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Hansson E, Jakobsson K, Glaser J, Wesseling C, Chavarria D, Lucas RAI, Prince H, Wegman DH. Impact of heat and a rest-shade-hydration intervention program on productivity of piece-paid industrial agricultural workers at risk of chronic kidney disease of nontraditional origin. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:366-375. [PMID: 38367206 PMCID: PMC11033565 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae007] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Assess the impact of environmental heat and a rest-shade-hydration (RSH) intervention against heat stress on productivity of piece-paid Mesoamerican sugarcane cutters. These workers are at a high risk of chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt), from the severe heat stress they experience due to heavy work under hot conditions. RSH interventions in these populations improve kidney health outcomes, but their impact on productivity has yet to be examined. METHODS We accessed routine productivity data from seed (SC, N = 749) and burned (BCC, N = 535) sugarcane cutters observed over five harvest seasons with increasing RSH intervention at a large Nicaraguan sugarcane mill. Hourly field-site wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) was recorded by mill staff and summarized as a daily mean. Mixed linear regression was used to model daily productivity, adjusting for age (18-29, 30-44, and >45 years), sex, WBGT (<28, 28-29, 29-30, 30-31, and >31 °C) on the same and preceding day, harvest season (2017-18 to 2021-22), month, and acclimatization status (<1, 1-2, and >2 weeks). RESULTS There was an inverse dose-response relationship between SC productivity and WBGT on the same and preceding days, decreasing by approximately 3%/°C WBGT. Productivity increased during the study period, i.e. coinciding with RSH scale-up, by approximately 19% in SC and 9% in BCC. CONCLUSION Agricultural worker productivity was expected lower on hotter days, strengthening the interest in all stakeholders to mitigate increasing global temperatures and their impact. Despite decreasing the total time allocated for work each day, an RSH intervention appears to result in increased productivity and no apparent loss in productivity.
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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, 413 90 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, 413 90 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Box 414, 413 90 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jason 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, 01854 MA, United States
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Chen WL, Lin GL, Lin YJ, Su TY, Wang CC, Wu WT. Cancer risks in a population-based study of agricultural workers: results from the Taiwan's Farmers and Health Cohort study. Scand J Work Environ Health 2023; 49:419-427. [PMID: 37449304 PMCID: PMC10821750 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.4106] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess cancer risk among agricultural workers compared to the general population. METHODS The study utilized data from Farmers' Health Insurance (FHI) in Taiwan, which enrolled agricultural workers (N=1 175 149). The enrolled workers were matched to a general population (N=1 175 149) of the same age, gender, township, and enrollment year. The study population was linked to the National Cancer Registry to identify new cancer cases between 2000 and 2018. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate the hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval for outcomes. RESULTS During the study period, 136 913 new cancers among agricultural workers were identified. The study found that male farmers had an increased cancer risk, including lymphocytic leukemia, chronic myelogenous leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), oral cancer, lip cancer, esophagus cancer, rectum and rectosigmoid junction cancer, liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer, lung cancer, trachea and bronchi cancer, and other non-melanoma skin cancer, even when considering the latency period. Female farmers had an elevated risk of multiple myeloma and other non-melanoma skin cancer. Moreover, only lymphoma, NHL, other lymphoid, and multiple myeloma, were both found to occur at different insurance periods. CONCLUSIONS This study provides farmer cancer patterns and risk, adding to the evidence that farmers are at increased risk of certain types of cancer, especially for hematological cancers. As exposure varies by farm operation type, individual farmer exposure may vary widely. Further understanding of the complex relationship between occupational exposure, environmental factors, and lifestyle factors is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Wei-Te Wu
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli County, 35053 Taiwan, ROC.
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Meyer A, Santos ASE, Asmus CIRF, Camara VM, Costa AJL, Sandler DP, Parks CG. Acute Kidney Failure among Brazilian Agricultural Workers: A Death-Certificate Case-Control Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph19116519. [PMID: 35682102 PMCID: PMC9179952 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116519] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that pesticides may play a role in chronic kidney disease. However, little is known about associations with acute kidney failure (AKF). We investigated trends in AKF and pesticide expenditures and associations with agricultural work in two Brazilian regions with intense use of pesticides, in the south and midwest. Using death certificate data, we investigated trends in AKF mortality (1980–2014). We used joinpoint regression to calculate annual percent changes in AKF mortality rates by urban/rural status and, in rural municipalities, by tertiles of per capita pesticide expenditures. We then compared AKF mortality in farmers and population controls from 2006 to 2014 using logistic regression to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals adjusted by age, sex, region, education, and race. AKF mortality increased in both regions regardless of urban/rural status; trends were steeper from the mid-1990s to 2000s, and in rural municipalities, they were higher by tertiles of pesticide expenditures. Agricultural workers were more likely to die from AKF than from other causes, especially at younger ages, among females, and in the southern municipalities. We observed increasing AKF mortality in rural areas with greater pesticide expenditures and an association of AKF mortality with agricultural work, especially among younger workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Meyer
- Occupational and Environmental Health Branch, Public Health Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-598, Brazil; (A.S.E.S.); (V.M.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-21973732000
| | - Aline Souza Espindola Santos
- Occupational and Environmental Health Branch, Public Health Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-598, Brazil; (A.S.E.S.); (V.M.C.)
| | | | - Volney Magalhaes Camara
- Occupational and Environmental Health Branch, Public Health Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-598, Brazil; (A.S.E.S.); (V.M.C.)
| | - Antônio José Leal Costa
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Branch, Public Health Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-598, Brazil;
| | - Dale P. Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (D.P.S.); (C.G.P.)
| | - Christine Gibson Parks
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (D.P.S.); (C.G.P.)
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Afshari M, Karimi-Shahanjarini A, Khoshravesh S, Besharati F. Effectiveness of interventions to promote pesticide safety and reduce pesticide exposure in agricultural health studies: A systematic review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245766. [PMID: 33497407 PMCID: PMC7837484 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is a relationship between pesticide exposure and farmworkers' health. Well-conducted evaluations can provide an insight into how to develop and implement more effective interventions to prevent farmers and farmworkers' exposure to pesticides. This review aimed to summarize the literature on the effectiveness of interventions to promote pesticide safety and reduce pesticide exposure among farmers and farmworkers. METHODS A comprehensive search on PubMed, Embase, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Agricola, NIOSHTIC, and Agris databases was performed to identify relevant studies published from 2000 to 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies assessing the effectiveness of interventions on a variety of outcomes related to pesticide exposure were considered. The searches were restricted to articles written in English. The methodological quality of included reviews was appraised using the Effective Public Health Practice Project quality assessment tool (EPHPP). RESULTS The initial search led to 47912 records, 31 studies of which including nine RCTs and twenty-two quasi-experimental studies met the criteria. The majority of the included studies focused on the educational/ behavioral approach. The studies that applied this approach were effective in improving the participants' knowledge and attitude; however, these interventions were less effective in terms of making changes in participants' behaviors and their risk of exposure to toxic pesticides. Multifaceted interventions were moderately effective in terms of improving farmers' and farmworkers' behaviors and reduction in exposure to toxic pesticides. We did not find any studies that had evaluated the effectiveness of engineering/technological, and legislation/enforcement interventions. CONCLUSIONS Although the majority of studies were based on an educational/behavioral approach and did not assess the effect of interventions on objective measures, the results of this review highlight the significant effectiveness of educational programs and some potential key elements of these interventions. These findings may inform policymakers to develop interventions to reduce pesticide exposure among farmers and farmworkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Afshari
- Department of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Akram Karimi-Shahanjarini
- Department of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Sahar Khoshravesh
- Department of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Besharati
- Department of Nursing, Zeynab (P.B.U.H) School of Nursing and Midwifery, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
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Fischer RSB, Unrine JM, Vangala C, Sanderson WT, Mandayam S, Murray KO. Evidence of nickel and other trace elements and their relationship to clinical findings in acute Mesoamerican Nephropathy: A case-control analysis. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240988. [PMID: 33170853 PMCID: PMC7654766 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although there are several hypothesized etiologies of Mesoamerican Nephropathy (MeN), evidence has not yet pointed to the underlying cause. Exposure to various trace elements can cause the clinical features observed in MeN. Methods and findings We measured 15 trace elements, including heavy metals, in renal case-patients (n = 18) and healthy controls (n = 36) in a MeN high-risk region of Nicaragua. Toenails clippings from study participants were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. A case-control analysis was performed, and concentrations were also analyzed over participant characteristics and clinical parameters. Nickel (Ni) concentrations were significantly higher in toenails from cases (1.554 mg/kg [0.176–42.647]) than controls (0.208 mg/kg [0.055–51.235]; p<0.001). Ni concentrations correlated positively with serum creatinine levels (p = 0.001) and negatively with eGFR (p = 0.001). Greater Ni exposure was also associated with higher leukocyte (p = 0.001) and neutrophil (p = 0.003) counts, fewer lymphocytes (p = 0.003), and lower hemoglobin (p = 0.004) and hematocrit (p = 0.011). Conclusions Low-dose, chronic environmental exposure to Ni is a possible health risk in this setting. Ni intoxication and resulting systemic and renal effects could explain the clinical signs observed during early MeN. This study provides compelling evidence for a role of Ni in the acute renal impairment observed in this MeN high-risk population. Additional work to assess exposure levels in a larger and heterogeneous population, identify environmental sources of Ni and exposure pathways, and evaluate the link between Ni and MeN pathogenesis are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S. B. Fischer
- Section of Tropical Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States of America
| | - Jason M. Unrine
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Chandan Vangala
- Section of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Wayne T. Sanderson
- Departments of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health, Southeast Center for Agricultural Health and Injury Prevention, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Sreedhar Mandayam
- Section of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Kristy O. Murray
- Section of Tropical Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, United States of America
