[Occupational factors and physical activity among public school teachers: a prospective cohort study]. / Fatores ocupacionais e atividade física em professores da educação básica da rede pública: uma coorte prospectiva.

The association between self-reported changes in working conditions and the incidence of recommended levels of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among middle and high school teachers of the public school network was analyzed. It is a prospective cohort in which 298 teachers from the public middle and high school network in Londrina, State of Paraná, were monitored for 24 months. The incidence of recommended LTPA levels (≥150 minutes/week) was the study outcome. The analysis included adjusted Poisson regression models, using those who had the worst working conditions in the baseline, and remained unchanged in the follow-up, as a reference group. The incidence of recommended levels of LTPA was 23.2%, being higher among those who maintained a good balance between their personal and professional lives (RR=3.50; 95%CI=1.26-9.72), frequently became exhausted at work (RR=2.47; 95%CI=1.10-5.56), infrequently became exhausted at work (RR=2.42; 95%CI=1.09-5.36), rarely became exhausted at work (RR=2.78; 95%CI=1.30-5.95), rarely began to work too hard (RR=2.69; 95%CI=1.24-5.87) and those who rarely needed to work too much (RR=3.25; 95%CI=1.46-7.26). These results indicate the importance of improving working conditions in the promotion of AFTL.

Analisou-se a associação entre mudanças autorreferidas nas condições de trabalho e a incidência de níveis recomendados de atividade física no tempo livre (AFTL) em professores da educação básica da rede pública. Trata-se de uma coorte prospectiva em que 298 professores da educação básica da rede pública de Londrina, Paraná, foram seguidos por 24 meses. A incidência de níveis recomendados de AFTL (≥150 minutos/semana) foi o desfecho do estudo. A análise incluiu modelos de regressão de Poisson ajustados, sempre tendo como grupo referência aqueles que tinham a pior condição de trabalho na linha de base e assim permaneceram no seguimento. A incidência de níveis recomendados de AFTL foi de 23,2%, sendo maior naqueles que se mantiveram com bom equilíbrio entre vida pessoal e profissional (RR=3,50; IC95%=1,26-9,72), passaram a ficar frequentemente desgastados no trabalho (RR=2,47; IC95%=1,10-5,56), passaram a ficar raramente desgastados no trabalho (RR=2,42; IC95%=1,09-5,36), mantiveram-se raramente desgastados no trabalho (RR=2,78; IC95%=1,30-5,95), passaram a raramente trabalhar demais (RR=2,69; IC95%=1,24-5,87) e mantiveram-se raramente trabalhando demais (RR=3,25; IC=1,46-7,26). Estes resultados indicam a importância da melhoria das condições de trabalho na promoção da AFTL.

[Unhealthy eating habits and associated risk factors among truck drivers]. / Comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde e fatores associados entre motoristas de caminhão.

The scope of this article is to identify risk factors associated with unhealthy eating habits among truck drivers. It involved a cross-sectional study carried out with truck drivers individually interviewed at the Port of Paranaguá in the State of Paraná, Brazil. Information was obtained on the consumption of fruit, vegetables, fried salted food, sweetened beverages, and the removal of visible fat from red meat and of skin from chicken meat. Hierarchical Poisson regression models were applied to identify factors associated with unhealthy eating habits. Of those interviewed (n = 670), 53.1% had four or more unhealthy eating habits. This condition was associated with age less than 40 years (prevalence ratio, PR = 1.49; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.28-1.73), moderate, low or very low ability to exercise the profession (PR 1.28; 95% CI 1.08-1.52), not taking physical exercise in free time (PR = 1.66; 95%CI = 1.38- 2.00), overall self-reported eating habits as poor or very poor (RP = 1.25; IC95% = 1.05-1.49) and body mass index < 25 Kg/m2 (PR = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.05-1.43). More than half of the truck drivers revealed unhealthy eating habits, highlighting the need for strategies to rectify these habits.

