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Gelaw A, Parker S, Johnson A, Nguyen H, Jolly A, Forner V, Deng C, Collie A. Determinants of psychological injury among health and social care workers in community settings: A systematic review. Work 2024:WOR230426. [PMID: 38578915 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health and Social Care (HSC) workers face psychological health risks in the workplace. While many studies have described psychological injuries in HSC workers, few have examined the determinants. Previous research has primarily focused on hospitals, lacking systematic reviews of community-based settings. OBJECTIVE To systematically identify and appraise current evidence on the determinants of psychological injuries among HSC workers in community settings. METHODS Searches were conducted in three bibliographic databases, supplemented by citation searches. Included studies focused on community-based HSC workers, reporting statistical associations between psychological injury and personal, health, occupational, or organizational factors. Quantitative studies published in English between January 1, 2000 and August 15, 2023 were included. Quality appraisal was undertaken using the JBI critical appraisal checklist. RESULTS Sixty-six studies were included. Study quality was highly variable, and all studies were cross-sectional. Twenty-three studies linked psychological injury with occupational factors (e.g. low job control, high job demands and low job satisfaction). Thirteen studies observed an association between work environment and psychological injury, and a further eleven between workplace social support and psychological injury. Fewer studies have examined the relationship between psychological injury and personal/individual factors. CONCLUSION Occupational and organisational factors are significantly associated with psychological health among HSA workers, in community settings. These aspects of job design, work environment and workplace relationships are modifiable, suggesting an opportunity for work design interventions to improve workers' psychological health and reduce the prevalence of psychological injury in this sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmare Gelaw
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sharon Parker
- Future of Work Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Anya Johnson
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Helena Nguyen
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anu Jolly
- Future of Work Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Vivien Forner
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Connie Deng
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alex Collie
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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AbdulHussein A, Butt ZA, Dimitrov S, Cozzarin B. Factors Associated With Worsened Mental Health of Health Care Workers in Canada During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-Sectional Survey Study. Interact J Med Res 2024; 13:e50064. [PMID: 38358785 PMCID: PMC10905361 DOI: 10.2196/50064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care workers (HCWs) in Canada have endured difficult conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many worked long hours while attending to patients in a contagious environment. This introduced an additional burden that may have contributed to worsened mental health conditions. OBJECTIVE In this study, we examine the factors associated with worsened mental health conditions of HCWs as compared to before the start of the pandemic. METHODS We use data from a survey of HCWs by Statistics Canada. A regression model is used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) of worsened mental health after the start of the pandemic. The estimated odds ratio (OR) is associated with different independent variables that include demographics (age, sex, immigration status, and geographic area), occupational factors (work status, occupational group, and exposure category), and different access levels to personal protective equipment (PPE). RESULTS Of 18,139 eligible participants surveyed, 13,990 (77.1%) provided valid responses. We found that HCWs younger than 35 years old were more likely (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.03-1.27; P=.01) to exhibit worsened mental health as compared to the reference group (35-44 years old). As for sex, male HCWs were less likely (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.67-0.86; P<.001) to exhibit worsened mental health as compared to female HCWs. Immigrant HCWs were also less likely (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.51-0.64; P<.001) to exhibit worsened mental health as compared to nonimmigrant HCWs. Further, HCWs working in Alberta had the highest likelihood of exhibiting worsened mental health as compared to HCWs working elsewhere (Atlantic provinces, Quebec, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, British Columbia, and Northern Territories). Frontline workers were more likely (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.16-1.38; P<.001) to exhibit worsened mental health than nonfrontline HCWs. Part-time HCWs were less likely (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.76-0.93; P<.001) to exhibit worsened mental health than full-time HCWs. HCWs who reported encountering COVID-19 cases were more likely (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.41-1.70; P<.001) to exhibit worsened mental health as compared to HCWs who reported no contact with the disease. As for PPE, HCWs who never had access to respirators, eye protection, and face shields are more likely to exhibit worsened mental health by 1.31 (95% CI 1.07-1.62; P<.001), 1.51 (95% CI 1.17-1.96; P<.001), and 1.41 (95% CI 1.05-1.92; P=.02) than those who always had access to the same PPE, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Different HCW groups experienced the pandemic differently based on their demographic and occupational backgrounds as well as access to PPE. Such findings are important to stakeholders involved in the planning of personalized support programs and aid mental health mitigation in future crises. Certain groups require more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali AbdulHussein
- Department of Management Science, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Zahid Ahmad Butt
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Stanko Dimitrov
- Department of Management Science, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Brian Cozzarin
- Department of Management Science, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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Fageeh YA, Alotaibi TA, Althobaiti NSA, Alkhaldi AA, Althobaiti AA, Althobaiti HA, Abu Rukbah LK, Alharati SA, Alnofaie MF. Voice Disorders Among Teachers in Taif City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2024; 16:e54561. [PMID: 38516420 PMCID: PMC10957102 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Voice disorders (VD) pose significant challenges for teachers as they impact their professional and personal lives. Teaching requires extensive use of the voice, making teachers particularly susceptible to vocal health issues. VD can hinder the quality of education. Objectives This study aimed to comprehensively explore the prevalence, associated factors, and impact of VD among teachers and their health-seeking behavior regarding VD. Methodology A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in Taif City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), between November and December 2023. The data were collected through a questionnaire covering demographic variables, occupational factors, voice-related symptoms, associated health conditions, and the impact of VD. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Statistics version 26 (IBM Corp. Released 2019. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.), and chi-squared tests were used to assess associations. Results The study involved 568 teachers, 61.8% of whom had VD. The study identified significant associations between VD and demographic characteristics, habits, and teaching-related variables. Age, gender, teaching subject, class size, and weekly teaching load were associated with the prevalence of VD. Hoarseness, throat pain, and throat dryness were prevalent symptoms among teachers with VD. The impact of VD on teachers was evident, with a considerable proportion reporting work absenteeism (28.7%) and even contemplating retirement due to voice problems (6.3%). Conclusion This study offers a nuanced understanding of VD among teachers in the Taif region, emphasizing the complex interplay of demographic, symptomatic, and behavioral factors. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including awareness campaigns, preventive strategies, and streamlined healthcare access, to address the unique challenges that different subgroups of teachers face. Future research should further explore longitudinal trajectories and objective measures to enhance our understanding of VD in educational settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahya A Fageeh