- William T. Shearer Center for Human Immunobiology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Thamsuwan O, Galvin K, Tchong-French M, Aulck L, Boyle LN, Ching RP, McQuade KJ, Johnson PW. Comparisons of physical exposure between workers harvesting apples on mobile orchard platforms and ladders, part 1: Back and upper arm postures. Appl Ergon 2020; 89:103193. [PMID: 32771690 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103193] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study compared farmworkers' exposure to non-neutral postures using a new mobile platform apple harvesting method and the traditional method using ladders. Twenty-four workers were recruited and assigned into three groups: ladder workers (n = 8) picking apples from full trees using a ladder, mobile platform workers (n = 8) picking apples from upper part of the trees while standing on a moving platform, and ground-based mobile platform workers (n = 8) picking apples from lower part of the trees which the mobile platform workers left out. Upper arm and back inclinations were continuously monitored during harvesting using tri-axial accelerometers over full work shifts (~8 h). Upper arm posture was characterized as the percentage of time that upper arm flexion and abduction exceeded 30°, 60°, and 90°. Back posture was characterized as the percentage of time that torso angles (sagittal flexion or lateral bending) exceeded 10°, 20°, and 30°. The 10th, 50th, and 90th postural percentiles were also calculated. The platform workers had lower exposures to upper arm flexion and abduction than the ground and ladder workers. There were no differences in torso angles between the ladder and mobile platform workers; however, the ground workers were exposed to more and greater percentages of time in torso flexions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornwipa Thamsuwan
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Kit Galvin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maria Tchong-French
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lovenoor Aulck
- Information School, University of Washington, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Linda Ng Boyle
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Randal P Ching
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kevin J McQuade
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter W Johnson
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Thamsuwan O, Galvin K, Tchong-French M, Aulck L, Boyle LN, Ching RP, McQuade KJ, Johnson PW. Comparisons of physical exposure between workers harvesting apples on mobile orchard platforms and ladders, part 2: Repetitive upper arm motions. Appl Ergon 2020; 89:103192. [PMID: 32738460 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103192] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Farmworkers are exposed to physical risk factors including repetitive motions. Existing ergonomic assessment methods are primarily laboratory-based and, thus, inappropriate for use in the field. This study presents an approach to characterize the repetitive motions of the upper arms based on direct measurement using accelerometers. Repetition rates were derived from upper arm inclination data and with video recordings in the field. This method was used to investigate whether harvesting with mobile platforms (teams harvesting apples from the platform and the ground) increased the farmworkers' exposure to upper arm repetitive motions compared to traditional harvesting using ladders. The ladder workers had higher repetitive motions (13.7 cycles per minute) compared to the platform and ground workers (11.7 and 12.2 cycles per minutes). The higher repetitions in the ladder workers were likely due to their ability to work independently and the additional arm movements associated with ladder climbing and walking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornwipa Thamsuwan
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Kit Galvin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maria Tchong-French
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lovenoor Aulck
- Information School, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Linda Ng Boyle
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Randal P Ching
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kevin J McQuade
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter W Johnson
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Karimi A, Dianat I, Barkhordari A, Yusefzade I, Rohani-Rasaf M. A multicomponent ergonomic intervention involving individual and organisational changes for improving musculoskeletal outcomes and exposure risks among dairy workers. Appl Ergon 2020; 88:103159. [PMID: 32678778 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A field intervention study was implemented to evaluate the effects of individual (physical exercise programme and worker ergonomics training) and organisational changes (optimising work-rest schedule and revised task procedure) on musculoskeletal outcomes and their exposure risks among milking workers in a dairy plant. A questionnaire survey (including the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire [CMDQ]) and direct observations of working postures by using the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) method were used at baseline and 12-month follow-up. Shoulder, lower back and neck discomfort were found to be the most common problems. The results showed significant improvements in the frequency (neck, shoulder, lower back, forearm and knee symptoms), severity (shoulder, lower back and knee symptoms) and interference with work (particularly due to lower back symptoms) as well as in the exposure risks to musculoskeletal problems (using the QEC method) after the intervention. The findings support the effectiveness of implemented multiple component intervention for improving musculoskeletal health and exposure risks in the studied occupational group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azim Karimi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| | - Iman Dianat
- Department of Occupational Health and Ergonomics, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Abdullah Barkhordari
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| | - Iman Yusefzade
- Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Marzieh Rohani-Rasaf
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
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Abstract
Pesticides cause risks to the respiratory health of banana farming workers. To investigate the prevalence of ventilatory dysfunction in workers and characteristics of work in banana production in a region of the Ribeira Valley, Brazil. A questionnaire containing sociodemographic, work and health data was applied, as well as spirometry. The data were statistically analyzed with participants divided into two groups (presence or absence of ventilatory dysfunction). The majority were males, low schooling, mean age 39.6 years and 13.8 years of working time in banana farming. The prevalence of moderate obstructive disorder (10.0%), mild obstructive disorder (13.3%) and mild mixed disorder (3.3%) were observed. Obstructive disorders predominated, with decreased FEV1 and FEV1/FVC, in addition to being correlated with working time in banana farming. It was concluded that one-third of the workers had some type of ventilatory dysfunction and there was a relationship with work in banana farming.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Líria Yuri Yamauchi
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Santos, Brazil
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Fassa AG, Spada Fiori N, Dalke Meucci R, Müller Xavier Faria N, Peres de Carvalho M. [Neck pain among tobacco farm workers in Southern Brazil]. Salud Colect 2020; 16:e2307. [PMID: 33147389 DOI: 10.18294/sc.2020.2307] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to assess neck pain prevalence and associated factors among tobacco farm workers. This is a cross-sectional study of 2,469 tobacco farm workers in southern Brazil. An adapted version of the Nordic Questionnaire of Musculoskeletal Symptoms was used to characterize neck pain. Multivariate analysis was performed using Poisson regression, following a hierarchical theoretical model. Neck pain prevalence in the last year among the population studied was 7.4%. Worker age, tobacco smoking, tobacco bundling, use of heavy chainsaws, working at an intense or accelerated pace and green tobacco sickness were variables associated with neck pain in females. Among males, age, use of heavy chainsaws, working in a sitting position on the ground, pesticide poisoning, and green tobacco sickness were associated with the outcome. The study reinforces the importance of ergonomic and physiological workloads in the determination of neck pain. Future studies are needed to understand the role of pesticides and nicotine exposures on musculoskeletal problems. The mechanization of tobacco harvesting could reduce ergonomic and chemical exposure, thereby improving farmers' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa
- Doctora en Epidemiología. Profesora Titular, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brasil.
| | - Nadia Spada Fiori
- Doctora en Epidemiología. Profesora Adjunta, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brasil.
| | - Rodrigo Dalke Meucci
- Doctor en Epidemiología. Profesor Adjunto, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brasil.
| | - Neice Müller Xavier Faria
- Doctora en Epidemiología. Médica Ocupacional, Departamento de Saúde, Municipio de Bento Gonçalves, Brasil.
| | - Maitê Peres de Carvalho
- Doctora en Ciencias de la Salud. Investigadora, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brasil.
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Viegas S, Assunção R, Twarużek M, Kosicki R, Grajewski J, Viegas C. Mycotoxins feed contamination in a dairy farm - potential implications for milk contamination and workers' exposure in a One Health approach. J Sci Food Agric 2020; 100:1118-1123. [PMID: 31667844 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.10120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dairy farming feed can be contaminated with mycotoxins, affecting animals' health and milk quality. Dairy farming is also prone to occupational exposure to mycotoxins, and feed is recognized as a source of contamination in the workplace. An exploratory study was developed in a dairy farm located in Portugal intending to assess the mycotoxins present in the feed. RESULTS All the samples analyzed presented contamination by at least two mycotoxins and up to a maximum of 13 mycotoxins in the same sample. Zearalenone (ZEA) was detected in all the samples (n = 10) followed by deoxynivalenol (DON), which was reported in eight samples, and ochratoxin A (OTA), reported in five samples. CONCLUSION The results point to the possible contamination of milk by several mycotoxins and raise the possibility of occupational exposure to mycotoxins due to feed contamination. An adequate One Health approach for dairy production should address these issues through effective preventive actions such as avoiding the use of feed contaminated with mycotoxins. This represents an important challenge due to climate change. It requires proper attention and accurate management measures. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Viegas
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Assunção
- Food and Nutrition Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
- CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Experimental Biology, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Experimental Biology, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Jan Grajewski
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Experimental Biology, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Carla Viegas
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Masci F, Rosecrance J, Mixco A, Cortinovis I, Calcante A, Mandic-Rajcevic S, Colosio C. Personal and occupational factors contributing to biomechanical risk of the distal upper limb among dairy workers in the Lombardy region of Italy. Appl Ergon 2020; 83:102796. [PMID: 30611466 PMCID: PMC9531529 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2018.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Biomechanical overload in the wrist flexor and extensor muscles, together with awkward hand positions during work activities, can result in occupational wrist and hand disorders. Dairy workers, specifically those that work in the milking parlor, are exposed to highly repetitive and forceful exertions of the upper limb throughout their work shift. There are very few studies that have investigated the determinants that contribute to the risk of distal upper limb musculoskeletal disorders among dairy workers. The purpose of the present study was to identify the variables affecting the biomechanical overload of the distal upper limb among milking parlor workers, define risk profiles, and propose possible interventions to reduce the high physical loads to the distal upper limb during milking activities. Forty male workers from the three most common milking parlor systems in Lombardy Italy were recruited to participate in this study. Multiple correspondence analysis of personal characteristics and occupational risk factors, followed by cluster analysis, led to the identification of three distinct groups of workers. Low, medium and high risk profiles were assigned to each group based on the risk assessments performed using the Strain Index and electromyography of the distal upper limb. The main risk determinants were workstation characteristics, work organization and milking routine. A well-organized milking routine, milking cluster weight below 2.4 kg or the use of supporting arms for the milking cluster may reduce the risk of biomechanical overload.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Masci
- Department of Health Sciences of the University of Milan and International Center for Rural Health of Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy.