O objetivo deste artigo é identificar fatores associados aos comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde entre motoristas de caminhão. Trata-se de um estudo transversal realizado com motoristas de caminhão entrevistados no Porto de Paranaguá. Foram obtidas informações sobre o consumo de frutas, verduras e legumes, salgados fritos, bebidas açucaradas industrializadas e doces, e retirada de gordura visível de carne vermelha e da pele de carne de frango. Modelos hierarquizados foram construídos para identificar fatores associados aos comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde. Dos entrevistados (n = 670), 53,1% apresentaram quatro ou mais comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde. Tal condição associou-se com idade inferior a 40 anos (RP = 1,49; IC95% = 1,28-1,73), capacidade para exercer a profissão referida como moderada/baixa/muito baixa (RP 1,28; IC 95% 1,08-1,52), não praticar atividade física no tempo livre (RP = 1,66; IC95% = 1,38-2,00), qualidade da alimentação referida como ruim/muito ruim (RP = 1,25; IC95% = 1,05-1,49) e índice de massa corporal (IMC) < 25 Kg/m2 (RP = 1,22; IC95% = 1,05-1,43). Mais da metade dos motoristas de caminhão apresentaram comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde, reforçando a necessidade de estratégias de incentivo à redução desses hábitos.

[Teachers on temporary employment contracts reveal more frequent consumption of pre-prepared food]. / Professores com vínculo temporário apresentam maior frequência de consumo de alimentos pré-preparados.

The scope of this article is to analyze the eating behavior of schoolteachers according to the type of employment contract. Interviews were conducted at 20 public state schools in Londrina, State of Paraná, between 2012 and 2013. Of the 978 teachers interviewed, 672 (68.7%) had permanent employment contracts and 306 (31.3%) were on temporary employment contracts. High frequencies of recommended eating behaviors - consumption of fruit, vegetables and/or vegetables and removing visible fat from red meat - were observed in teachers with a permanent employment contract. On the other hand, teachers with temporary employment contracts revealed a high frequency of non-recommended eating behaviors with consumption of pre-prepared foods and packaged drinks or sodas. It was highlighted that a high frequency of consumption of pre-prepared foods was statistically associated with the type of employment contract irrespective of sociodemographic, lifestyle and health status factors.

O artigo tem por objetivo analisar as condutas alimentares de professores segundo os vínculos de trabalho. As entrevistas foram realizadas em 20 escolas da rede estadual de Londrina entre 2012 e 2013. Dos 978 professores entrevistados, 672 (68,7%) tinham vínculo efetivo e 306 (31,3%) temporário. Altas frequências de condutas alimentares recomendadas - consumo de frutas, verduras e/ou legumes e retirada da gordura visível da carne vermelha - foram observadas em professores com vínculo efetivo. Em contrapartida, professores com vínculo temporário apresentaram altas frequências de condutas alimentares não recomendadas - consumo de alimentos pré-preparados e de bebidas industrializadas ou refrigerantes. Destaca-se que o consumo em alta frequência de alimentos pré-preparados esteve estatisticamente associado ao tipo de vínculo independentemente de fatores sociodemográficos, de estilo de vida e da condição de saúde.

Factors associated with glycemic control in people with diabetes mellitus. / Fatores associados ao controle glicêmico de pessoas com diabetes mellitus.

Investigate the factors associated with the glycemic control in people with diabetes mellitus (DM). Cross-sectional study with 746 people with type-2 DM of age 40 or older. The following variables were selected: socioeconomic, clinical data, lifestyle and the risk of developing foot ulcers. Data collection occurred through interviews, medical record analysis and clinical examination of the lower limbs. We used the Poisson multiple regression model to determine the crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) of the glycemic alteration. The alteration in the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) test was considered as a dependent variable in this study, which has been classified as high when the result was higher than 7%. The alteration in HbA1c was present in 68.9% of the participants and was more prevalent in individuals aged between 50 and 69 (PR = 1.38/IC95% = 1.09-1.75), who were taking insulin (PR = 1.35/IC95% = 1.24-1.47), obese (PR = 1.14/IC95% = 1.03-1.25) and who had foot ulceration risk (PR = 1.14/IC95% = 1.09-1.28). Individuals aged between 50 and 69; the ones who used insulin; the obese ones; and those who had a risk of foot ulceration, presented higher prevalence rates of alteration in the glycated hemoglobin.

