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Noise-induced Hearing Loss: Continuous versus Impact/impulse Noise. Int J Prev Med 2024; 15:2. [PMID: 38487700 PMCID: PMC10935570 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_368_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Impact/impulse and continuous noise are two main causes of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in workplaces. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of impulse/impact noise and continuous noise on hearing status. Methods In this study, 259 workers referred to the occupational medicine clinic of Shahid Rahnemoun hospital, Yazd, Iran, entered the study and were divided into two groups: with exposure to impact/impulse noise and with exposure to continuous noise. Hearing thresholds were measured and compared between the two groups by pure-tone audiometry (PTA). The frequency of hearing loss and audiometric notch according to the results of PTA was compared between the two groups. Data were analyzed by SPSS (ver. 16) using Student's t-test, Chi-square test, and Mann-Whitney U test. Results Hearing thresholds were significantly higher at all frequencies in the impact noise group. The hearing threshold at 6000 Hz was higher than other frequencies in both groups. The frequency of hearing loss at high frequencies was higher in the impact group. The frequency of audiometric notch was not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusions The results of this study showed that hearing loss after exposure to impact/impulse noise is probably more frequent and more severe than exposure to continuous noise, but the pattern of hearing loss is similar in both types of noise exposure.
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Association between different patterns of shift work and liver function tests: A cross-sectional analysis of Shahedieh PERSIAN cohort data, Iran, 2020. Work 2023; 76:125-133. [PMID: 36744354 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies suggest that shift work may cause liver dysfunction. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the relationship between different patterns of shift work and elevated level of liver enzymes. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, 1910 workers aged 35 to 70 years were selected with simple random sampling from 9978 participants of the recruitment phase of Shahedieh PERSIAN cohort study. Level of serum liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT) and ALT/AST ratio was compared between shift workers and non-shift workers, and among employees working in different patterns of shift work. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version 21.0) using Student's T test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test, Kruskal Wallis test, and logistic regression. RESULTS Among 1347 males (71%) and 563 females (29%) with a mean age of 40.4±7.4 years, 469 were shift workers. Fixed evening type shift was the most common (30.3%) and fixed night-shift was the least common (0.9%) type of shift work. The mean blood levels of liver enzymes was not significantly different between shift workers and non-shift workers. In comparison between different patterns of shift work, the mean serum level of GGT was significantly higher in individuals with slow rotating shifts than those with fixed evening shifts, rapid rotating, split and fixed 24 hour shifts (p≤0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors only elevated AST was significantly higher in shift workers. CONCLUSION There was only a significant association between shift work and elevated AST, and no relationship was found with ALT, ALP, GGT, and ALT/AST ratio.
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Spirometric Parameters in Waterpipe Smokers, Cigarette Smokers, and Non-smokers of Shahedieh Cohort Study. ADDICTION & HEALTH 2023; 15:17-22. [PMID: 37560079 PMCID: PMC10408739 DOI: 10.34172/ahj.2023.1350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Different kinds of smoking tobacco may affect pulmonary function and reduce some spirometric parameters. This study aimed to assess the relationship between smoking cigarettes and waterpipe and spirometric parameters. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study on 1543 middle-aged individuals, as a sub-study of the Shahedieh cohort study in Yazd. The participants were randomly selected from the Shahedieh cohort population and were divided into 6 groups according to their smoking habits: non-smokers (n=455), cigarette smokers (n=139), waterpipe smokers (n=287), ex-cigarette smokers (n=131), concurrent waterpipe and cigarette smokers (n=121), and cigarette or waterpipe passive smokers (n=410). Spirometry was performed on all participants and spirometric parameters were compared between different groups. The data were analyzed by SPSS (version 20) using Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U tests. FINDINGS FEV1 %, FEV1/FVC, and PEF25-75% were significantly lower in cigarette smokers, compared to waterpipe smokers and non-smokers. The measures were not significantly lower in waterpipe smokers in comparison to non-smokers. The frequency of obstructive pattern and small airway diseases was significantly higher in cigarette smokers compared to waterpipe smokers and non-smokers. CONCLUSION The results of this study showed that in the middle-aged population, spirometric parameters related to airway obstruction (FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and FEF25-75%) were significantly lower in cigarette smokers than in non-smokers and waterpipe smokers, but these parameters were not significantly different between waterpipe smokers and non-smokers.
