Hidden risk factors and the mediating role of sleep in work-related musculoskeletal discomforts.

OBJECTIVE: Musculoskeletal discomforts (MSDs) are prevalent occupational health issues that are associated with a wide range of risk factors. This study aimed to investigate some of the occupational hidden risk factors and the mediating role of sleep in work-related musculoskeletal discomforts. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study, the role of job stress and shift work as two hidden risk factors and sleep problems as the mediator in work-related musculoskeletal discomforts was investigated in 302 healthcare workers using the path analysis models. For this aim, healthcare workers' Occupational Stress and musculoskeletal discomforts were evaluated using the Health and Safety Executive questionnaire and Cornell questionnaire, respectively. Moreover, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) were used to examine the sleep characteristics of participants. Shift work and job stress as predictor variables and sleep characteristics as mediating variables were analyzed. RESULTS: The results showed that the path coefficients of job stress on indexes of quality sleep and insomnia severity were significant. Also, the path coefficient of shift work on quality sleep index was significant. In return, the path coefficients of shift work on the insomnia severity index were not significant. Additionally, there was a mutually significant association between indexes of quality sleep and the severity of insomnia and musculoskeletal discomforts. The direct effect coefficient of job stress on MSDs was significant, whereas the direct effect coefficient of shift work on MSDs was insignificant. This means that shift work alone does not significantly impact these disorders. CONCLUSION: It would seem that shift work and job stress as two occupational hidden risk factors can mediate sleep indexes and indirectly play a critical role in the incidence of musculoskeletal discomforts. Moreover, sleep disorders and musculoskeletal discomforts are mutually related and have a bidirectional relationship.

Risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a large cohort of Ontario, Canada workers.

Although several occupational exposures have been linked to the risk of COPD; limited data exists on sex-specific differences. This study aimed to identify at-risk occupations and sex differences for COPD risk. Cases were identified in a large surveillance system established through the linkage of former compensation claimants' data (non-COPD claims) to physician visits, ambulatory care data, and hospital inpatient data (1983-2020). Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for occupation groups (occupation at time of claim), stratified by sex. HRs were indirectly adjusted for cigarette smoking using another population dataset. A total of 29,445 male and 14,693 female incident cases of COPD were identified. Increased risks were observed in both sexes for construction (HRmale 1.15, 95% CI 1.12-1.19; HRfemale 1.54, 95% CI 1.29-1.83) transport/equipment operating (HRmale 1.32, 95% CI 1.28-1.37; HRfemale 1.53, 95% CI 1.40-1.68) farming (HRmale 1.23, 95% CI 1.15-1.32; HRfemale 1.19, 95% CI 1.04-1.37) and janitors/cleaners (HRmale 1.31, 95% CI 1.24-1.37; HRfemale 1.40, 95% CI 1.31-1.49). Increased risks were observed for females employed as chefs and cooks (HR 1.44, 95% CI 1.31-1.58), bartenders (HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.05-1.81), and those working in food/beverage preparation (HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.24-1.45) among other occupations. This study demonstrates elevated risk of COPD among both male and female workers potentially exposed to vapours, gases, dusts, and fumes, highlighting the need for occupational surveillance of COPD.

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors affecting emergency medical services professionals in Jordan: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: Emergency medical services (EMSs) personnel are at high risk for developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, no studies have yet investigated the prevalence and effect of these disorders on the Jordanian EMS personnel. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs among Jordanian EMS personnel and its associated factors. DESIGN: This study used a cross-sectional design. Participants were asked to complete a self-administrated and validated questionnaire to measure the WMSDs, including a demographic survey and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Descriptive and multivariable regression analyses were used. SETTING: The Jordanian Civil Defence stations in the main cities of Jordan. PARTICIPANTS: The sample consisted of 435 EMS workers which were obtained across the country of Jordan. A total of 79.0% of the participants were male, with a mean age of 27.9 (±4.3 SD) years. RESULTS: The pain in the lower back (308, 70.8%) and neck (252, 57.9%) were the most reported in the last 12 months. Furthermore, about half of the participants reported having pain in their upper back (234, 53.8%), knee (227, 52.2%) and shoulder (226, 52.0%) pain in the last 12 months. Overall, WMSDs in at least one body part were significantly associated with age, experience, being a male, increased body mass index and lower educational level. CONCLUSIONS: There is a high prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints among EMS personnel. Multiple variables may be incorporated into a national prevention campaign and professional development programme to educate EMS personnel on avoiding WMSDs.

Assessment of the prevalence and associated factors of lower back pain (LBP) among three different professionals in Bangladesh: Findings from a face-to-face survey.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors of lower back pain (LBP) among farmers, rickshaw pullers and office workers in Bangladesh, while also investigating potential contributors within these occupational groups. DESIGN: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of LBP, associated factors and management procedures among farmers, rickshaw pullers and office workers in Bangladesh through face-to-face interviews. SETTING: The study was conducted in different parts of the Bogura district in Bangladesh. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 396 participants were included in the final analysis, all the participants were men and adult in age. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire based on previous research. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant associations. RESULTS: The prevalence of LBP was found to be 42.7% among the participants. Farmers and rickshaw pullers had approximately four-times and three-times higher odds of experiencing LBP compared with office workers. Other significant factors associated with LBP included living in a nuclear family, having a normal body weight, lacking professional training, having a chronic disease, having a family history of LBP and experiencing numbness in the legs or feet. The majority of respondents sought medical attention and took medication for their LBP. CONCLUSION: The study underscores occupational differences in LBP prevalence, emphasising the necessity for tailored interventions and occupational health policies. Identifying specific risk factors and management practices in these professions can aid in developing effective prevention strategies and enhancing healthcare services.

