kidney function, potentially leading to acute kidney injury (AKI). We sought to determine whether six days of heat acclimation (HA) mitigates the rise in clinical biomarkers of AKI during strenuous exercise in the heat. Twenty men completed two consecutive 2 h bouts of high-intensity exercise in either hot (n = 12, 40 °C, 40% relative humidity) or mild (n = 8, 24 °C, 21% relative humidity) environments before (PreHA) and after (PostHA) 4 days of 90–120 min of exercise per day in a hot or mild environment. Increased clinical biomarkers of AKI (CLINICAL) was defined as a serum creatinine increase ≥0.3 mg·dL−1 or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) reduction >25%. Creatinine similarly increased in the hot environment PreHA (0.35 ± 0.23 mg·dL−1) and PostHA (0.39 ± 0.20 mg·dL−1), with greater increases than the mild environment at both time points (0.11 ± 0.07 mg·dL−1, 0.08 ± 0.06 mg·dL−1, p ≤ 0.001), respectively. CLINICAL occurred in the hot environment PreHA (n = 9, 75%), with fewer participants with CLINICAL PostHA (n = 7, 58%, p = 0.007), and no participants in the mild environment with CLINICAL at either time point. Percent change in plasma volume was predictive of changes in serum creatinine PostHA and percent changes in eGFR both PreHA and PostHA. HA did not mitigate reductions in eGFR nor increases in serum creatinine during high-intensity exercise in the heat, although the number of participants with CLINICAL was reduced PostHA.
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