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The Effect of Water-Pipe and Cigarette Smoking on Exhaled Nitric Oxide. Int J Prev Med 2022; 13:79. [PMID: 35706853 PMCID: PMC9188898 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_546_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Fractional exhaled nitric oxide can be used as a biomarker of some respiratory diseases. AIMS This study was conducted to compare exhaled nitric oxide in cigarette and water-pipe smokers with nonsmokers. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on 549 adult subjects as a sub-study of Shahedieh cohort in Yazd. Participants were divided into 5 groups according to their smoking habits: non-smokers (n = 202), cigarette smokers (n = 121), water-pipe smokers (n = 129), cigarette ex-smokers (n = 58), water-pipe and cigarette smokers (n = 39). The smokers were also categorized into heavy and light smokers. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide was compared between the groups. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED The data were analyzed by SPSS (ver. 20) using Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U tests. RESULTS Fractional exhaled NO was lower in all smokers than nonsmokers, but cigarette smokers showed the least level of NO than other groups. Fractional exhaled NO was not significantly lower in water-pipe smokers than nonsmokers. CONCLUSIONS Cigarette smoking significantly affect fractional exhaled NO, but water-pipe smoking did not significantly affect exhaled NO level.
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The Comparison of The Efficacy of Photobiomodulation and Ultrasound in the Treatment of Chronic Non-specific Neck Pain: A Randomized Single-Blind Controlled Trial. J Lasers Med Sci 2021; 12:e20. [PMID: 34733743 DOI: 10.34172/jlms.2021.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic neck pain is a common complaint among office workers. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of a high-intensity laser and physiotherapy in office workers who were diagnosed with chronic non-specific neck pain. Methods: This study was a single-blind randomized controlled trial, with parallel allocation. Sixty office workers with chronic neck pain, aged between 25 and 55 years, participated in the study. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: photobiomodulation (by a high-level laser) and physiotherapy. Visual analogue scale (VAS), Neck Disability Index (NDI), Neck Pain and Disability Scale (NPDS) and Bournemouth Questionnaire (BQN) were completed on three occasions (before, immediately and 2 weeks after the intervention) to assess and compare the efficacy of the high-intensity laser and physiotherapy in neck pain. Data were analyzed by SPSS 23 software using the chi-square test, Student's t test, multivariate tests, and Fisher's exact test. Results: The mean age of the participants was 37.53±9.52 and 41.16±7.85 years in physiotherapy and laser therapy respectively. The VAS score and NDI scores decreased after both kinds of interventions, and the effect of photobiomodulation was significantly higher than physiotherapy (P < 0.001). Both treatment modalities significantly affect different aspects of chronic neck pain assessed by NDPS and BQN questionnaires and the effect of photobiomodulation was more prominent than physiotherapy. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that photobiomodulation and physiotherapy can reduce chronic neck pain and its different aspects and the effect of laser therapy was significantly higher than physiotherapy.
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Investigating the effective annual dose of radiation angiography department of Afshar Hospital in Yazd and providing radiation protection strategies to better manage the dose received by staff. Occup Med (Lond) 2020. [DOI: 10.18502/tkj.v12i1.3657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Due to the increasing use of angiography procedures and the higher risk of deterministic and stochastic effects for radiation workers of these sections than other radiological procedures, radiation safety is very important among angiography staff. Therefore, this study aimed to obtain the effective dose of angiography staff, compare them with the standard dose limit, and finally outline the strategies for occupational dose reduction in angiography.
Methods: In this study, the report of film dosimetry of angiography staff was studied and the effective periodic and annual doses of 34 radiographs were reported from the year 2015 to 2018. The relationship between effective dose and body mass index, work experience, gender and age of staff was also evaluated.
Results: The results showed that the average effective dose of the physicians, nurses and radiographers in 2 months period were 0.2 mSv and their average annual effective dose were 1.6, 1.2 and 1.2, respectively. In addition, there were no significant relationship between effective dose and work experience, age, sex and BMI of the radiation workers.