Investigar os fatores associados ao controle glicêmico de pessoas com diabetes mellitus (DM). Estudo transversal realizado com 746 pessoas com DM tipo 2 e 40 anos ou mais de idade. Elegeu-se as seguintes variáveis: socioeconômicas, dados clínicos, estilo de vida e o risco para o desenvolvimento de úlceras nos pés. A coleta dos dados ocorreu por meio de entrevista, análise do prontuário e exame clínico dos membros inferiores. Utilizou-se o modelo de regressão múltipla de Poisson para determinação das razões de prevalência (RP) brutas e ajustadas da alteração do exame de hemoglobina glicada (HbA1c), considerada como variável dependente desta pesquisa, sendo esta classificada como elevada quando o valor apresentava resultado superior a 7%. Identificou-se a elevação da HbA1c em 68,9% dos participantes e foi mais prevalente em indivíduos com idade entre 50 e 69 anos (RP = 1,38/IC95% = 1,09-1,75), os que faziam uso de insulina (RP = 1,35/IC95% = 1,24-1,47), obesos (RP = 1,14/IC95% = 1,03-1,25) e naqueles que possuíam risco de ulceração nos pés (RP = 1,14/IC95% = 1,09-1,28). Os indivíduos na faixa etária entre 50 e 69 anos, os que faziam uso de insulina, os obesos e os que possuíam risco de ulceração nos pés apresentaram maiores taxas de prevalência de alteração na hemoglobina glicada.

Job strain among teachers: associations with occupational factors according to social support. / Trabalho de alta exigência entre professores:associações com fatores ocupacionais conforme o apoio social.

This study aimed to ascertain the occupational factors associated with job strain among elementary school teachers and whether the associations varied according to social support. This was a cross-sectional study with 842 teachers from the state school system of a municipality in southern Brazil. Occupational information was obtained by means of interviews. Sociodemographic data and the Demand Control Support Questionnaire were included in a self-reported questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was performed with the calculation of odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. The following were associated with job strain: > 40 working hours/week, having suffered violence at school, negative perceptions about the work-personal life balance, remuneration and number of students in the classroom. A stratified analysis revealed that workload and negative perceptions about the number of students per class were significant only in the lower social support group. Job strain is associated with specific teaching conditions, and social support can provide a moderating effect on some of these associations.

Objetivou-se verificar fatores ocupacionais associados ao trabalho de alta exigência entre professores da educação básica e se as associações variavam conforme o apoio social. Estudo transversal com 842 professores da rede estadual de ensino de um município do Sul do Brasil. Informações ocupacionais foram obtidas por meio de entrevistas. Dados sociodemográficos e o Demand Control Support Questionnaire faziam parte de um questionário autorrespondido. Realizou-se análise de regressão logística com cálculo das razões de odds e intervalos de confiança de 95%. Associaram-se ao trabalho de alta exigência a carga horária > 40 horas/semana, ter sofrido violência na escola e percepções negativas quanto ao equilíbrio entre a vida profissional e pessoal, remuneração e quantidade de alunos em sala de aula. Após análise estratificada, carga horária e percepção negativa quanto à quantidade de alunos por sala foram significativas apenas no grupo de menor apoio social. Trabalho de alta exigência está associado a condições específicas de trabalho docente e o apoio social pode atuar como moderador de efeito em algumas dessas associações.

Physical violence against schoolteachers: an analysis using structural equation models. / Violência física contra professores no espaço escolar: análise por modelos de equações estruturais.

This study aimed to identify associations between sociodemographic, workplace, and school environmental factors and the occurrence of physical violence against teachers at school. This was a cross-sectional study of teachers that had been working for at least a year in elementary or middle schools in the state school system in Londrina, Paraná State, Brazil. A convenience sample was taken of the 20 schools with the most teachers in the city of Londrina. Data were obtained through interviews and self-completed questionnaires in 2012 and 2013. Physical violence was defined as reports of attempted or actual physical aggression using cold steel weapons or firearms in the 12 months prior to the study. Structural equation models were used for the data analysis. Of the 937 teachers eligible for the study, 789 (84.2%) were interviewed. The physical violence victimization rate in schoolteachers was 8.4%. Work conditions (number of schools where the teachers worked and type of employment contract) showed a direct effect on physical violence (p = 0.032), as did having experienced previous situations of violence in the school (p = 0.059). Age (up to 40 years) was indirectly related to physical violence, correlating with worse work conditions. The results highlight the importance of improving teachers' work conditions and implementing measures to prevent violence both in schools and in society as a whole.