- Otorhinolaryngology - Surgery, College of Medicine, Taif University, Taif, SAU
| | - Turki A Alotaibi
- Otorhinolaryngology - Surgery, College of Medicine, Taif University, Taif, SAU
| | | | - Alhanouf A Alkhaldi
- Otorhinolaryngology - Surgery, College of Medicine, Taif University, Taif, SAU
| | | | - Hanouf A Althobaiti
- Otorhinolaryngology - Surgery, College of Medicine, Taif University, Taif, SAU
| | - Liyan K Abu Rukbah
- Otorhinolaryngology - Surgery, College of Medicine, Taif University, Taif, SAU
| | - Shuruq A Alharati
- Otorhinolaryngology - Surgery, College of Medicine, Taif University, Taif, SAU
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Valaine L, Grēve M, Zolovs M, Ancāne G, Utināns A, Briģis Ģ. Self-Esteem and Occupational Factors as Predictors of the Incidence of Anxiety and Depression among Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Latvia. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2024; 21:65. [PMID: 38248530 PMCID: PMC10815765 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of depression and anxiety among healthcare workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic is high. The aim of the study is to identify the importance of self-esteem and occupational factors in association with the incidence of depression and anxiety among HCWs through a longitudinal cohort study during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latvia. Participants received seven questionnaires during the COVID-19 pandemic on demographic parameters, work-related information, and contact with COVID-19 patients, and three standardized questionnaires that evaluated symptoms of anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), and self-esteem (Rosenberg's self-esteem scale). The Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) was used to identify factors associated with the incidence of depression and anxiety among HCWs. A total of 322 participants were included in the data analysis for depression and 352 for anxiety. HCWs with low self-esteem were 83% more likely to experience depression and 76% more likely to experience anxiety. Working at a general practitioner practice is associated with twice the risk of developing depression and anxiety. A 31% increase in the odds of depression is observed among HCWs with direct contact with COVID-19 patients. The organizational and government levels must look for opportunities to facilitate the mental health of HCWs to ensure better-quality healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Valaine
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Riga Stradiņš University, LV-1046 Riga, Latvia; (G.A.); (A.U.)
| | - Māra Grēve
- Statistics Unit, Riga Stradiņš University, LV-1048 Riga, Latvia; (M.G.); (M.Z.)
| | - Maksims Zolovs
- Statistics Unit, Riga Stradiņš University, LV-1048 Riga, Latvia; (M.G.); (M.Z.)
- Institute of Life Sciences and Technology, Daugavpils University, LV-5401 Daugavpils, Latvia
| | - Gunta Ancāne
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Riga Stradiņš University, LV-1046 Riga, Latvia; (G.A.); (A.U.)
| | - Artūrs Utināns
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Riga Stradiņš University, LV-1046 Riga, Latvia; (G.A.); (A.U.)
| | - Ģirts Briģis
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Riga Stradiņš University, LV-1010 Riga, Latvia;
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Bertrais S, Pineau E, Niedhammer I. Prospective associations of psychosocial work factors with sickness absence spells and duration: Results from the French national working conditions survey. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:938-951. [PMID: 37563743 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some psychosocial work factors are associated with sickness absence, however little information is available on the associations of various psychosocial work factors and multiple exposures with sickness absence spells and duration, and gender differences. METHODS Data were from the French working conditions survey conducted on a nationally representative sample of the working population. The study sample included 17,437 employees (7292 men, 10,145 women) followed from 2013 to 2016 and/or from 2016 to 2019. Occupational exposures (20 psychosocial work factors, 4 working time/hours factors, 4 physical work exposures) were measured at the beginning of each follow-up period. Hurdle and multinomial models were used to study the associations with the number of days and spells of sickness absence. RESULTS Most of the psychosocial work factors predicted the risk of at least 1 day of sickness absence. Stronger associations were found among women than men for some factors. Psychosocial work factors were more likely to predict the number of spells than the number of days of sickness absence. Some physical work exposures predicted sickness absence spells and days, whereas shift work in women predicted the risk of at least 1 day of sickness absence. Dose-response associations were found between multiple psychosocial work exposures and sickness absence spells, and between multiple physical exposures and sickness absence spells and days. CONCLUSION Comprehensive prevention policies oriented toward the whole psychosocial and physical work environment should be useful to reduce sickness absence among men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Bertrais
- INSERM, Univ Angers, Univ Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S 1085, ESTER Team, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Elodie Pineau
- INSERM, Univ Angers, Univ Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S 1085, ESTER Team, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Isabelle Niedhammer
- INSERM, Univ Angers, Univ Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S 1085, ESTER Team, F-49000 Angers, France
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Seyyedsalehi MS, Boffetta P. Per- and Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Exposure and Risk of Kidney, Liver, and Testicular Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Med Lav 2023; 114:e2023040. [PMID: 37878255 PMCID: PMC10627102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a large, complex group of synthetic chemicals humans can be exposed to from occupational or environmental sources. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we examined the association between PFAS exposure, particularly Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), and Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS), and risk of kidney, liver, and testicular cancer. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed to identify cohort and case-control studies reported after the Monograph of the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the Toxicological Profile of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. We assessed the quality of the studies by using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Forest relative risk (RR) plots were constructed for liver, kidney, and testicular cancer. We conducted stratified analyses by geographic region, study design, quality score, outcome, years of publication, exposure source, and PFAS type. A random-effects model was used to address heterogeneity between studies. RESULTS Fifteen studies, including ten cohort studies, three case-control studies nested in a cohort, and two case-control studies were included after removing duplicate and irrelevant reports. We found an association between overall PFAS exposure and the risk of kidney cancers (RR=1.18, 95% CI =1.05-1.32; I =52.8%, 11 studies). Also, we showed an association between high-level exposure to PFAS and kidney cancer (RR=1.74, 95% CI =1.23-2.47; p=0.005) and testicular cancer (RR=2.22, 95% CI =1.12-4.39; p=0.057). There was no association with liver cancer. We found no heterogeneity by geographical region, PFAS type, study design, outcome, quality score, year of publication, or exposure source. Only two studies reported results among women. CONCLUSIONS We detected an association between overall PFAS exposure and kidney cancer and high doses of PFAS with testicular cancer. However, bias and confounding cannot be excluded, precluding a conclusion in terms of causality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolo Boffetta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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Krayer A, Kulhari S, Sharma V, Robinson C. Pathways to Suicide among Police in Rajasthan: Perceptions and Experiences of Police Personnel. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:1812. [PMID: 36767180 PMCID: PMC9914206 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Background: Evidence regarding the experience and perceptions of police personnel with suicide in South Asia is limited. This study explored the lived experiences and perceptions of suicide among police personnel in an Indian state. The focus was on explanations of and reasons for suicide. Methods: We conducted 20 qualitative interviews in 2021 with police of different ranks, guided by a topic guide. The reflexive thematic analysis approach was supported by the use of NVivo 12, a qualitative software package. Results: We explore three intersecting key themes around suicide in the police force, including: (1) the stressful police environment; (2) expectations of mental strength; and (3) police image and help-seeking. We discuss the tensions between these themes and how to address the challenges of supporting police personnel. Conclusions: To support and improve police personnel's mental well-being training and support are needed but also broader changes at the organisational level. These need to take social and historical factors into account. An increased level of suicide and mental health literacy will not only benefit the police force but also the general public, and it would be very timely with recent changes in the Indian mental health and suicide policy context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Krayer
- Centre for Mental Health and Society, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 3YH, UK
| | - Seema Kulhari
- Medical & Health Department, Government of Rajasthan, Rajasthan Police Academy, Jaipur 302016, India
| | - Vimal Sharma
- Personal and Social Services Research Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9QS, UK
| | - Catherine Robinson
- Personal and Social Services Research Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9QS, UK
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Nourry N, Alsayed Obeid S, Rolling J, Lefebvre F, Baumlin S, Nasseri M, Berna F, Charbotel B, Gonzalez M, Vidailhet P, Mengin AC. Posttraumatic stress disorder and depression after the 2018 Strasbourg Christmas Market terrorist attack: a comparison of exposed and non-exposed police personnel. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2214872. [PMID: 37305952 PMCID: PMC10262818 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2214872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Police personnel are among the first responders exposed to terrorist attacks, raising in number in the late decades. Due to their profession, they are also exposed to repetitive violence, increasing their vulnerability to PTSD and depression.Objective: Our study aims at comparing the prevalence of PTSD and depression, and the risk factors associated with these conditions among directly and indirectly exposed versus non-exposed police personnel during the Strasbourg Christmas Market terrorist attack.Method: Three months after the attack, participants completed a survey assessing their sociodemographic characteristics, occupational data, degree of exposure, sleep debt around the event, event centrality (CES), and three mental health conditions: PTSD (PCL-5), depression (PHQ-9), and suicide risk (yes/no questions).Results: A total of 475 police personnel responded to the questionnaire: 263 were exposed to the attack (182 of them directly) and 212 were non-exposed. Among directly exposed participants, the prevalences of partial and complete PTSD were 12.6 and 6.6%, and the prevalence of moderate-to-severe depression was 11.5%. Multivariate analysis revealed that direct exposure was associated with a higher risk of PTSD (OR = 2.98 [1.10-8.12], p = .03). Direct exposure was not associated with a higher risk of depression (OR = 0.40 [0.10-1.10], p = .08). A significant sleep debt after the event was not associated with a higher risk of later PTSD (OR = 2.18 [0.81-5.91], p = .13) but was associated with depression (OR = 7.92 [2.40-26.5], p < .001). A higher event centrality was associated with both PTSD and depression (p < .001).Conclusions: Police personnel directly exposed to the Strasbourg Christmas Market terrorist attack were at higher risk of PTSD but not depression. Efforts to prevent and treat PTSD should focus on directly exposed police personnel. However, general mental health should be monitored for every personnel member.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Nourry
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Service de Pathologies Professionnelles et Médecine du Travail, Strasbourg, France
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université Gustave Eiffel, Lyon Cedex, France
| | - Shadi Alsayed Obeid
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Service de Pathologies Professionnelles et Médecine du Travail, Strasbourg, France
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Julie Rolling
- Regional Center for Psychotrauma Great East, Strasbourg, France
- Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictology Department, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique Unité Propre de Recherche 3212 (CNRS UPR 3212), Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences (INCI), Strasbourg, France
| | - François Lefebvre
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Département de Santé Publique, GMRC, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Laboratoire de Biostatistique et Informatique Médicale, Illkirch, France
| | - Sandra Baumlin
- Service de Soutien Psychologique opérationnel, Police Nationale, Ministère de l’Intérieur, Préfecture du Bas Rhin, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mohamed Nasseri
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Département de Santé Publique, GMRC, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Laboratoire de Biostatistique et Informatique Médicale, Illkirch, France
| | - Fabrice Berna
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
- Regional Center for Psychotrauma Great East, Strasbourg, France
- Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictology Department, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- INSERM U1114, Cognitive Neuropsychology, and Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Barbara Charbotel
- Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université Gustave Eiffel, Lyon Cedex, France
| | - Maria Gonzalez
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Service de Pathologies Professionnelles et Médecine du Travail, Strasbourg, France
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Pierre Vidailhet
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
- Regional Center for Psychotrauma Great East, Strasbourg, France
- Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictology Department, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- INSERM U1114, Cognitive Neuropsychology, and Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Amaury C. Mengin
- Regional Center for Psychotrauma Great East, Strasbourg, France
- Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictology Department, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- INSERM U1114, Cognitive Neuropsychology, and Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia, Strasbourg, France