Conclusion: The effective dose of radiation in this study is less than the annual dose.. Low effective doses do not make their radiation protection less important because this reduction can be due to radiation protection by personnel in this ward. Therefore, as far as possible, radiation protection measures should be taken to reduce the radiation exposure of catheterization lab staff. In these radiologists thyroid protection, eyes, gonads, and the organs that are usually outside the lead apron is of great importance.
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Study of effectiveness and reliability of education on ergonomic risk factors and musculoskeletal complaints in patient-carrier personnel of Shahid Bahonar Hospital of Kerman. Occup Med (Lond) 2019. [DOI: 10.18502/tkj.v10i4.1732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Lack of awareness of the principles and rules of ergonomics, inappropriate postures and frequent displacement of patients and loads can cause musculoskeletal disorders in medical personnel. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of in-person training and social network education on the ergonomic risk factors and musculoskeletal of patient carrier personnel in the Shahid Bahonar Hospital of Kerman.
Method: This study is an applied and quasi-experimental study. That was performed on 60 participants in Shahid Bahonar Hospital kerman. The participants were randomly divided into two groups of 30. The first group was trained via in-person training method combined with practical work and questionings and the second group was trained via social networks. The data were collected through a self-made questionnaire measuring awareness, Nordic questionnaire along with the scale of the investment rate and the numerical checklist patient transfer assessment index (PTAI) was collected before training for one week, one month and six months after training. For analyzing the data, SPSS software version 24 was used.
Results: Low back pain is more prevalent among sick carriers than other musculoskeletal disorders. There was a significant difference between the knowledge and PTAI scores in both methods before and six months after training (P <0.05). Also, comparing neck (P = 0.014), shoulder (P = 0.006), waist (P = 0.00), knee (P = 0.006), and foot (P = 0.016) complaints in training method There was a significant difference before and six months after training. There was no significant difference in musculoskeletal complaints at the end of six months in education via social media.
Conclusion: According to the results, it seems that both in-person and via social media training had an impact on reducing ergonomic risk factors and musculoskeletal complaints. And the effect of in-person training was significantly greater than that of via social media training. In addition, the reliability of the training effect was significant only In-person training
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Shift Work Effects and Pregnancy Outcome: A Historical Cohort Study. J Family Reprod Health 2018; 12:84-88. [PMID: 30820211 PMCID: PMC6391306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Employed mothers face considerable amount of hazards. Especially shift work can impact pregnant women by affecting some hormones. This study was conducted to assess the adverse effects of shift work on pregnancy outcomes. Materials and methods: This historical cohort study was conducted in 2017 in order to assess the effect of shift work on pregnancy outcomes. The subjects were consecutively selected from pregnant women, which referred to Al Zahra and Shahid Beheshti hospitals, Isfahan, Iran for their pregnancy care. The effect of shift work on pregnancy and labor complications (low birth weight, small for gestational age, pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, intra-uterine growth retardation, spontaneous abortion, preterm delivery, excessive bleeding during labor, and type of labor) was assessed. The effect was adjusted for occupation and number of children as well. Data were analyzed by SPSS (ver. 17) usingT-test, chi-Square test and logistic regression analysis. Results: Totally, 429 pregnant women entered the study. There was not a statistically significant difference between morning and shift workers regarding age. It was found that shift work probably increases the incidence of small for gestational age, pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, intra-uterine growth retardation, spontaneous abortion, and preterm delivery, but after adjustment for job and number of children the effect was observed only on preterm delivery. Conclusion: Working in a rapid cycling schedule of shift work may cause an increase in the incidence of preterm delivery in pregnant mothers.
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Anthropometric hand dimensions in a population of Iranian male workers in 2012. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2016; 22:125-30. [DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2015.1112108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Anthropometry of Iranian Guidance School Students with Different Ethnicities: A Comparative Study. SCIENTIFICA 2015; 2015:893489. [PMID: 26635993 PMCID: PMC4618330 DOI: 10.1155/2015/893489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective. We measured some anthropometric dimensions of Iranian guidance school students selected from different ethnicities. Background. Anthropometric dimensions are used for design of equipment, furniture, and clothing. Furniture with inappropriate design not fulfilling the users' anthropometric dimensions may have a negative effect on health. Method. A total of 7400 Iranian guidance school students aged 12-14 years entered the study and their static anthropometric dimensions were measured. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and key percentiles were calculated. All dimensions were compared among different ethnicities and different genders. Results. This study showed significant differences in a set of 22 anthropometric dimensions regarding gender, age, and ethnicity. Conclusion. According to the results of this study, difference between genders and among different ethnicities should be taken into account by designers and manufacturers of guidance school furniture. Application. This study has prepared a data bank of anthropometric dimensions of 12-14-year-old students which can be used as basic information to find appropriate dimensions of school furniture.