| | - J Rosecrance
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - A Mixco
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - I Cortinovis
- Laboratory "G.A. Maccacaro", Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - A Calcante
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - S Mandic-Rajcevic
- Department of Health Sciences of the University of Milan and International Center for Rural Health of Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - C Colosio
- Department of Health Sciences of the University of Milan and International Center for Rural Health of Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Cargnin MCDS, Cezar-Vaz MR, Getelina CO, Bonow CA. Socio-environmental risks associated with the green tobacco sickness in farmers: a case-control study. Rev Bras Enferm 2019; 72:1670-1676. [PMID: 31644759 DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2018-0803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to determine the presence of socio-environmental risk factors for the development of Green Tobacco Sickness in workers who grow Burley tobacco. METHOD matched case-control study. The data collection took place in two moments: from December 2016 to January 2017 and December 2017, when the Burley tobacco was collected, through a household survey with interview application and urine collection for urinary cotinine. RESULTS the socio-environmental risk factors that remained associated with the disease were: bundling tobacco (p=0.047) and wearing socks (p=0.011); with protective effect were found sticking tobacco seeding of the day (p=0.006) and number of tobacco harvested per day (p=0.021). CONCLUSION the steps in the Burley tobacco work process increase the exposure and risk of developing the disease. By identifying these factors, it is possible to address interdisciplinary control and prevention measures.
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Kim M, Yoo JI, Kim MJ, Na JB, Lee SI, Park KS. Prevalence of Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Diseases and Disability among Fruit Tree Farmers in Korea: Cross-Sectional Study. Yonsei Med J 2019; 60:870-875. [PMID: 31433585 PMCID: PMC6704024 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2019.60.9.870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of upper extremity musculoskeletal (MSK) diseases and to identify factors influencing disability among fruit tree farmers in Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS Of the 1150 subjects of the Namgaram study, 460 fruit tree farmers completed a questionnaire and underwent clinical evaluations, including physical assessments, laboratory tests, simple radiographic examinations, and magnetic resonance imaging studies of the upper extremities. Disability was assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand outcome measure. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and regression analyses using SPSS Win 24.0. RESULTS The prevalences of upper extremity MSK diseases were 60.4% for rotator cuff tear, 20.9% for golf elbow, 40.9% for tennis elbow, and 58.0% for hand osteoarthritis. Disability in fruit farmers was associated with female sex (B=-4.47, p<0.001), smoking (B=-4.00, p=0.026), depression (B=2.83, p<0.001), working hours (B=0.96, p=0.001), injuries of the arms (B=10.78, p<0.001) and shoulders (B=6.75, p<0.001), and numbers of upper extremity MSK diseases (B=2.02, p=0.001), with 26.5% of the variance explained (R²=0.265, Durbin-Watson test=1.81, p<0.001). CONCLUSION Fruit tree farmers remain at risk for MSK diseases of the upper extremities. Disability tended to worsen with more MSK diseases. It is necessary to not only educate farmers about prevention strategies, but also to develop an effective management system for agricultural work-related MSK diseases and a surveillance system at the government level for the health problems of farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minju Kim
- Department of Nursing, Dong-A University College of Nursing, Busan, Korea
| | - Jun Il Yoo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Gyeongsang National University Hospital and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
| | - Mi Ji Kim
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Jae Boem Na
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Radiology and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Sang Il Lee
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Ki Soo Park
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea.
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Choochouy N, Kongtip P, Chantanakul S, Nankongnab N, Sujirarat D, Woskie SR. Hearing Loss in Agricultural Workers Exposed to Pesticides and Noise. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 63:707-718. [PMID: 31161207 PMCID: PMC7312224 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxz035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Agricultural workers who have concurrent exposure to pesticides and noise are at increased risk of hearing loss. We recruited 163 Thai conventional and 172 organic farmers to answer our questionnaires about personal demographics, agricultural activities, and pesticide and agricultural machinery use. This information was used to calculate the years of conventional (pesticide use) farming and the years of agricultural noise exposure, and to estimate semiquantitative metrics for pesticide exposure (cumulative intensity score-years) and cumulative noise exposure (dB(A)-years) for each conventional farmer. All participants underwent pure tone audiometric testing. The mean hearing threshold in the low-frequency band (0.5-2 kHz) and high-frequency band (3-6 kHz) were used for analysis. Years involved in conventional farming and years using agricultural machinery were associated with an increase in the average hearing threshold for the high-frequency band after controlling for age, ever exposed to industrial noise and cigarette smoking. The highest category of cumulative insecticide exposure (score-years), cumulative organophosphates exposure (score-years) and cumulative noise exposure (dB(A)-years) were also associated with an increased high-frequency band hearing threshold among conventional farmers. Results from the full cohort and the subcohort of conventional farmers support each other and the hypothesis that pesticide and noise have an additive effect on hearing, since no model interactions were significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nattagorn Choochouy
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pornpimol Kongtip
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suttinun Chantanakul
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Noppanun Nankongnab
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Dusit Sujirarat
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Susan R Woskie
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
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Gunatilake S, Seneff S, Orlando L. Glyphosate's Synergistic Toxicity in Combination with Other Factors as a Cause of Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Origin. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2019; 16:E2734. [PMID: 31370256 PMCID: PMC6695815 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16152734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) is a global epidemic. Sri Lanka has experienced a doubling of the disease every 4 or 5 years since it was first identified in the North Central province in the mid-1990s. The disease primarily affects people in agricultural regions who are missing the commonly known risk factors for CKD. Sri Lanka is not alone: health workers have reported prevalence of CKDu in Mexico, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and the state of Andhra Pradesh in India. A global search for the cause of CKDu has not identified a single factor, but rather many factors that may contribute to the etiology of the disease. Some of these factors include heat stroke leading to dehydration, toxic metals such as cadmium and arsenic, fluoride, low selenium, toxigenic cyanobacteria, nutritionally deficient diet and mycotoxins from mold exposure. Furthermore, exposure to agrichemicals, particularly glyphosate and paraquat, are likely compounding factors, and may be the primary factors. Here, we argue that glyphosate in particular is working synergistically with most of the other factors to increase toxic effects. We propose, further, that glyphosate causes insidious harm through its action as an amino acid analogue of glycine, and that this interferes with natural protective mechanisms against other exposures. Glyphosate's synergistic health effects in combination with exposure to other pollutants, in particular paraquat, and physical labor in the ubiquitous high temperatures of lowland tropical regions, could result in renal damage consistent with CKDu in Sri Lanka.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarath Gunatilake
- Health Science Department, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA
| | - Stephanie Seneff
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | - Laura Orlando
- Environmental Health Department, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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17
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Serrano-Medina A, Ugalde-Lizárraga A, Bojorquez-Cuevas MS, Garnica-Ruiz J, González-Corral MA, García-Ledezma A, Pineda-García G, Cornejo-Bravo JM. Neuropsychiatric Disorders in Farmers Associated with Organophosphorus Pesticide Exposure in a Rural Village of Northwest México. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2019; 16:E689. [PMID: 30813607 PMCID: PMC6427808 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16050689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to determine the degree of acetylcholinesterase inhibition and neurological symptoms for each of the psychiatric disorders diagnosed in the farm workers of a rural population in the state of Baja California, Mexico. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 140 agricultural workers (exposed participants). The study was run using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview Diagnostic Test (MINI), a pre-established questionnaire to diagnose the mental state of each agricultural worker. Analysis of enzymatic activity was carried out using the modified Ellman method. The results showed that, among agricultural workers with slightly inhibited enzymatic activity, 25% met the criteria for the diagnosis of major depression with suicidal attitudes, 23.9% with inhibited enzymatic activity showed generalized anxiety, 23.5% showed combined depression⁻anxiety, and 22% met the criteria for major depression and no psychiatric diagnosis disorder. These results suggest the need for the development of effective public-health strategies to inform farm workers about integrated pesticide management in order to prevent serious health complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aracely Serrano-Medina
- Facultad de Medicina y Psicología, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana 22300, Mexico.