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Millot C, Pereira B, Miallaret S, Clinchamps M, Vialatte L, Guillin A, Bailly Y, Ugbolue UC, Navel V, Baker JS, Bouillon-Minois JB, Dutheil F. Statistical Analysis of Absenteeism in a University Hospital Center between 2007 and 2019. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:12966. [PMID: 36232261 PMCID: PMC9565198 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the evolution of compressible absenteeism in a hospital center and identify the professional and sociodemographic factors that influence absenteeism. METHOD All hospital center employees have been included over a period of twelve consecutive years (2007 to 2019). Compressible absences and occupational and sociodemographic factors were analyzed using Occupational Health data. Since the distribution of the data did not follow a normal distribution, the number of days of absence was presented as a median (interquartile range (IQR): 1st quartile-3rd quartile), and comparisons were made using non-parametric tests followed by a negative binomial model with zero inflation (ZINB). RESULTS A total of 16,413 employees were included, for a total of 2,828,599 days of absence, of which 2,081,553 were compressible absences (73.6% of total absences). Overall, 42% of employees have at least one absence per year. Absent employees had a median of 15 (IQR 5-53) days of absence per year, with an increase of a factor of 1.9 (CI95 1.8-2.1) between 2007 and 2019 (p < 0.001). Paramedical staff were most at risk of absence (p < 0.001 vs. all other occupational categories). Between 2007 and 2019, the number of days of absence was multiplied by 2.4 (CI95 1.8-3.1) for administrative staff, 2.1 (CI95 1.9-2.3) for tenured, 1.7 (CI95 1.5-2.0) for those living more than 12 km from the workplace, 1.8 (CI95 1.6-2.0) among women, 2.1 (CI95 1.8-2.6) among those over 50 years of age, 2.4 (CI95 1.8-3.0) among "separated" workers, and 2.0 (CI95 1.8-2.2) among those with at least one child. CONCLUSIONS Paramedical personnel are most at risk of absenteeism. Meanwhile, absenteeism is increasing steadily, and overall, the increase is major for administrative staff. The profile of an employee at risk of absenteeism is a titular employee, living at distance from work, probably female, over 50 years old, separated, and with children. Identifying professionals at risk of absenteeism is essential to propose adapted and personalized preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlène Millot
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Bruno Pereira
- Biostatistics Unit, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sophie Miallaret
- Blaise Pascal Mathematics Laboratory, Mathematics Department, Université Clermont Auvergne, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Cikaba—Quality, Health, Safety and Environment Software for Prevention, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Maëlys Clinchamps
- CNRS, LaPSCo, Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, WittyFit, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Luc Vialatte
- CNRS, LaPSCo, Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, WittyFit, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Arnaud Guillin
- Blaise Pascal Mathematics Laboratory, Mathematics Department, Université Clermont Auvergne, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Yan Bailly
- Cikaba—Quality, Health, Safety and Environment Software for Prevention, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Ukadike Chris Ugbolue
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Institute for Clinical Exercise & Health Science, University of the West of Scotland, South Lanarkshire, Scotland G72 0LH, UK
| | - Valentin Navel
- CNRS, INSERM, GReD, Ophthalmology, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Julien Steven Baker
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Centre for Health and Exercise Science Research, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jean-Baptiste Bouillon-Minois
- CNRS, LaPSCo, Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, WittyFit, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Frédéric Dutheil
- CNRS, LaPSCo, Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, WittyFit, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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10
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Vellere I, Di Felice A, Botta A, Angheben A, Bartoloni A, Zammarchi L. Pyemotes ventricosus Dermatitis: A Case Report and an Extensive Review of Outbreaks and Clinical Cases. Infect Dis Rep 2022; 14:668-674. [PMID: 36136822 PMCID: PMC9498393 DOI: 10.3390/idr14050072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Pyemotes ventricosus dermatitis, caused by free-living mites, could be difficult to diagnose since bites are painless and ectoparasites are not visible. We present an unpublished clinical case that occurred in Italy and an extensive review of clinical cases and outbreaks of Pyemotes species. (2) Methods: Case reports and outbreaks of Pyemotes spp. were searched for on Pubmed and Embase. Epidemiological and clinical data were analysed with descriptive statistics. (3) Results: In total, we found 40 case reports and 21 outbreaks to be considered in this review. The majority of cases involved young females, occurred in summer and were observed in Europe. Dermatitis was the most common clinical manifestation. Diagnosis was mainly based on risk factors. Treatment was based on topical steroids and antihistamine drugs. Regarding outbreaks, contact with grain or feed and exposure with infested furniture were the main risk factors. The mean number of involved patients were 69, with symptoms most commonly ending within a week. (4) Conclusions: Pyemotes ventricosus dermatitis is underreported, especially in countries like Africa and Central and South-America, since disease is self-limiting and comet sign is reported in a quarter of cases. The reduction in use of pesticides in agriculture could lead to an increased exposure to Pyemotes spp. in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iacopo Vellere
- Infectious Disease Unit, Ferrara University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Di Felice
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Annarita Botta
- Respiratory Infectious Diseases Unit, Cotugno Hospital—A.O.R.N. Dei Colli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Angheben
- Department of Infectious—Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar Di Valpolicella, 37024 Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
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11
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Lallukka T, Shiri R, Alexanderson K, Ervasti J, Mittendorfer-Rutz E, Virtanen M. Sickness absence and disability pension after carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis: A register-based study of patients and matched references in Sweden. Scand J Public Health 2022; 50:471-481. [PMID: 33845698 PMCID: PMC9152599 DOI: 10.1177/14034948211002729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Aims: The aim of this study was to examine sickness absence and disability pension (SA/DP) during working lifespan among individuals diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and their matched references, accounting for sociodemographic factors. Methods: We used a register cohort of 78,040 individuals aged 19-60 years when diagnosed with CTS in secondary health care (hospitals and outpatient specialist health care) and their 390,199 matched references from the general population in 2001-2010. Sociodemographic factors and SA/DP net days during a three-year follow-up were included. Negative binomial regression was used. Results: For those not on DP at inclusion, the average number of SA/DP days per person-year was 58 days (95% confidence interval (CI) 56-60 days) among individuals with CTS and 20 days (95% CI 19-21 days) among the matched references. Among both groups, these numbers increased with age and were higher among women than among men. The rate ratio (RR) of SA/DP days was threefold higher among people with CTS than among the matched references (adjusted RR=3.00, 95% CI 2.91-3.10) Moreover, compared to the matched references, the RR for SA/DP was higher among men with CTS (RR=3.86, 95% CI 3.61-4.13) than among women with CTS (RR=2.69, 95% CI 2.59-2.78). The association between CTS and the number of SA/DP days was smaller among older age groups. Sociodemographic factors were similarly associated with SA/DP among people with and without CTS. Conclusions: Numbers of SA/DP days were higher among people with CTS than their matched references in all age groups, particularly among individuals in their early work careers, highlighting public-health relevance of the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tea Lallukka