Adolescents' physical activity is associated with previous and current physical activity practice by their parents.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether parents' current and previous physical activity practice is associated with adolescents' physical activity. METHODS: The sample was composed of 1231 adolescents (14-17 years), and 1202 mothers and 871 fathers were interviewed. Weight and height of the adolescents were measured. Self-reported parents' weight and height were obtained. The current and previous physical activity levels (Baecke's questionnaire) of parents (during childhood and adolescence) and adolescents' physical activity levels were obtained using a questionnaire. The magnitude of the associations between parent and adolescent physical activity levels was determined by binary logistic regression (adjusted by sex, age, and socioeconomic level of adolescents and education level of parents). RESULTS: The current physical activity practice by parents was associated with adolescents' physical activity (p<0.001). The physical activities reported by parents in their childhood and adolescence were also associated with higher physical activity levels among adolescents. Adolescents whose parents were both physically active in the past and present were six times (OR=6.67 [CI=1.94-22.79]) more likely to be physically active compared to adolescents with no parents who were physically active in the past. CONCLUSIONS: The current and previous physical activities of parents were associated with higher levels of physical activity in adolescents, even after controlling for confounding factors.

[Salivary flow and psychoactive drug consumption in elderly people]. / Fluxo salivar e uso de drogas psicoativas em idosos.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the association between low saliva flow rates and the use of psychoactive drugs among the elderly. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 267 elderly people from 60 to 74 years of age who lived in a borough of the city of Londrina, Paraná State, Brazil. Individuals with high functional dependence or restricted to bed were excluded. Saliva flow rate was the dependent variable with values under the first tercile being considered as low flow rates (less than 0.44 ml/min). The continuous use of psychoactive drugs (antidepressant, antiepileptic, sedative, antipsychotic, hypnotic or sedative-hypnotic drugs) was the independent variable. Multivariate analysis was performed taking into account gender, age and smoking status. RESULTS: The majority of the elderly were women (80.5%), with a mean age of 66.5 years. Use of psychoactive drugs was observed among 31 elderly (11.6%). Mean saliva flow rate was 0.76 ml/min, lower among users of psychoactive drugs (0.67 ml/min). In the multivariate analysis, use of psychoactive drugs was associated with low saliva flow rates (<0.44 ml/min), independent of gender, age or smoking. CONCLUSION: Results show that there is an association between use of psychoactive drugs and low saliva flow rates in this group of independent and non-institutionalized elderly. These conclusions stress the need of a rational use of these drugs, particularly among the elderly.

Insufficient free-time physical activity and occupational factors in Brazilian public school teachers.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if perceived occupational factors are associated with insufficient free-time physical activity in Brazilian public school teachers. METHODS: The relationship between insufficient physical activity (< 150 minutes/week) and variables related to work was analyzed in 978 elementary and high school teachers calculating the prevalence ratio (PR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) in Poisson regression models, adjusted for sociodemographic and health variables. RESULTS: The prevalence of insufficient physical activity was 71.9%, and this condition was associated independently with the perception of bad or regular balance between personal and professional life (PR = 1.09; 95%CI 1.01-1.18), perception that standing time affects the work (PR = 1.16; 95%CI 1.01-1.34), low or very low perception of current ability for the physical requirements of work (PR = 1.21; 95%CI 1.08-1.35), and temporary employment contract (PR = 1.13; 95%CI 1.03-1.25). The teaching of physical education was associated with lower prevalence of insufficient physical activity (PR = 0.78; 95%CI 0.64-0.95). CONCLUSIONS: The perception of adverse working conditions is associated with increased prevalence of insufficient physical activity in teachers and should be considered for the promotion of physical activity in this population. OBJETIVO: Analisar se fatores ocupacionais percebidos estão associados à atividade física insuficiente no tempo livre em professores de escolas públicas. MÉTODOS: A relação entre atividade física insuficiente (< 150 minutos/semana) e variáveis relacionadas ao trabalho foi analisada em 978 professores do ensino fundamental e médio mediante o cálculo da razão de prevalência (RP) e intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%) em modelos de regressão de Poisson, ajustados por variáveis sociodemográficas e de saúde. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de atividade física insuficiente foi de 71,9%, e essa condição associou-se de maneira independente com percepção de equilíbrio entre vida pessoal e profissional ruim ou regular (RP = 1,09; IC95% 1,01-1,18), percepção de que o tempo de permanência em pé afeta o trabalho (RP = 1,16; IC95% 1,01-1,34), percepção de capacidade atual para as exigências físicas do trabalho baixa ou muito baixa (RP = 1,21; IC95% 1,08-1,35) e contrato de trabalho temporário (RP = 1,13; IC95% 1,03-1,25). Ministrar disciplina de educação física associou-se com menor prevalência de atividade física insuficiente (RP = 0,78; IC95% 0,64-0,95). CONCLUSÕES: A percepção de condições de trabalho negativas associa-se à maior prevalência de atividade física insuficiente em professores e devem ser consideradas para a promoção de atividade física nessa população.