| | - Angel Ugalde-Lizárraga
- Facultad de Medicina y Psicología, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana 22300, Mexico.
| | - Michelle Stephanie Bojorquez-Cuevas
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas e Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana 22300, Mexico.
| | - Jatniel Garnica-Ruiz
- Facultad de Medicina y Psicología, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana 22300, Mexico.
| | - Martín Alexis González-Corral
- Facultad de Medicina y Psicología, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana 22300, Mexico.
| | - Arnold García-Ledezma
- Facultad de Medicina y Psicología, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana 22300, Mexico.
| | - Gisela Pineda-García
- Facultad de Medicina y Psicología, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana 22300, Mexico.
| | - José Manuel Cornejo-Bravo
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas e Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana 22300, Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl K Seymour
- From the Maine Mobile Health Program, Maine-Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency, Augusta (C.K.S.); and the United Indian Health Services, Arcata (C.G.), the University of California Berkeley, Berkeley (S.M.H., C.M.), and the University of California San Francisco, San Francisco (S.M.H., C.M.) - all in California
| | - Carrie Griffin
- From the Maine Mobile Health Program, Maine-Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency, Augusta (C.K.S.); and the United Indian Health Services, Arcata (C.G.), the University of California Berkeley, Berkeley (S.M.H., C.M.), and the University of California San Francisco, San Francisco (S.M.H., C.M.) - all in California
| | - Seth M Holmes
- From the Maine Mobile Health Program, Maine-Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency, Augusta (C.K.S.); and the United Indian Health Services, Arcata (C.G.), the University of California Berkeley, Berkeley (S.M.H., C.M.), and the University of California San Francisco, San Francisco (S.M.H., C.M.) - all in California
| | - Carlos Martinez
- From the Maine Mobile Health Program, Maine-Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency, Augusta (C.K.S.); and the United Indian Health Services, Arcata (C.G.), the University of California Berkeley, Berkeley (S.M.H., C.M.), and the University of California San Francisco, San Francisco (S.M.H., C.M.) - all in California
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Sak ZHA, Kurtuluş Ş, Ocakli B, Töreyin ZN, Bayhan İ, Yeşilnacar Mİ, Akgün M, Arbak P. Respiratory symptoms and pulmonary functions before and after pesticide application in cotton farming. Ann Agric Environ Med 2018; 25:701-707. [PMID: 30586963 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/99561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OJECTIVE To investigate respiratory health problems related to pesticide exposure in the inhabitants of agricultural areas. MATERIAL AND METHODS This study included 252 participants prior to pesticide application and 66 participants from the first group after pesticide application across four cotton farms. Symptom questionnaires were filled out by participants and respiratory function tests were measured before and after pesticide exposure. In addition, PM10, PM2.5, air temperature, and humidity were measured in all four farming villages before and after pesticide administration. RESULTS PM10 and PM2.5 levels were significantly increased after pesticide application. After pesticide application, all participants' nose, throat, eye, and respiratory complaints increased significantly. Expected forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) percentage values decreased significantly. The rates of FVC and FEV1 values lower than 80% were 23.5% and 22%, espectively, before pesticide application, and this rate increased to 42.4% and 43.1%, respectively, after pesticide application. There was a significant negative correlation between PM10 levels and FVC, FEV1, and PEF values. After PM2.5 pesticide application, the risk of experiencing burning in the mouth, nose, and throat increased by 2.3-fold (OR: 2.316), 2.6-fold for burning symptoms in the eyes (OR: 2.593), 2.1-fold for wheezing (OR: 2.153), and 2.2-fold for chest tightness (OR: 2.211). With increased PM10 levels, the risk of chest tightness increased 1.1-fold (OR: 1.123). CONCLUSIONS After pesticide administration, the respiratory health of the participants deteriorated. Performing pesticide applications in agriculture with harmless methods is the most important measure to be taken to protect public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zafer Hasan Ali Sak
- Department of Chest Diseases, University School of Medicine, Harran, Turkey.
| | - Şerif Kurtuluş
- Department of Chest Diseases, University School of Medicine, Harran, Turkey.
| | - Birsen Ocakli
- Chest Diseases and Thoracic Surgery Training and Research, Süreyyapaşa, Turkey.
| | - Zehra Nur Töreyin
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Diseases, University School of Medicine, Ege, Turkey.
| | - İbrahim Bayhan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, University Engineering Faculty, Harran, Turkey.
| | - M İrfan Yeşilnacar
- Department of Environmental Engineering, University Engineering Faculty, Harran, Turkey.
| | - Metin Akgün
- Department of ChestDiseases, Atatürk University School of Medicine, Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Peri Arbak
- Department of ChestDiseases, University School of Medicine, Düzce, Turkey.
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20
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Tanaś W, Szczepaniak J, Kromulski J, Szymanek M, Tanaś J, Sprawka M. Modal analysis and acoustic noise characterization of a grain crusher. Ann Agric Environ Med 2018; 25:433-436. [PMID: 30260195 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/87154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Noise is one of the most important physical factors occurring in private farmers' working environment. Hazardous noise exposures and hearing loss have been documented among farmers and farm workers for many years. In most cases, reducing the amplitude of vibratory motion of elements in a machine will reduce the noise generated by the machine element. The authors present the results on studies performed on a grain crusher with the aim of optimizing their acoustic behaviour. MATERIALS AND METHOD The dynamic behaviour of a grain crusher was investigated by identification of its natural frequency and damping parameters. The study was conducted using the experimental modal analysis technique. The excitation was generated at one single point by a vibration exciter, and the response signals were acquired by an accelerometers fixed at different points of the grain crusher. The modal parameters were determined from a set of frequency response measurements between a reference point and a number of measurement points of the structure. RESULTS The introduced structural modifications reduced the noise level by 3dB (A)5 dB[lin]) for the hopper component frequencies related to the vibration of the hopper (180 Hz) and the crusher support structure (240 to 480 Hz). The level of these components determines the level of noise at the operator's work station for the average conditions of filling the hopper with grain. The total noise level at the crusher operator was reduced by 2.6 dB (A). CONCLUSIONS Reducing the amplitude of vibratory motion of the elements in a machine will reduce the noise generated by the machine element. The obtained results confirm that structural dynamic modification is an effective tool for changing the dynamical properties of vibrating systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Szczepaniak
- Industrial Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Jacek Kromulski
- Industrial Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Poznań, Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Burckhardt
- Federal State Agency for Consumer and Health Protection, Rhineland-Palatinate, Koblenz, Germany
| | | | - Klaus Jahn
- Federal State Ministry for Social Affairs, Employment, Health, and Demographics, Rhineland-Palatinate, Mainz, Germany
| | | | | | - Manfred Vogt
- Federal State Agency for Consumer and Health Protection, Rhineland-Palatinate, Koblenz, Germany
| | - Stefan Bent
- Federal State Agency for Consumer and Health Protection, Rhineland-Palatinate, Koblenz, Germany
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Chmielowiec-Korzeniowska A, Tymczyna L, Pyrz M, Trawińska B, Abramczyk K, Dobrowolska M. Occupational exposure level of pig facility workers to chemical and biological pollutants. Ann Agric Environ Med 2018; 25:262-267. [PMID: 29936814 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/78479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess the impact of a fattening season on the level of airborne chemical and microbial pollutants in the pig fattening house. MATERIAL AND METHODS Evaluation of the air composition as well as the microbiological air quality were made during 2 series, i.e. in the summer and winter period of fattening. Airborne gaseous pollutants were analyzed by gas (organic compounds) and liquid (inorganic compounds) chromatography methods. Air microbial contamination was determined in compliance with the Polish Standard PN-EN 13098:2007. RESULTS The air/gas composition in the pig unit showed that irrespective of the fattening season, the level of determined pollutants - especially ammonia, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including methanethiol and total dust - could have an adverse effect on the health of swine facility workers. The investigated pig building was found to be a source of chemical pollutants as well as biological agents. The total bacterial count in 1 m3 of air was 3.6×106 and 4.6×106 cfu, during the winter and summer periods of fattening, respectively. Gram-positive cocci predominated in both seasons. In the winter, fungi of the Trichoderma genus were represented equally often. In the summer period, up to 90% of the isolated fungus was Aspergillus spp. CONCLUSIONS Workers engaged in swine rearing and production are occupationally exposed not only to a high concentration of microbial contamination, but also to irritating and odorogenous volatile compounds. Thus, activities directed at the promotion of health prevention strategies, as well as effective guidelines for safe and hygienic animal housing, should be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Karol Abramczyk
- Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation - State Research Institute, Puławy.