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience,
Division of Insurance Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
- Finnish Institute of Occupational
Health, Finland
- Department of Public Health, University
of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rahman Shiri
- Finnish Institute of Occupational
Health, Finland
| | - Kristina Alexanderson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience,
Division of Insurance Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | | | | | - Marianna Virtanen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience,
Division of Insurance Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
- School of Educational Sciences and
Psychology, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
- Stress Research Institute, Stockholm
University, Sweden
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12
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Sattar N, Rabia Rahat Gillani S, Erkin M, Khan M, Abbas M, Khurshid Khattak N. Role of environmental and occupational factors in fall-related maxillofacial fractures. Clin Exp Dent Res 2022; 8:737-741. [PMID: 35362673 PMCID: PMC9209790 DOI: 10.1002/cre2.545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the frequency and patterns of maxillofacial fractures in falls due to environmental and occupational reasons. Material and Methods One hundred and nineteen patients were included in this study who presented to the department of Oral and maxillofacial surgery at Khyber College of Dentistry, Peshawar. The duration of study was 3 years from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2019. Demographic data such as age, gender and data environmental or occupational etiology of falls and pattern of fractures was noted in a customized Performa after detailed history, clinical and radiographic examination. Patients of maxillofacial fractures resulting due to falls with age ranging from 16 to 64 years were included. Those cases of falls that presented with systemic diseases or had chances of pathological fractures were excluded from the study. Results Male population was affected more than females (60% vs. 39.4%). The mean age was 32.39 SD ± 16.031. Falls due to environmental factors were more common than occupational factors (81.5% vs 18.5%). Fracture of midface was more common (57.1%) than fracture of mandible (36.7%) in patients of falls. 5.5% had both midface and mandible fractures. Conclusion We concluded that Environmental and work‐related facial fractures in falls are common in third and fourth decade of life. Falls due to stumbling, tripping and slipping, falls from height and falls from stairs most commonly result in midface fractures. Mandible fractures are commonly seen in sportsmen and laborers. Preventive strategies shall be adopted to prevent morbidity and mortality associated with such injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigam Sattar
- Department of Oral Surgery, IIDC, Riphah International University, Islamabad
| | | | - Mahiwsh Erkin
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shifa College of Dentistry, Islamabad
| | - Muslim Khan
- Department of Oral Surgery, Khyber College of Dentistry, Peshawar
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13
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Łastowiecka-Moras E. Standing and sitting postures at work and symptoms of venous insufficiency - results from questionnaires and a Doppler ultrasound study. Int J Occup Saf Ergon 2020; 27:963-969. [PMID: 33054640 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2020.1834232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Chronic venous insufficiency is the most common vascular disease. One of the major risk factors for its development is long-term sitting or standing in the same position and the nature of the work performed. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of chronic venous insufficiency in a group of persons employed in workplaces with a predominance of standing or sitting positions, and to determine work-related and non-work risk factors. The research used two tools: questionnaires and medical examinations. The survey comprised 500 people, including 238 men (47.6%) and 262 women (52.4%), aged 25-60 years, 39.75 ± 10.80 years old on average. In addition, a group of 100 randomly selected people was subjected to medical examinations to confirm or exclude chronic venous insufficiency symptoms in the study group. The study showed a statistically significant correlation between postures adopted at work and the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency of the lower limbs.
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14
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Adani G, Filippini T, Garuti C, Malavolti M, Vinceti G, Zamboni G, Tondelli M, Galli C, Costa M, Vinceti M, Chiari A. Environmental Risk Factors for Early-Onset Alzheimer's Dementia and Frontotemporal Dementia: A Case-Control Study in Northern Italy. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:E7941. [PMID: 33138082 PMCID: PMC7663191 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Early-onset dementia (EOD) is defined as dementia with symptom onset before 65 years. The role of environmental risk factors in the etiology of EOD is still undefined. We aimed at assessing the role of environmental risk factors in EOD etiology, taking into account its different clinical types. Methods: Using a case-control study, we recruited all EOD cases referred to Modena hospitals from 2016 to 2019, while the referent population was drawn from cases' caregivers. We investigated residential history, occupational and environmental exposures to chemicals and lifestyle behaviors through a self-administered questionnaire. We computed the odds ratios of EOD risk (overall and restricting to the Alzheimer's dementia (AD) or frontotemporal dementia (FTD) diagnoses) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals using an unconditional logistic regression model. Results: Fifty-eight EOD patients (19 FTD and 32 AD) and 54 controls agreed to participate. Most of the investigated exposures, such as occupational exposure to aluminum, pesticides, dyes, paints or thinners, were associated with an increased odds ratio (OR) for FTD but not for AD. Long-term use of selenium-containing dietary supplements was associated with increased OR for EOD and, particularly, for FTD. For both EOD forms, smoking and playing football showed an increased odds ratio, while cycling was associated with increased risk only in FTD. Overall sports practice appeared to be a protective factor for both types. Conclusions: Our results suggest a role of environmental and behavioral risk factors such as some chemical exposures and professional sports in EOD etiology, in particular with reference to FTD. Overall sports practice may be associated with a reduced EOD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Adani
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.A.); (T.F.); (C.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.A.); (T.F.); (C.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Caterina Garuti
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.A.); (T.F.); (C.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Marcella Malavolti
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.A.); (T.F.); (C.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Giulia Vinceti
- Center for Neurosciences and Neurotechnology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41126 Modena, Italy; (G.V.); (G.Z.)
- Neurology Unit, Modena Policlinico-University Hospital, 41126 Modena, Italy; (M.T.); (C.G.); (A.C.)
| | - Giovanna Zamboni
- Center for Neurosciences and Neurotechnology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41126 Modena, Italy; (G.V.); (G.Z.)
- Neurology Unit, Modena Policlinico-University Hospital, 41126 Modena, Italy; (M.T.); (C.G.); (A.C.)
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Manuela Tondelli
- Neurology Unit, Modena Policlinico-University Hospital, 41126 Modena, Italy; (M.T.); (C.G.); (A.C.)