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Static anthropometric dimensions in a population of Iranian high school students: considering ethnic differences. HUMAN FACTORS 2015; 57:447-460. [PMID: 25875434 DOI: 10.1177/0018720814549579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anthropometric dimensions of the end users should be measured in order to create a basis for manufacturing of different products. This study was designed to measure some static anthropometric dimensions in Iranian high school students, considering ethnic differences. METHOD Nineteen static anthropometric dimensions of high school students were measured and compared among different Iranian ethnicities (Fars, Turk, Kurd, Lor, Baluch, and Arab) and different genders. RESULTS In this study, 9,476 subjects (4,703 boys and 4,773 girls) ages 15 to 18 years in six ethnicities were assessed. The difference among ethnicities was statistically significant for all dimensions (p values < .001 for each dimension). CONCLUSION This study showed statistically significant differences in 19 static anthropometric dimensions among high school students regarding gender, age, and ethnicity.
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Occupational stress and cardiovascular risk factors in high-ranking government officials and office workers. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2014; 16:e11747. [PMID: 25389469 PMCID: PMC4221995 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.11747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2013] [Revised: 08/08/2013] [Accepted: 04/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular diseases are among the most important sources of mortality and morbidity, and have a high disease burden. There are some major well-known risk factors, which contribute to the development of these diseases. Occupational stress is caused due to imbalance between job demands and individual's ability, and it has been implicated as an etiology for cardiovascular diseases. OBJECTIVES This study was conducted to evaluate the cardiovascular risk factors and different dimensions of occupational stress in high-ranking government officials, comparing an age and sex-matched group of office workers with them. PATIENTS AND METHODS We invited 90 high-ranking officials who managed the main governmental offices in a city, and 90 age and sex-matched office workers. The subjects were required to fill the occupational role questionnaire (Osipow) which evaluated their personal and medical history as well as occupational stress. Then, we performed physical examination and laboratory tests to check for cardiovascular risk factors. Finally, the frequency of cardiovascular risk factors and occupational stress of two groups were compared. RESULTS High-ranking officials in our study had less work experience in their current jobs and smoked fewer pack-years of cigarette, but they had higher waist and hip circumference, higher triglyceride level, more stress from role overload and responsibility, and higher total stress score. Our group of office workers had more occupational stress because of role ambiguity and insufficiency, but their overall job stress was less than officials. CONCLUSIONS The officials have higher scores in some dimensions of occupational stress and higher overall stress score. Some cardiovascular risk factors were also more frequent in managers.
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Ergonomic intervention, workplace exercises and musculoskeletal complaints: a comparative study. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2014; 28:69. [PMID: 25405134 PMCID: PMC4219902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most prevalent occupational disorders in different jobs such as office work. Some interventions such as ergonomic modifications and workplace exercises are introduced as the methods for alleviating these disorders. In this study we compared the effect of ergonomic modifications and workplace exercises on musculoskeletal pain and discomfort in a group of office workers. METHODS In an interventional study on office workers, the effect of two interventions was compared. Ergonomic modification consisted of correcting the arrangement of workstation and changing some equipment; workplace exercises included stretching exercises focusing on neck, shoulders, low back, and hand and wrist. Musculoskeletal complaints were assessed and compared before and after 1 month interventions. RESULTS The frequency of musculoskeletal complaints was high before the study. Both interventions significantly reduced complaints in a similar manner except for low back pain which was reduced in exercise group more than the other group. CONCLUSION In this study we found a beneficial short-term effect for both ergonomic modifications and stretching work-place exercises on reducing musculoskeletal pain in office workers.