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Kim JH, Dennerlein JT, Johnson PW. The effect of a multi-axis suspension on whole body vibration exposures and physical stress in the neck and low back in agricultural tractor applications. Appl Ergon 2018; 68:80-89. [PMID: 29409658 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2017.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [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: 11/23/2016] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Whole body vibration (WBV) exposures are often predominant in the fore-aft (x) or lateral (y) axis among off-road agricultural vehicles. However, as the current industry standard seats are designed to reduce mainly vertical (z) axis WBV exposures, they may be less effective in reducing drivers' exposure to multi-axial WBV. Therefore, this laboratory-based study aimed to determine the differences between a single-axial (vertical) and multi-axial (vertical + lateral) suspension seat in reducing WBV exposures, head acceleration, self-reported discomfort, and muscle activity (electromyography) of the major muscle of the low back, neck and shoulders. The results showed that the multi-axial suspension seat had significantly lower WBV exposures compared to the single-axial suspension seats (p' < 0.04). Similarly, the multi-axial suspension seat had lower head acceleration and muscle activity of the neck, shoulder, and low back compared to the single-axial suspension seat; some but not all of the differences were statistically significant. These results indicate that the multi-axial suspension seat may reduce the lateral WBV exposures and associated muscular loading in the neck and low back in agricultural vehicle operators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Ho Kim
- Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA.
| | - Jack T Dennerlein
- Department of Physical Therapy, Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter W Johnson
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Lerro CC, Beane Freeman LE, DellaValle CT, Kibriya MG, Aschebrook-Kilfoy B, Jasmine F, Koutros S, Parks CG, Sandler DP, Alavanja MCR, Hofmann JN, Ward MH. Occupational pesticide exposure and subclinical hypothyroidism among male pesticide applicators. Occup Environ Med 2018; 75:79-89. [PMID: 28775130 PMCID: PMC5771820 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2017-104431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Animal studies suggest that exposure to pesticides may alter thyroid function; however, few epidemiologic studies have examined this association. We evaluated the relationship between individual pesticides and thyroid function in 679 men enrolled in a substudy of the Agricultural Health Study, a cohort of licensed pesticide applicators. METHODS Self-reported lifetime pesticide use was obtained at cohort enrolment (1993-1997). Intensity-weighted lifetime days were computed for 33 pesticides, which adjusts cumulative days of pesticide use for factors that modify exposure (eg, use of personal protective equipment). Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3) and antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) autoantibodies were measured in serum collected in 2010-2013. We used multivariate logistic regression to estimate ORs and 95% CIs for subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH >4.5 mIU/L) compared with normal TSH (0.4-<4.5 mIU/L) and for anti-TPO positivity. We also examined pesticide associations with TSH, T4 and T3 in multivariate linear regression models. RESULTS Higher exposure to the insecticide aldrin (third and fourth quartiles of intensity-weighted days vs no exposure) was positively associated with subclinical hypothyroidism (ORQ3=4.15, 95% CI 1.56 to 11.01, ORQ4=4.76, 95% CI 1.53 to 14.82, ptrend <0.01), higher TSH (ptrend=0.01) and lower T4 (ptrend=0.04). Higher exposure to the herbicide pendimethalin was associated with subclinical hypothyroidism (fourth quartile vs no exposure: ORQ4=2.78, 95% CI 1.30 to 5.95, ptrend=0.02), higher TSH (ptrend=0.04) and anti-TPO positivity (ptrend=0.01). The fumigant methyl bromide was inversely associated with TSH (ptrend=0.02) and positively associated with T4 (ptrend=0.01). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that long-term exposure to aldrin, pendimethalin and methyl bromide may alter thyroid function among male pesticide applicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine C Lerro
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Laura E Beane Freeman
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Curt T DellaValle
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland, USA
- Environmental Working Group, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Muhammad G Kibriya
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Farzana Jasmine
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Stella Koutros
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Christine G Parks
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dale P Sandler
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael C R Alavanja
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland, USA
- Department of Biology, Hood College, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Jonathan N Hofmann
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Mary H Ward
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland, USA
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Abstract
Agricultural workers perform tasks that frequently require awkward and extreme postures that are associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The PATH (Posture, Activity, Tools, Handling) system currently provides a sound methodology for quantifying workers' exposure to these awkward postures on an ordinal scale of measurement, which places restrictions on the choice of analytic methods. This study reports a modification of the PATH methodology that instead captures these postures as degrees of flexion, an interval-scaled measurement. Rather than making live observations in the field, as in PATH, the postural assessments were performed on photographs using ImageJ photo analysis software. Capturing the postures in photographs permitted more careful measurement of the degrees of flexion. The current PATH methodology requires that the observer in the field be trained in the use of PATH, whereas the single photographer used in this modification requires only sufficient training to maintain the proper camera angle. Ultimately, these interval-scale measurements could be combined with other quantitative measures, such as those produced by electromyograms (EMGs), to provide more sophisticated estimates of future risk for MSDs. Further, these data can provide a baseline from which the effects of interventions designed to reduce hazardous postures can be calculated with greater precision.
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Reis MMD, Oliveira APND, Turci SRB, Dantas RM, Silva VDSPD, Gross C, Jensen T, Silva VLDCE. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of women farmers concerning tobacco agriculture in a municipality in Southern Brazil. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2017; 33Suppl 3:e00080516. [PMID: 28954049 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00080516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of women farmers working in tobacco production concerning the social, environmental, and health impacts of this economic activity. Focus groups were used in this qualitative study, and themes were explored until reaching saturation. The study was conducted in a municipality (county) in southern Brazil in 2013 and included 64 women farmers. The discussions revealed participants' familiarity with health problems associated with workloads in tobacco production: green tobacco sickness, pesticide poisoning, musculoskeletal disorders, and others. The discussions also revealed a concern with the negative impacts of tobacco agriculture on the environment. They also revealed apprehension concerning decisions on switching to alternatives for sustainable agricultural production, emphasizing that on-going and systematic government support would be necessary for such a transition. Women farmers identified various factors that contribute to the persistence of tobacco farming: small holdings for cultivation, lack of guarantees for marketing crops, and indebtedness to tobacco companies. The study showed that an integrated approach is needed to deal with tobacco farmers' problems, considering a balance between farmers' beliefs and government decisions. This approach, in keeping with the recommendations of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, may help strengthen policies and measures to promote health and sustainable local development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Moreno Dos Reis
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | - Cátia Gross
- Sindicato dos Trabalhadores Rurais de Palmeira, Palmeira, Brasil
| | - Teresinha Jensen
- Superintendência de Atenção à Saúde, Secretaria de Estado de Saúde do Paraná, Curitiba, Brasil
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Watts TJ, Li PH, Thomas I, Haque R. Occupational Allergic Contact Dermatitis due to Multiple Tropical Plant Species. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract 2017; 5:1411-1412. [PMID: 28529083 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2017.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 04/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Watts
- Department of Adult Allergy, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Philip H Li
- Department of Adult Allergy, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom; Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Iason Thomas
- Department of Adult Allergy, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rubaiyat Haque
- Department of Adult Allergy, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Rinsky JL, Richardson DB, Wing S, Beard JD, Alavanja M, Beane Freeman LE, Chen H, Henneberger PK, Kamel F, Sandler DP, Hoppin JA. Assessing the Potential for Bias From Nonresponse to a Study Follow-up Interview: An Example From the Agricultural Health Study. Am J Epidemiol 2017; 186:395-404. [PMID: 28486574 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwx098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Prospective cohort studies are important tools for identifying causes of disease. However, these studies are susceptible to attrition. When information collected after enrollment is through interview or exam, attrition leads to missing information for nonrespondents. The Agricultural Health Study enrolled 52,394 farmers in 1993-1997 and collected additional information during subsequent interviews. Forty-six percent of enrolled farmers responded to the 2005-2010 interview; 7% of farmers died prior to the interview. We examined whether response was related to attributes measured at enrollment. To characterize potential bias from attrition, we evaluated differences in associations between smoking and incidence of 3 cancer types between the enrolled cohort and the subcohort of 2005-2010 respondents, using cancer registry information. In the subcohort we evaluated the ability of inverse probability weighting (IPW) to reduce bias. Response was related to age, state, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, smoking, and alcohol consumption. When exposure and outcome were associated and case response was differential by exposure, some bias was observed; IPW conditional on exposure and covariates failed to correct estimates. When response was nondifferential, subcohort and full-cohort estimates were similar, making IPW unnecessary. This example provides a demonstration of investigating the influence of attrition in cohort studies using information that has been self-reported after enrollment.