- Primary Care Department, Modena Local Health Authority, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Galli
- Neurology Unit, Modena Policlinico-University Hospital, 41126 Modena, Italy; (M.T.); (C.G.); (A.C.)
- Primary Care Department, Modena Local Health Authority, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Pharmacology and Child Health (NeuroFARBA), University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Manuela Costa
- Neurology Unit of Carpi Hospital, Modena Local Health Authority, 41012 Carpi, Italy;
| | - Marco Vinceti
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.A.); (T.F.); (C.G.); (M.M.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Annalisa Chiari
- Neurology Unit, Modena Policlinico-University Hospital, 41126 Modena, Italy; (M.T.); (C.G.); (A.C.)
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15
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Strizhakov LA, Guliaev SV, Babanov SA, Moiseev SV. [Osteoarthrosis in the clinic of internal and occupational diseases: differential diagnostic aspects]. TERAPEVT ARKH 2020; 92:89-92. [PMID: 33346500 DOI: 10.26442/00403660.2020.06.000620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a common pathology, which indicates the great medical and social significance of this disease. The article discusses the issues of pathogenesis, risk factors and diagnosis of professional and professionally caused osteoarthritis: the age of onset of the disease, the specifics of work, the localization of joint damage. Differential diagnosis issues are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Strizhakov
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
| | - S V Guliaev
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
| | | | - S V Moiseev
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
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16
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Bertrais S, André N, Bèque M, Chastang JF, Niedhammer I. Associations between multiple occupational exposures and sleep problems: Results from the national French Working Conditions survey. J Sleep Res 2020; 30:e13101. [PMID: 32537807 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Studies evaluating the effects of multiple occupational exposures on sleep are very rare. We assessed the associations between a wide range of occupational exposures and sleep problems and investigated the cumulative effects of these exposures on this outcome. We used data from the French 2016 Working Conditions survey conducted on a nationally representative sample of workers, including 20,430 employees aged 15-65 yr (8,579 men, 11,851 women). Sleep problems were defined by either sleep disturbances or sleep medication, almost daily or several times a week. Occupational exposures included 21 psychosocial work factors grouped into five dimensions, four factors related to working time/hours and four factors related to the physical work environment. Unadjusted and adjusted weighted robust Poisson regression analyses were performed. Almost all psychosocial work exposures were associated with sleep problems, whereas the only significant working time/hours factor associated with sleep problems was night work among women. Some gender differences in the exposure-outcome associations were found. The prevalence ratio of sleep problems increased with the number of exposures for most dimensions of psychosocial work factors. Physical work exposures were associated with sleep problems, and there was a linear association between the number of these occupational exposures and sleep problems in both genders, although the trend did not reach statistical significance among women. Workplace preventive strategies targeting the work environment comprehensively may be effective in improving sleep among working populations. More attention should be given to multiple exposures in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Bertrais
- Inserm, Univ Angers, Univ Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health) - UMR_S 1085, ESTER Team, Angers, France
| | - Noëmie André
- Inserm, Univ Angers, Univ Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health) - UMR_S 1085, ESTER Team, Angers, France
| | | | - Jean-François Chastang
- Inserm, Univ Angers, Univ Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health) - UMR_S 1085, ESTER Team, Angers, France
| | - Isabelle Niedhammer
- Inserm, Univ Angers, Univ Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health) - UMR_S 1085, ESTER Team, Angers, France
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17
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Filippini T, Tesauro M, Fiore M, Malagoli C, Consonni M, Violi F, Iacuzio L, Arcolin E, Oliveri Conti G, Cristaldi A, Zuccarello P, Zucchi E, Mazzini L, Pisano F, Gagliardi I, Patti F, Mandrioli J, Ferrante M, Vinceti M. Environmental and Occupational Risk Factors of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Population-Based Case-Control Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17082882. [PMID: 32331298 PMCID: PMC7216189 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease with still unknown etiology. We aimed at investigating the association between environmental and occupational factors with ALS risk. Methods: We performed a population-based case-control study in four Italian provinces (Catania, Modena, Novara, and Reggio Emilia) by administration of tailored questionnaires to ALS cases (n = 95) and randomly selected population referents (n = 135). We estimated ALS risk by calculating the odds ratio (OR) with its 95% confidence interval (CI) using an unconditional logistic regression model. Results: We found a positive association with disease risk for history of occupation in the agricultural sector (OR = 2.09, 95% CI 0.79-7.54), especially for longer than 10 years (OR = 2.72, 95% 1.02-7.20). Overall occupational exposure to solvents also suggested a positive association, especially for thinners (OR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.14-4.54) and paint removers (OR = 2.01, 95% CI 0.90-4.48). Both occupational and environmental exposure to electromagnetic fields show a slightly increased risk with OR = 1.69 (95% CI 0.70-4.09) and 2.41 (95% CI 1.13-5.12), respectively. Occupational but not environmental exposure to pesticides (OR = 1.22, 95% CI 0.63-2.37), particularly fungicides, and exposure to metals (OR = 4.20, 95% CI 1.88-9.38), particularly lead, mercury, and selenium, showed an imprecise but positive association. Finally, there was an indication of increased risk for living in proximity to water bodies. Conclusions: Despite the caution that needs to be used due to some study limitations, such as the low number of exposed subjects and the possibility of recall bias, these results suggest the potential role of some environmental and occupational factors in ALS etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Filippini
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Marina Tesauro
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Maria Fiore
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Carlotta Malagoli
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
| | - Michela Consonni
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Federica Violi
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
- Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Laura Iacuzio
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
- Department of Public Health, Local Health Unit, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Elisa Arcolin
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
| | - Gea Oliveri Conti
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Antonio Cristaldi
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Pietro Zuccarello
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Elisabetta Zucchi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Centre Department of Neurology, ‘Maggiore della Carità’ University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy; (L.M.); (I.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Pisano
- Neurological Rehabilitation Division, Policlinico San Marco di Zingonia, 24046 Zingonia (BG), Italy;
| | - Ileana Gagliardi
- ALS Centre Department of Neurology, ‘Maggiore della Carità’ University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy; (L.M.); (I.G.)