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Evaluation of the return to work and its duration after myocardial infarction. ARYA ATHEROSCLEROSIS 2014; 10:137-40. [PMID: 25161683 PMCID: PMC4144381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The evaluation of the ability for return to work among patients after myocardial infarction (MI) is subject to controversy. Understanding various factors, which may affect return to work process, will help in promoting effective communication between physicians and patients. Return to work is dependent on such factors as patients' functional capacity, MI expansion, cardiac muscle function, some psychiatric variables, job satisfaction, economic status, and age. In this study, we aimed to assess the frequency of return to work after first MI attack, and factors affecting it. METHODS This was a follow-up study performed in Yazd, Iran from September 2007 until September 2010 on 200 patients suffering from their first MI attack. Patients were assessed 6 months and 1-year after MI regarding their cardiac function. Job satisfaction was evaluated by Direct Support Professional job satisfaction questionnaire. RESULTS Seventy-seven percent of MI patients returned to work after 1-year. Mean time for return to work was 46.00 ± 4.12 days. Sixty percent of patients returned to work during the first 50 days after MI and 50% of them during 40 days after MI. The most common reason for not returning to work was patient's decision. CONCLUSION This study showed that a considerable numbers of patients returned to work after 1-year. The only factors which affected the rate of return to work were left ventricular function after MI and job satisfaction.
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Conventional Audiometry, Extended High-Frequency Audiometry, and DPOAE for Early Diagnosis of NIHL. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2014; 16:e9628. [PMID: 24719719 PMCID: PMC3964437 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.9628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2012] [Revised: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 05/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background: Noise most frequently affects hearing system, as it may typically cause a bilateral, progressive sensorineural hearing loss at high frequencies. Objectives: This study was designed to compare three different methods to evaluate noise-induced hearing loss (conventional audiometry, high-frequency audiometry, and distortion product otoacoustic emission). Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Data was analyzed by SPSS (ver. 19) using chi square, T test and repeated measures analysis. Study samples were workers from tile and ceramic industry. Results: We found that conventional audiometry, extended high-frequency audiometry, low-tone distortion product otoacoustic emission and high-tone distortion product otoacoustic emission had abnormal findings in 29 %, 69 %, 22 %, and 52 % of participants. Most frequently affected frequencies were 4000 and 6000Hz in conventional audiometry, and 14000 and 16000 in extended high-frequency audiometry. Conclusions: Extended high-frequency audiometry was the most sensitive test for detection of hearing loss in workers exposed to hazardous noise compared with conventional audiometry and distortion product otoacoustic.
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Effect of workplace noise on hearing ability in tile and ceramic industry workers in Iran: a 2-year follow-up study. ScientificWorldJournal 2013; 2013:923731. [PMID: 24453922 PMCID: PMC3885267 DOI: 10.1155/2013/923731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Noise as a common physical hazard may lead to noise-induced hearing loss, an irreversible but preventable disorder. Annual audiometric evaluations help detect changes in hearing status before clinically significant hearing loss develops. This study was designed to track hearing threshold changes during 2-year follow-up among tile and ceramic workers. METHODS This follow-up study was conducted on 555 workers (totally 1110 ears). Subjects were divided into four groups according to the level of noise exposure. Hearing threshold in conventional audiometric frequencies was measured and standard threshold shift was calculated for each ear. RESULTS Hearing threshold was increased during 2 years of follow-up. Increased hearing threshold was most frequently observed at 4000, 6000, and 3000 Hz. Standard threshold shift was observed in 13 (2.34%), 49 (8.83%), 22 (3.96%), and 63 (11.35%) subjects in the first and second years of follow-up in the right and left ears, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This study has documented a high incidence of noise-induced hearing loss in tile and ceramic workers that would put stress on the importance of using hearing protection devices.