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Zeng X, Kociolek AM, Khan MI, Milosavljevic S, Bath B, Trask C. Whole body vibration exposure patterns in Canadian prairie farmers. Ergonomics 2017; 60:1064-1073. [PMID: 27780437 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2016.1252859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Whole body vibration is a significant physical risk factor associated with low back pain. This study assessed farmers' exposure to whole body vibration on the Canadian prairies according to ISO 2631-1. Eighty-seven vibration measurements were collected with a triaxial accelerometer embedded in a rubber seat pad at the operator-seat interface of agricultural machinery, including tractors, combines, pickup trucks, grain trucks, sprayers, swathers, all-terrain vehicles, and skid steers. Whole body vibration was highest in the vertical axis, with a mean (range) frequency-weighted root mean squared acceleration of 0.43 m/s2 (0.19-1.06 m/s2). Mean crest factors exceeded 9 in all 3 axes, indicating high mechanical shock content. The vertical axis vibration dose value was 7.55 m/s1.75 (2.18-37.59 m/s1.75), with 41.4% of measurements within or above the health guidance caution zone. These high exposures in addition to an ageing agricultural workforce may increase health risks even further, particularly for the low back. Practitioner Summary: Agricultural workers are frequently exposed to whole body vibration while operating farm equipment, presenting a substantial risk to musculoskeletal health including the low back. Assessing vibration exposure is critical in promoting a safe occupational environment, and may inform interventions to reduce farmer's exposure to vibration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoke Zeng
- a Department of Community Health and Epidemiology , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
| | - Aaron M Kociolek
- b School of Physical and Health Education , Nipissing University , North Bay , Canada
| | - Muhammad Idrees Khan
- a Department of Community Health and Epidemiology , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
| | | | - Brenna Bath
- c School of Physical Therapy , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
- d Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
| | - Catherine Trask
- d Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to estimate the seroprevalence of human brucellosis in livestock professionals and analyze the factors associated with brucellosis focusing on sociodemographic variables and the variables of knowledge and practices related to the characteristics of the activities carried out in livestock. METHODS This is a cross-sectional seroepidemiological study with a population of 131 workers of butchers, slaughter rooms, and slaughterhouse and 192 breeders sampled randomly in Namibe province, Angola. The data were obtained from the collection of blood and use of questionnaires. The laboratory tests used were rose bengal and slow agglutination. The questionnaire allowed us to collect sociodemographic information and, specifically on brucellosis, it incorporated questions about knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of livestock professionals. In addition to the descriptive statistical approach, we used the Chi-square test of independence, Fisher's test, and logistic regression models, using a significance level of 10%. RESULTS The general weighted prevalence of brucellosis was 15.6% (95%CI 13.61-17.50), being it 5.3% in workers and 16.7% (95%CI 11.39-21.93) in breeders. The statistical significance was observed between human seroprevalence and category (worker and breeder) (p < 0.001) and education level (p = 0.032), start of activity (p = 0079), and service location (p = 0.055). In a multivariate context, the positive factor associated with brucellosis in professionals was the professional category (OR = 3.54; 95%CI 1.57-8.30, related to breeders in relation to workers). CONCLUSIONS Human brucellosis in livestock professionals is prevalent in Namibe province (15.6%), where the professional category was the most important factor. The seroprevalence levels detected are high when compared with those found in similar studies. OBJECTIVO Estimar a seroprevalência da brucelose humana em profissionais da pecuária e analisar os factores associados à brucelose com foco em variáveis sociodemográficas, de conhecimento e práticas relativas às características das actividades desenvolvidas na pecuária. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal seroepidemiológico em população de 131 trabalhadores de talhos, salas de abate e matadouro e 192 criadores amostrados aleatoriamente na província do Namibe, Angola. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de colheita de sangue e aplicação de questionário. Os testes laboratoriais utilizados foram o Rosa de Bengala e a aglutinação lenta em tubos. O questionário permitiu recolher informação sociodemográfica e, especificamente sobre a brucelose, incorporou questões sobre conhecimento, atitudes e comportamentos dos profissionais da pecuária. Além da abordagem estatística descritiva, foram utilizados os testes de Independência do Qui-quadrado, Fisher e modelos de regressão logística, utilizando um nível de significância de 10%. RESULTADOS A prevalência geral ponderada da brucelose foi de 15.6% (IC95% 13.61-17.50), sendo 5.3% em trabalhadores e 16.7% (IC95% 11.39-21.93) em criadores. A significância estatística foi observada entre a seroprevalência humana e a categoria (trabalhador e criador) (p < 0.001) e o nível de instrução (p = 0.032), início de actividade (p = 0.079) e local de serviço (p = 0.055). Em um contexto multivariado, o factor positivamente associado à brucelose em profissionais foi a categoria profissional (OR = 3.54; IC95% 1.57-8.30, relativo aos criadores em relação a trabalhadores). CONCLUSÕES A brucelose humana em profissionais da pecuária é prevalente na província do Namibe (15.6%), onde a categoria profissional foi o factor mais relevante. Os níveis de seroprevalência detectados são elevados se comparados com outros encontrados em estudos semelhantes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Cazembe Mufinda
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública. Universidade Nova de Lisboa. Lisboa, Portugal
- Direcção Provincial de Saúde do Namibe-Angola. Moçâmedes, Namibe, Angola
| | - Fernando Boinas
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Sanidade Animal. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária. Universidade de Lisboa. Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Nunes
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública. Universidade Nova de Lisboa. Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública. Universidade Nova de Lisboa. Lisboa, Portugal
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Abstract
Arsenicals in agriculture. Beginning in the 1970s, the use of arsenic compounds for such purposes as wood preservatives, began to grow. By 1980, in the USA, 70% of arsenic had been consumed for the production of wood preservatives. This practice was later stopped, due to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ban of the arsenic-and chromium-based wood preservative chromated copper arsenate. In the past, arsenical herbicides containing cacodylic acid as an active ingredient have been used extensively in the USA, from golf courses to cotton fields, and drying-out the plants before harvesting. The original commercial form of Agent Blue was among 10 toxic insecticides, fungicides and herbicides partially deregulated by the US EPA in February 2004, and specific limits on toxic residues in meat, milk, poultry and eggs, were removed. Today, however, they are no longer used as weed-killers, with one exception - monosodium methanearsonate (MSMA), a broadleaf weed herbicide for use on cotton. Severe poisonings from cacodylic acid caused headache, dizziness, vomiting, profuse and watery diarrhea, followed by dehydration, gradual fall in blood pressure, stupor, convulsions, general paralysis and possible risk of death within 3-14 days.The relatively frequent use of arsenic and its compounds in both industry and agriculture points to a wide spectrum of opportunities for human exposure. This exposure can be via inhalation of airborne arsenic, contaminated drinking water, beverages, or from food and drugs. Today, acute organic arsenical poisonings are mostly accidental. Considerable concern has developed surrounding its delayed effects, for its genotoxic and carcinogenic potential, which has been demonstrated in epidemiological studies and subsequent animal experiments. Conclusions. There is substantial epidemiological evidence for an excessive risk, mostly for skin and lung cancer, among humans exposed to organic arsenicals in occupational and environmental settings. Furthermore, the genotoxic and carcinogenic effects have only been observed at relatively high exposure rates. Current epidemiological and experimental studies are attempting to elucidate the mechanism of this action, pointing to the question whether arsenic is actually a true genotoxic, or rather an epigenetic carcinogen. Due to the complexity of its effects, both options remain plausible. Its interactions with other toxic substances still represent another important field of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Bencko
- Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Florence Yan Li Foong
- Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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Boccolini PDMM, Boccolini CS, Chrisman JDR, Koifman RJ, Meyer A. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma among Brazilian agricultural workers: A death certificate case-control study. Arch Environ Occup Health 2017; 72:139-144. [PMID: 27097109 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2016.1179167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
To estimate the non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) mortality risk among agricultural workers in Brazil's southern states, we used death certificates to identify cases of NHL between the ages of 20 and 69 years from residents of nonurban municipalities between 1996 and 2005 (n = 1,317). Controls were randomly selected from those whose underlying cause of death did not include neoplasm or hematological diseases and paired with cases by sex, age, year of death, and state of residence (n = 2,634). Odds of being an agricultural worker among cases and controls were estimated by conditional logistic regression, stratified and adjusted by sex, state, education, and race. An increased risk of death by NHL was observed among agricultural workers 20-39 years old (ORadj = 2.06; 95% CI 95%, 1.20-3.14). Our results suggest that the young agricultural workers from southern Brazil were more likely to die of NHL compared to nonagricultural workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia de Moraes Mello Boccolini
- a Collective Health Graduate Program , Institute for Studies in Collective Health, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Cristiano Siqueira Boccolini
- b Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Juliana de Rezende Chrisman
- a Collective Health Graduate Program , Institute for Studies in Collective Health, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Rosalina Jorge Koifman
- c Department of Epidemiology and Quantitative Methods , Oswaldo Cruz Foundation , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Armando Meyer
- d Department of Environmental and Occupational Health , Institute for Studies in Collective Health, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
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Weissenburger-Moser L, Meza J, Yu F, Shiyanbola O, Romberger DJ, LeVan TD. A principal factor analysis to characterize agricultural exposures among Nebraska veterans. J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol 2017; 27:214-220. [PMID: 27049536 PMCID: PMC5318659 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2016.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Agricultural workers are at an increased risk of developing chronic respiratory disorders. Accurate estimation of long-term agricultural exposures based on questionnaires has been used to improve the validity of epidemiologic investigations and subsequent evaluation of the association between agricultural exposures and chronic diseases. Our aim was to use principal factor analysis (PFA) to distill exposure data into essential variables characterizing long-term agricultural exposures. This is a cross-sectional study of veterans between the ages of 40 and 80 years and who worked on a farm for ≥2 years. Participant characteristics were: 98.1% were white males with a mean age 65±8 (SD) years and 39.8% had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The final model included four factors and explained 16.6% of the variance in the exposure data. Factor 1 was a heterogeneous factor; however, Factor 2 was exclusively composed of exposure to livestock such as hogs, dairy and poultry. Factor 3 included exposures from jobs on or off the farm such as wood dust, mineral dust, asbestos and spray paint. Crop exposure loaded exclusively in Factor 4 and included lifetime hours of exposure and maximum number of acres farmed in the participants' lifetime. The factors in the final model were interpretable and consistent with farming practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane Meza
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Fang Yu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Oyewale Shiyanbola
- Department of Population Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Debra J Romberger
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center and Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Healthcare System, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Tricia D LeVan
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center and Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Healthcare System, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, 985910 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5910, USA. Tel.: +1 402 559 3985. Fax: +1 402 559 4878. E-mail:
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge and beliefs of 72 Latino farmworkers in North Carolina about the threat of health effects of pesticides, including cancer. It sought to explore relationships between threat perceptions and pesticide protective behaviors observed in the field. METHODS/RESULTS Utilizing stepwise multiple regression, the authors found that years worked in agriculture in the United States was associated with decreased use of protective clothing. CONCLUSION Pesticide protective behaviors in the field may be improved by utilizing moderately experienced farmworkers (<10 years) as lay advisors to reinforce training.