| | - Francesco Patti
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, S. Agostino Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy;
| | - Margherita Ferrante
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Marco Vinceti
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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18
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Huerta PA, Cifuentes M, Levenstein C, Kriebel D. The Association of Occupational Psychosocial Factors with the Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the Chilean Working Population. Ann Work Expo Health 2020; 63:426-436. [PMID: 30877302 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxz017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a stress-related disease linked to psychosocial factors, though knowledge about its occupational psychosocial aspects is scarce. OBJECTIVE A cross-sectional study of the prevalence of IBS and its association with occupational psychosocial factors in Chilean workers was conducted. METHODS IBS prevalence, using the IBS-Rome IV criteria, in the working population was estimated using data from the National Health Survey of 2009. Data on occupational psychosocial aspects were drawn from the Chilean Survey of Employment, Health, and Work of 2009, and allocated to individual survey participants at the occupation-region level. Data on family and community stressors were available at the individual level. Prevalence ratios (PR) for IBS were computed using generalized linear mixed models to account for variability at the group level. RESULTS The IBS prevalence in the overall working population (weighted n = 5 435 253) was 18.4%, but varied substantially by industry sector. Compared with 'professionals' (IBS prevalence = 7.3%), jobs with high prevalence of IBS included 'health and social work activities' [PR = 4.9; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.4-16.7], 'household employment' (PR = 4.8; 95% CI = 1.5-15.9), and 'manufacturing' (PR = 3.5; 95% CI = 1.0-11.8). With Karasek Job Demand Control scores assigned to occupations within regions, high job demand doubled the prevalence of IBS (PR = 2.0; 95% CI = 1.4-2.9), whereas high-skill discretion was associated with lower prevalence of IBS (PR = 0.6; 95% CI = 0.4-0.8). There was also evidence that these two factors were not independent; high-skill discretion appeared to buffer the effect of high job demand on IBS prevalence (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Occupational factors were associated with IBS prevalence, showing effects as important as those for non-occupational stresses such as civic insecurity or having health problems. High job skill discretion appeared to reduce the prevalence of IBS in the presence of high job demands. Given its high overall prevalence and poorly understood risk factors, further research on occupational psychosocial factors of IBS is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Huerta
- Departamento de Salud Pública, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | | | - Charles Levenstein
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell MA, USA
| | - David Kriebel
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell MA, USA
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Ranzieri S, Illica Magrini E, Mozzoni P, Andreoli R, Pelà G, Bertorelli G, Corradi M. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and occupational risk factors. Med Lav 2019; 110:407-436. [PMID: 31846447 PMCID: PMC7809935 DOI: 10.23749/mdl.v110i6.8970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rare lung disease of unknown origin that rapidly leads to death. However, the rate of disease progression varies from one individual to another and is still difficult to predict. The prognosis of IPF is poor, with a median survival of three to five years after diagnosis, without curative therapies other than lung transplantation. The factors leading to disease onset and progression are not yet completely known. The current disease paradigm is that sustained alveolar epithelial micro-injury caused by environmental triggers (e.g., cigarette smoke, microaspiration of gastric content, particulate dust, viral infections or lung microbial composition) leads to alveolar damage resulting in fibrosis in genetically susceptible individuals. Numerous epidemiological studies and case reports have shown that occupational factors contribute to the risk of developing IPF. In this perspective, we briefly review the current understanding of the pathophysiology of IPF and the importance of occupational factors in the pathogenesis and prognosis of the disease. Prompt identification and elimination of occult exposure may represent a novel treatment approach in patients with IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Ranzieri
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia - Università di Parma .
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Sauter J, Vogel J, Seewald K, Hausam J, Dahle KP. Let's Work Together - Occupational Factors and Their Correlates to Prison Climate and Inmates' Attitudes Towards Treatment. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:781. [PMID: 31736801 PMCID: PMC6829674 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of psychosocial and structural occupational factors in mental health service provision has broadly been researched. However, less is known about the influence of employees' occupational factors on inmates in correctional treatment settings that mostly seek to apply a milieu-therapeutic approach. Therefore, the present study investigated the relationships between occupational factors (job satisfaction, self-efficacy, and the functionality of the organizational structure) and prison climate, the number of staff members' sick days as well as inmates' treatment motivation. Employees (n = 76) of three different correctional treatment units in Berlin, Germany, rated several occupational factors as well as prison climate. At the same time, treatment motivation of n = 232 inmates was assessed. Results showed that higher ratings of prison climate were associated with higher levels of team climate, job satisfaction and the functionality of the organizational structure, but not with self-efficacy and sick days. There was no significant relationship between occupational factors and the perceived safety on the treatment unit. Inmates' treatment motivation was correlated with all aggregated occupational factors and with average sick days of staff members. Outcomes of this study strongly emphasize the importance of a positive social climate in correctional treatment units for occupational factors of prison staff but also positive treatment outcomes for inmates. Also, in the light of these results, consequences for daily work routine and organizational structure of prisons are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Sauter
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joanna Vogel
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Seewald
- Research & Development Division, Berlin Prison and Probation Services, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joscha Hausam
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Klaus-Peter Dahle
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Psychology, University of Hildesheim, Hildesheim, Germany
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Ojukwu CP, Anyanwu GE, Eze B, Chukwu SC, Onuchukwu CL, Anekwu EM. Prevalence, pattern and correlates of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among school teachers in Enugu, Nigeria. Int J Occup Saf Ergon 2018; 27:267-277. [PMID: 30016221 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2018.1495899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. There is insufficient literature on the prevalence of and risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among teachers in Nigeria. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of work-related MSDs and their associations with occupational and socio-demographic factors of Nigerian-based school teachers. Materials and methods. Socio-demographic and occupational characteristics, prevalence and pattern of work-related MSDs of 352 school teachers (age 24-60 years) were investigated using a standard Nordic questionnaire. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess predictors of work-related MSDs. Results. The results showed that 70.2% of the teachers had work-related MSDs predominantly in the shoulder (62.3%) and neck (57.9%) regions. Most of the studied socio-demographic features and anthropometric and occupational characteristics were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with MSDs in at least one body region. Conclusions. There was a prevalence of work-related MSDs among the teachers. Advanced educational qualification, elevated teaching boards, teaching experience over 10 years and age range of 35-50 years were the major predictors of MSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Benjamin Eze
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, University of Nigeria, Nigeria