Fatores ocupacionais e atividade física em professores da educação básica da rede pública: uma coorte prospectiva / Occupational factors and physical activity among public school teachers: a prospective cohort study

Resumo Analisou-se a associação entre mudanças autorreferidas nas condições de trabalho e a incidência de níveis recomendados de atividade física no tempo livre (AFTL) em professores da educação básica da rede pública. Trata-se de uma coorte prospectiva em que 298 professores da educação básica da rede pública de Londrina, Paraná, foram seguidos por 24 meses. A incidência de níveis recomendados de AFTL (≥150 minutos/semana) foi o desfecho do estudo. A análise incluiu modelos de regressão de Poisson ajustados, sempre tendo como grupo referência aqueles que tinham a pior condição de trabalho na linha de base e assim permaneceram no seguimento. A incidência de níveis recomendados de AFTL foi de 23,2%, sendo maior naqueles que se mantiveram com bom equilíbrio entre vida pessoal e profissional (RR=3,50; IC95%=1,26-9,72), passaram a ficar frequentemente desgastados no trabalho (RR=2,47; IC95%=1,10-5,56), passaram a ficar raramente desgastados no trabalho (RR=2,42; IC95%=1,09-5,36), mantiveram-se raramente desgastados no trabalho (RR=2,78; IC95%=1,30-5,95), passaram a raramente trabalhar demais (RR=2,69; IC95%=1,24-5,87) e mantiveram-se raramente trabalhando demais (RR=3,25; IC=1,46-7,26). Estes resultados indicam a importância da melhoria das condições de trabalho na promoção da AFTL.

Abstract The association between self-reported changes in working conditions and the incidence of recommended levels of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among middle and high school teachers of the public school network was analyzed. It is a prospective cohort in which 298 teachers from the public middle and high school network in Londrina, State of Paraná, were monitored for 24 months. The incidence of recommended LTPA levels (≥150 minutes/week) was the study outcome. The analysis included adjusted Poisson regression models, using those who had the worst working conditions in the baseline, and remained unchanged in the follow-up, as a reference group. The incidence of recommended levels of LTPA was 23.2%, being higher among those who maintained a good balance between their personal and professional lives (RR=3.50; 95%CI=1.26-9.72), frequently became exhausted at work (RR=2.47; 95%CI=1.10-5.56), infrequently became exhausted at work (RR=2.42; 95%CI=1.09-5.36), rarely became exhausted at work (RR=2.78; 95%CI=1.30-5.95), rarely began to work too hard (RR=2.69; 95%CI=1.24-5.87) and those who rarely needed to work too much (RR=3.25; 95%CI=1.46-7.26). These results indicate the importance of improving working conditions in the promotion of AFTL.

Frequency and factors associated with falls in adults aged 55 years or more.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to analyze the frequency and factors associated with falls in adults aged 55 years or more. METHODS: This is a study inserted into another population-based study with representative sample of persons aged 40 years or more of the urban area in a medium-sized municipality of the State of Paraná, Brazil, in 2011. That study obtained demographic and socioeconomic data and characteristics related to life habits, health conditions, and functional capacity (n = 1,180). In 2012, we selected all persons aged 55 years or more (n = 501). We have estimated grip strength and the occurrence of a fall since the last interview in 80.6% of the adults. The crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) have been calculated by logistic regression according to a hierarchical model. RESULTS: The rate of fall was 24.3%. After adjustments, we could observe higher chances of falls among women (OR = 3.10; 95%CI 1.79-5.38), among persons aged 65 years or more (OR = 2.39; 95%CI 1.45-3.95), with poor sleep quality (OR = 1.78; 95%CI 1.08-2.93), and with low grip strength (OR = 2.31; 95%CI 1.34-3.97). CONCLUSIONS: Poor sleep quality and low muscle strength can be indicators of increased risk of falls and need assessments and interventions aimed at preventing them. OBJETIVO: Analisar a frequência e fatores associados à ocorrência de quedas em adultos de 55 anos ou mais. MÉTODOS: Estudo inserido em outro de base populacional com amostra representativa de pessoas com 40 anos ou mais da área urbana de município de médio porte do Paraná em 2011. Foram obtidos dados demográficos e socioeconômicos, características referentes aos hábitos de vida, às condições de saúde e à capacidade funcional (n = 1.180). Em 2012, selecionaram-se todas as pessoas com idade igual ou superior a 55 anos (n = 501). Foram estimadas a força de preensão palmar e a ocorrência de queda desde a última entrevista em 80,6% delas. Foram calculadas odds ratios (OR) brutas e ajustadas por regressão logística segundo modelo hierarquizado. RESULTADOS: A frequência de queda foi de 24,3%. Após ajustes, observaram-se chances maiores de queda entre mulheres (OR = 3,10; IC95% 1,79-5,38), entre pessoas com idade igual ou superior a 65 anos (OR = 2,39; IC95% 1,45-3,95), com qualidade do sono ruim (OR = 1,78; IC95% 1,08-2,93) e com baixa força de preensão palmar (OR = 2,31; IC95% 1,34-3,97). CONCLUSÕES: Qualidade ruim do sono e a baixa força muscular podem ser indicadores de maior risco de quedas e merecem avaliações e intervenções visando à prevenção desse agravo.

Physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout: A systematic review of prospective studies.

Burnout is a syndrome that results from chronic stress at work, with several consequences to workers' well-being and health. This systematic review aimed to summarize the evidence of the physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout in prospective studies. The PubMed, Science Direct, PsycInfo, SciELO, LILACS and Web of Science databases were searched without language or date restrictions. The Transparent Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Prospective studies that analyzed burnout as the exposure condition were included. Among the 993 articles initially identified, 61 fulfilled the inclusion criteria, and 36 were analyzed because they met three criteria that must be followed in prospective studies. Burnout was a significant predictor of the following physical consequences: hypercholesterolemia, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, hospitalization due to cardiovascular disorder, musculoskeletal pain, changes in pain experiences, prolonged fatigue, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, severe injuries and mortality below the age of 45 years. The psychological effects were insomnia, depressive symptoms, use of psychotropic and antidepressant medications, hospitalization for mental disorders and psychological ill-health symptoms. Job dissatisfaction, absenteeism, new disability pension, job demands, job resources and presenteeism were identified as professional outcomes. Conflicting findings were observed. In conclusion, several prospective and high-quality studies showed physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout. The individual and social impacts of burnout highlight the need for preventive interventions and early identification of this health condition in the work environment.

[Living conditions and infant mortality in the State of Paraná, Brazil, 1997/2001]. / Condições de vida e mortalidade infantil no Estado do Paraná, Brasil, 1997/2001.

This objective of this paper was to verify the relations between the living and infrastructure conditions of municipalities in the State of Paraná, Brazil, and infant mortality rate and its components. An ecological study was carried out having the 399 municipalities of the State being classified into five clusters of living conditions. Infant, neonatal and postneonatal rates were calculated for the period 1997/2001. The mean infant, neonatal and postneonatal mortality rates in the State were, respectively, 19.3, 12.0 and 7.3 per 1,000 live births. Postneonatal mortality rates ranged from 8.7 (cluster of worst living conditions) to 6.3 per 1,000 live births (in the cluster classified as having the best living conditions). Regarding the neonatal component, clusters classified as holding the best and the worst living conditions presented the lowest values: 11.8 and 11.4 per 1,000 live births, respectively. We conclude that the postneonatal component still adequately discriminate living conditions in the State of Paraná. However, there is a need of complementary studies that aim to clarify the causes of similar neonatal mortality rates observed in the richest and in the poorest cluster of municipalities.

Professional experience and traffic accidents/near-miss accidents among truck drivers.

AIM: To investigate the relationship between the time working as a truck driver and the report of involvement in traffic accidents or near-miss accidents. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed with truck drivers transporting products from the Brazilian grain harvest to the Port of Paranaguá, Paraná, Brazil. The drivers were interviewed regarding sociodemographic characteristics, working conditions, behavior in traffic and involvement in accidents or near-miss accidents in the previous 12 months. Subsequently, the participants answered a self-applied questionnaire on substance use. The time of professional experience as drivers was categorized in tertiles. Statistical analyses were performed through the construction of models adjusted by multinomial regression to assess the relationship between the length of experience as a truck driver and the involvement in accidents or near-miss accidents. RESULTS: This study included 665 male drivers with an average age of 42.2 (±11.1) years. Among them, 7.2% and 41.7% of the drivers reported involvement in accidents and near-miss accidents, respectively. In fully adjusted analysis, the 3rd tertile of professional experience (>22years) was shown to be inversely associated with involvement in accidents (odds ratio [OR] 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.16-0.52) and near-miss accidents (OR 0.17; 95% CI 0.05-0.53). The 2nd tertile of professional experience (11-22 years) was inversely associated with involvement in accidents (OR 0.63; 95% CI 0.40-0.98). CONCLUSIONS: An evident relationship was observed between longer professional experience and a reduction in reporting involvement in accidents and near-miss accidents, regardless of age, substance use, working conditions and behavior in traffic.