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Affiliation(s)
- AnnMarie Lee Walton
- School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Catherine LePrevost
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bob Wong
- College of Nursing, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Laura Linnan
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Kathi Mooney
- College of Nursing, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Ferreiro A, Álvarez-Estévez G, Cerdas-Calderón M, Cruz-Trujillo Z, Mena E, Reyes M, Sandoval-Diaz M, Sánchez-Polo V, Valdés R, Ordúnez P. Confirmed clinical case of chronic kidney disease of nontraditional causes in agricultural communities in Central America: a case definition for surveillance. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2016; 40:301-308. [PMID: 28076578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last 20 years, many reports have described an excess of cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the Pacific coastal area of Central America, mainly affecting male farmworkers and signaling a serious public health problem. Most of these cases are not associated with traditional risk factors for CKD, such as aging, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension. This CKD of nontraditional causes (CKDnT) might be linked to environmental and/or occupational exposure or working conditions, limited access to health services, and poverty. In response to a resolution approved by the Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in 2013, PAHO, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Latin American Society of Nephrology and Hypertension (SLANH) organized a consultation process in order to expand knowledge on the epidemic of CKDnT and to develop appropriate surveillance instruments. The Clinical Working Group from SLANH was put in charge of finding a consensus definition of a confirmed clinical case of CKDnT. The resulting definition establishes mandatory criteria and exclusion criteria necessary for classifying a case of CKDnT. The definition includes a combination of universally accepted definitions of CKD and the main clinical manifestations of CKDnT. Based on the best available evidence, the Clinical Working Group also formulated general recommendations about clinical management that apply to any patient with CKDnT. Adhering to the definition of a confirmed clinical case of CKDnT and implementing it appropriately is expected to be a powerful instrument for understanding the prevalence of the epidemic, evaluating the results of interventions, and promoting appropriate advocacy and planning efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Ferreiro
- Latin American Society of Nephrology and Hypertension (SLANH), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | | | | | - Elio Mena
- Society of Nephrology of Honduras, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | | | | | | | - Régulo Valdés
- Society of Nephrology of Panama, Panama City, Panama
| | - Pedro Ordúnez
- Pan American Health Organization, Washington D.C., United States of America
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Klepikov OV, Mamchik NP, Gabbasova NV, Kalashnikov YS. Influence of work conditions on health state of workers engaged into hothouse production. Med Tr Prom Ekol 2016:21-25. [PMID: 30351643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Findings are that major occupational risk factors of morbidity among hothouse female workers are unfavorable microclimate parameters: in hothouses for vegetables growing - high air temperature, high relateive humidity high air motion speed in summer; in hothouses for mushrooms growing - high humidity forced posture work. In occupational morbidity structure of hothouse female workers, the major place is occupied by acute respiratory viral infections, respiratory diseases (20.6%) and locomotory diseases (7.9%).
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Minamoto K, Harada K, Wei QJ, Wei CN, Omori S, Ueda A. Occupational Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Mioga (Zingiber Mioga Rosc.) in Greenhouse Cultivators. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2016; 20:31-4. [PMID: 17903354 DOI: 10.1177/03946320070200s207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mioga ( Zingiber mioga Rosc.) is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae), which is native to tropical Asia. In Japan, the young flower buds are used as a spice, and hand dermatitis suspected as being an allergy to mioga has been recognized in mioga greenhouse cultivators. To investigate the extent of the problems and the causes of dermatitis, 20 householders cultivating mioga in their greenhouses were asked to participate in a questionnaire study. Consecutive patch tests were performed on some subjects with dermatitis. Self-reported questionnaires were distributed to the main cultivator in each household who attended a lecture of mioga cultivation methods held at an agriculture cooperative association in the area. Some subjects who answered as presenting or having had hand dermatitis were patch tested for mioga (as is), four kinds of mioga extracts, and three kinds of natural rubber gloves. Results: 35 cultivators from 16 households answered the questionnaire. Eight of the 35 subjects (22.9%) answered that they had experienced hand dermatitis since they started mioga cultivation. Four of the 8 subjects were patch tested. Two of the 4 subjects showed allergic reactions to mioga (as is) and the extracts. The other two cases showed irritation to mioga (as is). The first two cases also showed allergic reactions to natural rubber gloves. To our knowledge, there is no previous report of allergic contact dermatitis from mioga.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Minamoto
- Department of Preventive and Environmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Japan.
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Hayashi S, Teranishi H, Shimooka Y, Yamada N. High Prevalence of Pollinosis Symptoms among the Farmers Cultivating Japanese Pears. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2016; 20:27-9. [PMID: 17903353 DOI: 10.1177/03946320070200s206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In a district of Japanese pear cultivators, a questionnaire survey and an IgE antibody survey were conducted on the pollinosis. A high prevalence of 36.3 % of the farmers complained of pollinosis symptoms. By the IgE antibody survey, the symptoms were found to be related to the airborne pollens in the orchard.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hayashi
- Department of Environmental Systems Engineering, Toyama Prefectural University, Toyama, Japan.
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Rakitskiy VN, Bereznyak IV. [Providing studies quality for pesticides risk evaluation in their use according to proper laboratory practice rules]. Med Tr Prom Ekol 2016:23-26. [PMID: 27265940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The article covers experience of proper laboratory practice in hygienic studies examining air and workers' skin for assessment of exposure levels of pesticides in natural conditions of agricultural production.
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Lipkina LI, Zavolokina NG, Mikheyeva EN. [Minimizing risk for health in workers engaged into preplanting treatment of planting material]. Med Tr Prom Ekol 2016:17-23. [PMID: 27265939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Application of modern technologies and pesticides for preplanting treatment of planting material guarantees minimal risk of hazardous influence on workers with strict compliance with technologic regulations (preparation and working solution consumption, normalized technique, etc) and safety requirements (usage of recommended individual protection means, timely cleansing of equipment, etc).