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Prevalence of Cardiovascular Risk Factors among Tile and Ceramic Workers in Yazd, Iran. ISRN PREVENTIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:921860. [PMID: 24967143 PMCID: PMC4045460 DOI: 10.5402/2013/921860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. Cardiovascular disorders (CVDs) are among the most important diseases in the world and determination of their risk factors is essential for primary and secondary prevention. This study aimed to evaluate these risk factors in workers of tile and ceramic industry, a main industry in Yazd. Materials and Methods. In a cross-sectional study, 1075 tile and ceramic workers were selected by simple sampling method. BMI, blood pressure, FBS, and lipid profile were measured and compared to international standards. Results. 731 individuals (68%) had at least one risk factor, and 52%, 12%, 3%, and 0.7% had one, two, three, and four risk factors, respectively. The most common risk factor was abnormal BMI (49.6%); low HDL (48.4%) and high TG (14.1%) were in the second and third orders. Conclusion. This study showed a relatively high prevalence for CVD risk factors among tile and ceramic workers. Low HDL, high TG, and overweight were the most frequent risk factors in this population.
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Fitness-for-work assessment of train drivers of Yazd railway, central Iran. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE 2013; 4:157-163. [PMID: 23860546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND National Transport Commission (NTC) classifies train driving as a high-level safety critical job. OBJECTIVE To assess fitness-for-work among train drivers in Yazd, central Iran. METHODS We evaluated 152 train drivers for their fitness for duty. The results were then compared with NTC guidelines. RESULTS 63.8% of subjects were fit for duty, 34.2% fit subject to review, and 2.0% were temporarily unfit. The most common reason for fit subject to review was a Kessler score >19. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 48.0% and 15.0%, respectively. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 69.7%, diabetes 10.0%, impaired fasting glucose 36.0%, and hypertension was 19.0%, respectively. CONCLUSION Most studied train drivers can continue their work safely. The prevalence of some risk factors such as overweight and dyslipidemia were high among train drivers. This warrants further evaluation and establishment of control programs.
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A 2-year follow-up of spirometric parameters in workers of a tile and ceramic industry, Yazd, southeastern Iran. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE 2013; 4:73-79. [PMID: 23567532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/26/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory diseases cause a considerable amount of morbidity and mortality in the world. Pulmonary function tests are important measures for the diagnosis and management of respiratory disorders. Workers in tile and ceramic industry are exposed to high amounts of respiratory pollutants. OBJECTIVE To identify the changes in spirometric parameters in a 2-year period among tile and ceramic workers in Yazd and compare it with a control group. METHODS The study was conducted in 5 tile and ceramic factories selected by cluster sampling between 2009 and 2011 in Yazd, southeastern Iran. Demographic data and spirometric parameters of participants were recorded. RESULTS Spirometric parameters were significantly reduced during the 2 years. The largest decrease was observed in FVC (≈500 mL) in ball-mill and grinding after 2 years. Decrease in all spirometric parameters was significantly higher in industrial workers than office workers. CONCLUSION Respiratory exposure in tile and ceramic industry can significantly affect pulmonary function tests.
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An epidemiologic study on anthropometric dimensions of 7-11-year-old Iranian children: considering ethnic differences. ERGONOMICS 2012; 56:90-102. [PMID: 23126498 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2012.728250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Anthropometric data can be used to identify the physical dimensions of equipment, furniture, clothing and workstations. The use of poorly designed furniture that fails to fulfil the users' anthropometric dimensions, has a negative impact on human health. In this study, we measured some anthropometric dimensions of Iranian children from different ethnicities. A total of 12,731 Iranian primary school children aged 7-11 years were included in the study and their static anthropometric dimensions were measured. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation and key percentiles were calculated. All dimensions were compared among different ethnicities and different genders. This study showed significant differences in a set of 22 anthropometric dimensions with regard to gender, age and ethnicity. Turk boys and Arab girls were larger than their contemporaries in different ages. According to the results of this study, difference between genders and among different ethnicities should be taken into account by designers and manufacturers of school furniture. PRACTITIONER SUMMARY In this study, we measured 22 static anthropometric dimensions of 12,731 Iranian primary school children aged 7-11 years from different ethnicities. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation and key percentiles were measured for each dimension. This study showed significant differences in a set of 22 anthropometric dimensions in different genders, ages and ethnicities.