Continued use of drugs and working conditions among truck drivers. / Uso contínuo de medicamentos e condições de trabalho entre motoristas de caminhão.

Few studies have been conducted on truck drivers with regard to their health problems, especially their drug consumption profile. This study aimed to determine the continuous use of drugs and to identify use-related professional characteristics among this category. A cross-sectional study was carried out with truck drivers parked at the sorting yard of the, Port of Paranaguá, Paraná. An interview to obtain socioeconomic data, data on health problems, working conditions and continued use of medication was performed. Of the drivers evaluated (n = 665), 21.1% reported a continuous use of some medication, mainly captopril (10.7%), metformin (10.3%), omeprazole (6.2%) and simvastatin (6.2%). Drivers with 16 or more years of professional experience (Prevalence Ratio [PR] 1.67; Confidence Interval [CI] 95% 1.11-2.51), truck owners (PR 1.38; CI 95% 1.03-1.86) and without formal labor contract (PR 1.49; CI 95% 1.11-2.00) had a higher prevalence of continuous use of medication. We noted that some working conditions play an important role in the continuous use of drugs by truck drivers.

[Frequency of self-reported vocal problems and associated occupational factors in primary schoolteachers in Londrina, Paraná State, Brazil]. / Frequência de problemas vocais autorreferidos e fatores ocupacionais associados em professores da educação básica de Londrina, Paraná, Brasil.

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of self-reported vocal problems among primary schoolteachers and to identify associated occupational factors, using a cross-sectional design and face-to-face interviews with 967 teachers in 20 public schools in Londrina, Paraná State, Brazil. Prevalence of self-reported vocal problems was 25.7%. Adjusted analyses showed associations with characteristics of the employment relationship (workweek ≥ 40 hours and poor perception of salaries and health benefits), characteristics of the work environment (number of students per class and exposure to chalk dust and microorganisms), psychological factors (low job satisfaction, limited opportunities to express opinions, worse relationship with superiors, and poor balance between professional and personal life), and violence (insults and bullying). Vocal disorders affected one in four primary schoolteachers and were associated with various characteristics of the teaching profession (both structural and work-related).

[Characteristics of traffic accidents and victims treated through a pre-hospital service in a city in southern Brazil, 1997/2000]. / Características dos acidentes de trânsito e das vítimas atendidas em serviço pré-hospitalar em cidade do Sul do Brasil, 1997/2000.

Traffic accidents and the resulting injury and trauma constitute an important social and public health problem. The objective of this study was to analyze the characteristics of such accidents and the victims treated by the only pre-hospital service -- the Integrated Trauma and Emergency Aid Service (SIATE) -- in the city of Londrina, Paraná State, southern Brazil, from 1997 to 2000. All victims (14,474) registered in the SIATE database were studied. The majority (> 70.0%) were male and aged 10 to 39 years. Motorcyclists were the most frequent victims (> 40.0%), and accidents occurred most frequently in December, on weekends (especially Saturdays), and at night. These results are consistent with those of other studies showing the need to implement preventive measures targeting young males, especially motorcyclists.

[Epidemiology of accidents and violence against children in a city of Southern Brazil]. / Epidemiologia dos acidentes e violências entre menores de 15 anos em município da região sul do Brasil.

This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of accidents and violence against children under 15 years old who lived in Londrina, a city in the South of Brazil, in 2001. Morbidity data were collected from general hospitals records and mortality data were obtained from the Municipal Mortality Information Center. A total of 8,854 children were studied, which corresponded to an incidence rate of 74.8/1,000 children. Admission and fatality rates were 4.2% and 0.2%, respectively. The incidence rate was higher among two-year olds (109/1,000) and male victims prevailed (60.7%). Other causes of injuries were the main subtype of external cause (61.0%), followed by events of undetermined intention (30.6%) and by transport-related injuries (7.5%). The head was the most affected body part (34.9%) and superficial injuries were the most frequent kind of trauma (32.4%). The results contribute to the planning of injury control and prevention actions.