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Heinrichs K, Angerer P, Loerbroks A. Psychosocial working conditions as determinants of asthma self-management at work: A systematic review. J Asthma 2017; 55:1095-1104. [PMID: 29200315 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2017.1396469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Asthma exerts a considerable impact on patients and their employers. While adequate self-management is able to improve patients' prognosis, its actual implementation in everyday life may depend on contextual factors. We aimed to review the literature on the potential determinants of asthma self-management at the workplace. DATA SOURCES We systematically searched Medline and PsycINFO using terms related to the key concepts of interest (i.e., adult asthma, working conditions, and self-management). STUDY SELECTION We included original studies published in peer-reviewed journals in English or German since 1992 addressing any type of asthma self-management behavior as the outcome and any type of working condition as the determinant. RESULTS Upon implementation of a multi-stage selection process, seven articles were included. As those studies showed considerable methodological heterogeneity, a qualitative analysis was applied. A first study identified three different adaptation profiles among employees with asthma with implications for self-management behavior. Another study suggested that concerns about taking time off from work may be associated with the utilization of emergency ambulance services for asthma. Five studies among workers with various chronic illnesses addressed determinants of self-disclosure, coping with acute symptoms (e.g., medication use at work), and the potential effect of practical and emotional support from line managers or colleagues on self-management. CONCLUSION Our review indicates that the evidence for a potential link of occupational factors with asthma self-management at work is relatively sparse. Future research should take a more comprehensive approach by considering multiple types of working conditions and asthma self-management behaviors simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherina Heinrichs
- a Institute of Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine , University of Düsseldorf , Düsseldorf , Germany
| | - Peter Angerer
- a Institute of Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine , University of Düsseldorf , Düsseldorf , Germany
| | - Adrian Loerbroks
- a Institute of Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine , University of Düsseldorf , Düsseldorf , Germany
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Abstract
Prolonged standing or sitting is one of the factors for chronic venous insufficiency. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of static load of the lower limbs on the functioning of the venous system. The study included 10 healthy young participants, with no peripheral venous disease. All participants took part in examinations in two variants: variant 1, sitting for 20 min with the lower limbs bent in the knee joints at 90°; variant 2, standing for 20 min with no additional load. Before and after each test, the venous refilling time (VRT) was determined using photoplethysmography. Statistical analysis demonstrated that the VRT was significantly shortened only after application of variant 2. Furthermore, even variants with small loads applied to healthy young participants can induce in them effects on the parameters describing the peripheral circulation.
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Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate occupational risk factors associated with bladder cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this case-control study, control group included patients who referred to a specialized clinic in the same city and hospitals where patients had been registered. Data were entered into SPSS software. Odds ratios (OR) were calculated for occupational variables and other characteristics. Then, using logistic regression, the association between cancer and drugs was studied while smoking was controlled. RESULTS Cigarette smoking, even after quitting, was also associated with bladder cancer (OR = 2.549). Considering the classification of occupations, the OR of working in metal industry in patients was 10.629. Multivariate analysis showed that use of the drug by itself can be a risk factor for bladder cancer. Drug abuse together with the control of smoking increased the risk of bladder cancer by 4.959. CONCLUSION According to the findings of this study, contact with metal industries such as welding, and working with tin was found as a risk factor for bladder cancer. In addition, cigarette smoking and opium abuse individually were associated with bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayeb Ghadimi
- Department of Surgery, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Bahman Gheitasi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Social Determinant of Health Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Sayran Nili
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Social Determinant of Health Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Social Determinant of Health Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Ghaderi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Social Determinant of Health Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
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Sharif Nia H, Chan YH, Haghdoost AA, Soleimani MA, Beheshti Z, Bahrami N. Varicose veins of the legs among nurses: Occupational and demographic characteristics. Int J Nurs Pract 2014; 21:313-20. [PMID: 24689446 DOI: 10.1111/ijn.12268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to determine the relationship between occupational and demographic hazards that characterize varicose veins (VV) in the legs and their intensity among nurses.A cross-sectional study was carried out among 203 nurses from three general hospitals in Amol, Iran. The required subjects' information was collected through a self-filled questionnaire and the physical examination of the VV intensity was based on the Clinical finding using the Etiology, Anatomic finding, Pathophysiological standards. The prevalence of VV, with different degrees, was 72.4% (95% CI 65.7-78.4), with women having a higher prevalence compared with men (77.9% vs. 56.9%, P = 0.004). The other non-interventional risk variable was having longer years of service. Interventional variables were long-standing hours, overtime work and body mass index status. This study had determined the occupational risk variables on VV which could be interventional in improving the working nurses' environment and quality of life for their long-term career.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Sharif Nia
- Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery of Amol, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- Research Center for Modeling in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Zahra Beheshti
- Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery of Amol, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Nasim Bahrami
- Faculty of Nursing and midwifery, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite known health risks related to the use of powdered latex gloves (PLGs), they are still widely used in hospitals in developing countries due to the high cost of alternatives. AIMS To determine the prevalence of dermal and respiratory symptoms associated with latex glove use in nurses in Thailand and evaluate the influence of previously reported occupational risk factors in this population. METHODS A cross-sectional study in female nurses working in three Thai hospitals. Participants completed a questionnaire on demographics, occupational and personal history, use of latex products at work and dermal and respiratory symptoms attributed to occupational use of latex gloves. RESULTS Of 899 nurses, 18% reported health effects attributed to the use of latex products. After adjustment for confounding, occupational risk factors associated with increased reporting of dermal symptoms included wearing more than 15 pairs of PLG per day (odds ratio (OR): 2.10, 95% confidence interval (CI): [1.32-3.34]), using chlorhexidine (OR: 2.07, 95% CI: [1.22-3.52]) and being an operating theatre nurse (OR: 2.46, 95% CI: [1.47-4.12]). Being a labour ward nurse (OR: 3.52, 95% CI: [1.26-9.85]) was the only factor associated with increased reporting of respiratory symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Continuing use of PLGs in Thai nurses is associated with increased prevalence of dermal symptoms compared with data from developed countries. Measures to reduce such health effects are well established and should be considered. Additionally, replacement of chlorhexidine with an alternative detergent seems advisable.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Supapvanich
- Department of Public Health, Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Yala, Thailand
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