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Fedorova NE, Rakitskiy VN, Goryacheva L, Chistova A. [Biomonitoring in workers exposed to pesticides: development and application of method detecting imidacloprid in urine]. Med Tr Prom Ekol 2016:12-16. [PMID: 27265938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Imidacloprid is a relatively new insecticide in neonicotinoids chemical class with neuroactivity in insects, being one of the most widely used insecticides in the world. For biomonitoring in workers exposed to pesticides, the authors designed a method detecting low levels of Imidacloprid in urine of operators, based on tandem liquid mass-spectrometry with ionization source--electrostatic dispersion (positive ionization) in multi-reaction monitoring regime with subsidiary ion (mass/charge) 209 for quantitative assessment and ion 175.1 for confirmation onion ratio. The study incorporated diurnal urine, about 100 ml of average sample was frozen and kept at temperature -20C for analysis. Before extraction, the sample was unfrozen, an aliquot of 5 ml was selected, diluted with 5 ml of 0.1% formic acid. The substance was concentrated out of the urine samples via solid-phase extraction with application of cartridges based on octadecylsilane, eluition--1 ml of methanol. Lower limit of Imidacloprid detection in urine is 0.02 ng/ml, of the quantitative assessment--0.1 ng/ ml, linear range of concentrations measured 0.1-10 ng/ml. The method was tested for monitoring in workers exposed to Imidacloprid preparations in natural conditions of pesticides application in agriculture, with various processing technologies. Imidacloprid was identified in urine of two professional operators after work in seed treatment and the subsequent seeding at lower limit of detection (0.02 ng/ml) and 0.34 ng/ml.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Heat exposure is an important hazard for workers in manual occupations, including farmworkers. This analysis delineates the prevalence of heat illness among farmworkers, and the factors associated with heat illness. METHODS North Carolina Latino male farmworkers completed interviews in August, 2013. They reported on heat exposure and behaviors over the previous 3 months while working both outdoors and indoors. RESULTS A third (35.6%) of the participants reported heat illness while working outside, and 13.9% while working inside. Factors associated with heat illness while working outside included working in wet clothes and shoes, harvesting and topping tobacco, and spending after-work time in an extremely hot house. CONCLUSIONS Policy addressing heat illness is needed, as is more detailed research on occupational heat exposure that uses common measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Arcury
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Phillip Summers
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Jennifer W. Talton
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Haiying Chen
- Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Joanne C. Sandberg
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Chaya R. Spears Johnson
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sara A. Quandt
- Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Tobacco workers are exposed to several respiratory occupational sensitizers. METHODS A representative cross-sectional study was carried out on 2469 tobacco family farming growers. Gender-stratified multivariate analyses evaluated the association between wheezing and socio-demographic, behavioral, and occupational variables. RESULTS Wheezing prevalence was 11.0% with no difference between genders. Among men, age, smoking, strenuous work, pesticide use, contact with vegetable dust and dried tobacco dust, lifting sticks with tobacco leaves to the curing barns, and green tobacco sickness (GTS) were risk factors for wheezing. Among women, family history of asthma, tying hands of tobacco, strenuous work, contact with chemical disinfectants, and GTS were positively associated with wheezing. Harvesting lower tobacco leaves was a protective factor for the outcome in both genders. CONCLUSIONS Pesticides, dusts exposure, and GTS were risk factors for wheezing. The synergic effect of these factors needs to be better evaluated to improve prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Spada Fiori
- Social Medicine Department, Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
- Takemi Program in International Health, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa
- Social Medicine Department, Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | | | - Rodrigo Dalke Meucci
- Social Medicine Department, Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Iribarrem Miranda
- Social Medicine Department, Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - David C. Christiani
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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Perotin JM, Barbe C, Nguyen KL, Fontaine JF, Gabignon Y, Nardi J, Launois C, Lebargy F, Lavaud F, Deslee G. Work-related respiratory symptoms in Champagne vineyard workers. Eur Ann Allergy Clin Immunol 2015; 47:140-144. [PMID: 26356997] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vineyard workers (VW) are exposed to various respiratory allergens. The aims of the study were to determine the prevalence of work related respiratory symptoms (WRS) in Champagne VW in France and to analyze the relationships between symptoms, occupational exposure and sensitization profile. METHODS VW of Reims area were prospectively recruited between 2007 and 2010. Demographic and occupational characteristics were recorded. Respiratory symptoms were scored for each month of the past year. Results of respiratory functional tests and skin prick tests for common respiratory allergens, grape moulds and vine pollen were recorded. RESULTS 307 subjects were included. The prevalence of WRS was 11%. Compared to subjects with symptoms unrelated to work, subjects with WRS were more frequently sensitized to gramineae (34% vs 18%, p = 0.05), described ocular itching (74% vs 37%, p < 0.001) and seasonal symptoms (88% vs 69%, p = 0.03) mainly during lifting and trellising (57% vs 17%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION WRS are frequent in Champagne WV and are associated with a sensitization to gramineae and with activities performed close to vine in late spring.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-M Perotin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France. INSERM UMRS 903, University Hospital, 51100, 45 Rue Cognacq Jay, 51100 Reims, France. Phone: +33 32 67 87 614 Fax: +33 32 678 40 30 E-mail:
| | - C Barbe
- Clinical Research Unit, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France
| | - K L Nguyen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France
| | - J-F Fontaine
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France
| | - Y Gabignon
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Mutualité Sociale Agricole, 51100 Reims, France
| | - J Nardi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France
| | - C Launois
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France
| | - F Lebargy
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France
| | - F Lavaud
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France
| | - G Deslee
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France. INSERM UMRS 903, University Hospital, 51100 Reims, France
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Blair A, Hines C, Thomas K, Alavanja M, Beane Freeman L, Hoppin J, Kamel F, Lynch C, Lubin J, Silverman D, Whelan E, Zahm SH, Sandler DP. Investing in prospective cohorts for etiologic study of occupational exposures. Am J Ind Med 2015; 58:113-22. [PMID: 25603935 PMCID: PMC4516175 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Prospective cohorts have played a major role in understanding the contribution of diet, physical activity, medical conditions, and genes to the development of many diseases, but have not been widely used for occupational exposures. Studies in agriculture are an exception. We draw upon our experience using this design to study agricultural workers to identify conditions that might foster use of prospective cohorts to study other occupational settings. Prospective cohort studies are perceived by many as the strongest epidemiologic design. It allows updating of information on exposure and other factors, collection of biologic samples before disease diagnosis for biomarker studies, assessment of effect modification by genes, lifestyle, and other occupational exposures, and evaluation of a wide range of health outcomes. Increased use of prospective cohorts would be beneficial in identifying hazardous exposures in the workplace. Occupational epidemiologists should seek opportunities to initiate prospective cohorts to investigate high priority, occupational exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Blair
- Division of Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - C.J. Hines
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - K.W. Thomas
- National Exposure Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina
| | - M.C.R. Alavanja
- Division of Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - L.E. Beane Freeman
- Division of Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - J.A. Hoppin
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - F. Kamel
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, North Carolina
| | - C.F. Lynch
- College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - J.H. Lubin
- Division of Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - D.T. Silverman
- Division of Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - E. Whelan
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - S. H. Zahm
- Division of Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - D. P. Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, North Carolina
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite tobacco farming involving intensive manual labor, chronic low back pain (CLBP) prevalence and associated factors are unknown among this occupational group. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study conducted in southern Brazil. A random sample of tobacco farmers was interviewed. Socioeconomic and individual characteristics, occupational tasks, workloads, and comorbidities were investigated. Chronic low back pain prevalence was described in relation to independent variables, and associations were examined with Poisson regression. RESULTS Chronic low back pain prevalence was 8·4%. Increasing age, rearing two or more species of livestock (PR 1·65), exposure to tasks that require heavy physical exertion (PR 2·00), working in awkward postures (PR 1·36), green tobacco sickness (GTS) (PR 1·63), pesticide poisoning (PR 2·37), and minor psychiatric disorders (PR 2·55) were associated with CLBP. CONCLUSIONS This study found that CLBP is a relevant health problem among tobacco farmers and highlights understudied risk factors such as pesticide poisoning and GTS. Policies to minimize exposure to physiological and chemical workloads in tobacco planting to prevent CLBP are needed. Health professionals should be trained to diagnose and prevent acute low back pain episodes and thus prevent/minimize limitations and disabilities due to CLBP.
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Caselli U, Breschi C, Compagnonil R, De Filippo L, Gogliettino MA, Guerrera E, Mameli M, Mastrominico E, Mochi S, Sarto D. [160 activities analyzed by the risk of biomechanical overload on the upper limbs in small industry, handicrafts, services and agriculture]. G Ital Med Lav Ergon 2014; 36:344-346. [PMID: 25558731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
We analyzed 160 work activities in the sectors of small industries, handicrafts, services and agriculture to evaluate the risk of biomnechanical overload of the upper limbs with the OCRA Checklist. The aim was to provide a tool available for the risk assessment in activities generally underestimnated for this risk and typical of the Italian production. The information was provided in the form of cards containing easily accessible data, risk scenarios in different timing, along with some of the key prevention interventions that can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Caselli
- INAIL direzione Regionale Marche - Con.T.A.R.P., Ancona, Italy.
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Bethel JW, Harger R. Heat-related illness among Oregon farmworkers. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2014; 11:9273-85. [PMID: 25198688 PMCID: PMC4199019 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph110909273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Revised: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Farmworkers are particularly vulnerable to climate-sensitive health outcomes such as heat-related illness (HRI) given their tasks involve heavy exertion in an outdoor setting. The objectives of the study were to: (1) describe symptoms of HRI experienced by farmworkers and (2) explore factors associated with heat knowledge, level of concern regarding HRI, and comfort level taking breaks at work. Bilingual research staff conducted personal interviews of 100 farmworkers during July and August 2013. Data collected included demographics, work history and current work practices, trainings received, HRI symptoms experienced, health status, and health behaviors. Nearly 30% of participants reported experiencing ≥ 2 HRI symptoms during the previous work. Few participants had high level of heat knowledge (21.0%) and 15.6% of participants reported being "very concerned" about the health effects of working in hot conditions. Participants who were paid by the piece were more likely to have a high heat knowledge score and be "very concerned" about HRI but less likely to be "very comfortable" taking a break compared to workers paid by the hour than those who had not received HRI training. Results suggest several areas in which employers and agencies conducting outreach and education to the workers about HRI can change their practices including providing cooling measures and HRI training about risk factors for HRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W Bethel
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 139 Milam Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
| | - Renee Harger
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 139 Milam Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
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Solovăstru LG, Vâţă D, Stătescu L, Andrese E. Pachydermodactyly--role of local corticotherapy. Rev Med Chir Soc Med Nat Iasi 2014; 118:643-648. [PMID: 25341278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Pachydermodactyly is a rare skin disease, defined as a benign form of digital fibromatosis. It is clinically characterized by painless hypertrophy of the skin around the proximal interphalangeal joints of the fingers, more common in males. This rare condition can affect both hands and is often associated with mechanical injury of the skin. Although there is no specific therapy, cessation of mechanical trauma associated with topical corticosteroid therapy can lead to satisfactory results. We present 3 sporadic cases of classical pachydermodactyly, anatomopathologically confirmed by the presence hyperkeratosis and acanthosis, which responded favorably to topically applied corticosteroids under occlusive dressings.
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Gorry C. CKDu ravages the Salvadoran countryside. MEDICC Rev 2014; 16:5-8. [PMID: 24878643 DOI: 10.37757/mr2014.v16.n2.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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