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Aberrant Behaviors and Road Accidents among Iranian Truck Drivers, 2010. Health Promot Perspect 2011; 1:130-9. [PMID: 24688909 DOI: 10.5681/hpp.2011.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 10/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Road accidents are a social phenomenon in different communities that its infra-structural dimensions of which as well as technologic failures such as road quality, and tech-nical faults of automobiles, need to be assessed in detail. Iran has the first order in the world for deadly road accidents. This study was designed to assess the association between aberrant behaviors of truck drivers and the incidence of road accidents in Yazd, center of Iran, in 2010. METHODS This cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study was conducted on 300 truck drivers in Yazd. We used 3 questionnaires, including one for demographic data, Driver Behavior Questionnaire (DBQ), and one for drivers' self-evaluation of the of their driving. RESULTS Five types of the behavior had the highest frequency: Misjudge speed of oncoming vehicle when overtaking.; Deliberately disregard the speed limits late at night or very early in the morning.; Ignore 'give way' signs, and narrowly avoid colliding with traffic having right of way.; Stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle on a two-lane highway, you are driven by frustration to try to overtake in risky circumstances.; Drive with only 'half-an-eye' on the road while looking at a map, changing a cassette or radio channel, etc. The more the driver's driv-ing was influenced by emotional and mental states the more deliberate violations and slips. CONCLUSION Among truck drivers, safety has not developed sufficiently, and because of the dangers of road accidents both for the drivers and other people and its economic losses, the importance of the presenting some solutions is completely obvious.
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An analysis of anthropometric data on Iranian primary school children. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2010; 39:78-86. [PMID: 23113041 PMCID: PMC3481697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2010] [Accepted: 11/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anthropometric data can be used to identify the physical dimensions of equipment, furniture, etc. The use of furniture that fails to fulfill the anthropometric data of its users has a negative impact on human health. Specific anthropometric dimensions are necessary to design school furniture. Anthropometric data have been measured in many communities especially among schoolchildren. There are different ethnic groups with probably different anthropometric data in Iran, and anthropometric data can change by time, so gathering data about anthropometric dimensions is important. This study was designed to obtain anthropometric dimensions of Iranian children (Fars ethnicity) aged 7-11 years. METHODS In a cross-sectional study in Yazd, Iran, descriptive statistics as well as key percentiles for 17 static anthropometric data of primary school students (1015 males and 1015 females), were measured and compared between boys and girls. RESULTS The age of the students was between 6 and 11 years. Mean weight was between 21.56±5.33 kg and 36.63±9.45 kg in boys and between 20.79±3.48 kg and 35.88±9.40 kg in girls. Mean height was between 1187/02±53.98 mm and 1420.83± 69.39 mm in boys and between 1173.90±51.01mm and 1421.27±70.82 mm in girls. There was also some difference in other anthropometric data between two genders. CONCLUSION Results of this study showed some differences in anthropometric data with other studies. We also observed significant gender differences in some dimensions as well.
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A comparison between Venables standardized respiratory questionnaire and pre-shift spirometry in screening of occupational asthma in a steel industry. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE 2010; 1:191-197. [PMID: 23022808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational asthma (OA) is the most common occupational lung disease in developed countries. One of the causative agents is metal fume that may be encountered in steel industries. Screening for the OA is mainly performed by questionnaire but in our country spirometry is used more commonly. OBJECTIVE To compare the diagnostic value of the Venables standardized respiratory questionnaire and pre-shift spirometry as screening tools for OA. METHODS In a cross-sectional study, we investigated 450 workers of a steel industry by the Venables standardized questionnaire. We also performed a pre-shift spirometry as the screening spirometry and a post-shift spirometry. A person with 10% drop in post-shift FEV1 compared with the pre-shift value was considered as asthmatic (our gold-standard). The results of the questionnaire and the pre-shift spirometry were then examined against the gold-standard test results. For each test, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated. RESULTS The overall prevalence of OA among our studied workers was 3.9% (95% CI: 1.9%-5.9%). The highest rate was seen in those working in catering (25%) and welding (10%) units. Pre-shift spirometry and the questionnaire had low sensitivity (42.9% and 28.6%, respectively) and positive predictive values (16.7% and 3.6%, respectively); moderate specificity (92.4% and 71.6%, respectively) and high negative predictive values (97.9% and 96.5%, respectively). CONCLUSION Taking into account the ease of use of the questionnaire, it seems that it is more feasible to use questionnaire as the primary screening tool for the diagnosis of OA.
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