Professores com vínculo temporário apresentam maior frequência de consumo de alimentos pré-preparados / Teachers on temporary employment contracts reveal more frequent consumption of pre-prepared food

Resumo O artigo tem por objetivo analisar as condutas alimentares de professores segundo os vínculos de trabalho. As entrevistas foram realizadas em 20 escolas da rede estadual de Londrina entre 2012 e 2013. Dos 978 professores entrevistados, 672 (68,7%) tinham vínculo efetivo e 306 (31,3%) temporário. Altas frequências de condutas alimentares recomendadas - consumo de frutas, verduras e/ou legumes e retirada da gordura visível da carne vermelha - foram observadas em professores com vínculo efetivo. Em contrapartida, professores com vínculo temporário apresentaram altas frequências de condutas alimentares não recomendadas - consumo de alimentos pré-preparados e de bebidas industrializadas ou refrigerantes. Destaca-se que o consumo em alta frequência de alimentos pré-preparados esteve estatisticamente associado ao tipo de vínculo independentemente de fatores sociodemográficos, de estilo de vida e da condição de saúde.

Abstract The scope of this article is to analyze the eating behavior of schoolteachers according to the type of employment contract. Interviews were conducted at 20 public state schools in Londrina, State of Paraná, between 2012 and 2013. Of the 978 teachers interviewed, 672 (68.7%) had permanent employment contracts and 306 (31.3%) were on temporary employment contracts. High frequencies of recommended eating behaviors - consumption of fruit, vegetables and/or vegetables and removing visible fat from red meat - were observed in teachers with a permanent employment contract. On the other hand, teachers with temporary employment contracts revealed a high frequency of non-recommended eating behaviors with consumption of pre-prepared foods and packaged drinks or sodas. It was highlighted that a high frequency of consumption of pre-prepared foods was statistically associated with the type of employment contract irrespective of sociodemographic, lifestyle and health status factors.

Comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde e fatores associados entre motoristas de caminhão / Unhealthy eating habits and associated risk factors among truck drivers

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é identificar fatores associados aos comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde entre motoristas de caminhão. Trata-se de um estudo transversal realizado com motoristas de caminhão entrevistados no Porto de Paranaguá. Foram obtidas informações sobre o consumo de frutas, verduras e legumes, salgados fritos, bebidas açucaradas industrializadas e doces, e retirada de gordura visível de carne vermelha e da pele de carne de frango. Modelos hierarquizados foram construídos para identificar fatores associados aos comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde. Dos entrevistados (n = 670), 53,1% apresentaram quatro ou mais comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde. Tal condição associou-se com idade inferior a 40 anos (RP = 1,49; IC95% = 1,28-1,73), capacidade para exercer a profissão referida como moderada/baixa/muito baixa (RP 1,28; IC 95% 1,08-1,52), não praticar atividade física no tempo livre (RP = 1,66; IC95% = 1,38-2,00), qualidade da alimentação referida como ruim/muito ruim (RP = 1,25; IC95% = 1,05-1,49) e índice de massa corporal (IMC) < 25 Kg/m2 (RP = 1,22; IC95% = 1,05-1,43). Mais da metade dos motoristas de caminhão apresentaram comportamentos alimentares de risco à saúde, reforçando a necessidade de estratégias de incentivo à redução desses hábitos.

Abstract The scope of this article is to identify risk factors associated with unhealthy eating habits among truck drivers. It involved a cross-sectional study carried out with truck drivers individually interviewed at the Port of Paranaguá in the State of Paraná, Brazil. Information was obtained on the consumption of fruit, vegetables, fried salted food, sweetened beverages, and the removal of visible fat from red meat and of skin from chicken meat. Hierarchical Poisson regression models were applied to identify factors associated with unhealthy eating habits. Of those interviewed (n = 670), 53.1% had four or more unhealthy eating habits. This condition was associated with age less than 40 years (prevalence ratio, PR = 1.49; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.28-1.73), moderate, low or very low ability to exercise the profession (PR 1.28; 95% CI 1.08-1.52), not taking physical exercise in free time (PR = 1.66; 95%CI = 1.38- 2.00), overall self-reported eating habits as poor or very poor (RP = 1.25; IC95% = 1.05-1.49) and body mass index < 25 Kg/m2 (PR = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.05-1.43). More than half of the truck drivers revealed unhealthy eating habits, highlighting the need for strategies to rectify these habits.