Burnout syndrome and its correlation with musculoskeletal disorders among physiotherapists in Saudi: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: There is a significant impact of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) on individuals of all ages, professions, and fields from various countries worldwide, leading to a negative impact on quality of life and overall health outcomes. The study was conducted to investigate the association between Burnout syndrome (BS) and MSDs among physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out. Physiotherapists of either gender and with no known co-morbidities and who were not suffering from recent injuries and accidents were included in the study. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory was used to determine the level of burnout. Musculoskeletal disorders were analyzed using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire (NMQ). The chi-square test was used to observe the association between two categorical variables and a p-value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 133 participants were recruited and it was observed that 70 (53%) participants had low burnout levels (BoL). It was revealed that 65 (49%) had trouble in the neck and visited a physician clinic, 47 (35%) had trouble in the lower back during the last 12 months, 60 (45%) had trouble in the upper back during the last 12 months that prevented the normal activity and 13 (9.8%) participants had trouble in the shoulders during the last 7 days. History of chronic disease, education, practice setting, and smoking status with Burnout level was statistically significant. Trouble in the upper back, elbow, wrist/hands, hips/thighs, ankle/feet, and neck were also found to be significant. CONCLUSION: The outcomes revealed that a few demographic factors such as education, practice setting, smoking status, and chronic disease history were significantly associated with BS. Furthermore, it was observed that MSD had a significant impact on BoL.

[An epidemiological and evolutionary profile of occupational asthma of Tunisian workers]. / Profil épidémiologique et évolutif de l'asthme professionnel des travailleurs tunisiens.

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to identify the epidemiological and occupational characteristics of patients with occupational asthma (OA) and to assess their clinical evolution and occupational outcomes. METHODS: We carried out a descriptive epidemiological study over a period of five years (from 2012 to 2016) about the OA cases in the private sector reported in the Tunisian region of Zaghouan. RESULTS: All in all, 165 OA cases were reported during the study period, representing an annual incidence of 733.3 cases per 1,000,000 workers in the private sector. Our study population was composed predominantly (85.5%) of women, whose mean age was 41.5±6.8years. More than three quarters of the affected persons were working in the automobile industry, and most illnesses (77%) were attributable to isocyanates. The mean time to onset of the respiratory symptoms was longer for low molecular weight agents (13.6±3.1years) compared to high molecular weight agents (12.0±3.9years) (P=0.0006). The majority of OA cases (66.7%) lost their jobs. Job loss was significantly more frequent among asthmatic women and workers with OA due to isocyanates. Among the 62 cases of OA for whom risk factors were eliminated, 45 nonetheless remained symptomatic. CONCLUSION: Effective prevention strategies involving the various actors need to be implemented in work environments so as to reduce the frequency and the medico-legal repercussions of a disabling condition.

Prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Ethiopia: Evidence from a workplace cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are the leading cause of disability worldwide. Shopkeepers are prone to developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders, but they are largely overlooked in research and policy actions, particularly in developing countries. So far, there is a lack of data on the magnitude and factors influencing work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Ethiopia. Therefore, the current study aimed to explore the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Gondar City, Ethiopia. METHODS: A workplace-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2022, in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 625 shopkeepers. The data were collected using an interviewer-administered standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Analysis was made using Stata version 14. Factors associated with the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders were identified using the multivariable Poisson regression model. The adjusted prevalence ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p-value < 0.05 were applied to establish the significance of associations. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in the past 12 months was found to be 81.1% (N = 507). The most frequently affected body part was the lower back (46.6%), followed by the upper back (43.8%) and shoulder (35.4%). Being female (p = 0.043), being in the age group of ≥40 years (p = 0.028), being overweight (p = 0.035), experiencing job stress (p = 0.006) and prolonged sitting (p = 0.045) were significant factors for the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers. CONCLUSION: This study revealed that shopkeepers face an alarmingly high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Female, older, overweight, stressed and shopkeepers who sit in the same position for long periods of time were identified as particularly vulnerable groups. These findings call for the urgent development and implementation of preventive measures, including ergonomic adjustments, education and training programs, stress management techniques and the promotion of physical activity, to protect this vulnerable workforce from the debilitating effects of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and to ensure their long-term health and well-being.

[Association between work environment noise perception and cardiovascular diseases, depressive symptoms, and their comorbidity in occupational population].

Objective: To explore the association between occupational noise perception and cardiovascular disease (CVD), depression symptoms, as well as their comorbidity in occupational population and provide evidence for the prevention and control of physical and mental illnesses. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, based on baseline data in population in 28 prefectures in Sichuan Province and Guizhou Province, and 33 districts (counties) in Chongqing municipality from Southwest Occupational Population Cohort from China Railway Chengdu Group Co., Ltd. during October to December 2021. A questionnaire survey was conducted to collect information about noise perception, depressive symptoms, and the history of CVD. Latent profile analysis model was used to determine identify noise perception type, and multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between different occupational noise perception types and CVD, depression symptoms and their comorbidity. Results: A total of 30 509 participants were included, the mean age was (36.6±10.5) years, and men accounted for 82.0%. The direct perception of occupational noise, psychological effects and hearing/sleep impact of occupational noise increased the risk for CVD, depressive symptoms, and their comorbidity. By using latent profile analysis, occupational noise perception was classified into four levels: low, medium, high, and very high. As the level of noise perception increased, the association with CVD, depressive symptoms, and their comorbidity increased. In fact, very high level occupational noise perception were found to increase the risk for CVD, depressive symptoms, and their comorbidity by 2.14 (95%CI: 1.73-2.65) times, 8.80 (95%CI: 7.91-9.78) times, and 17.02 (95%CI: 12.78-22.66) times respectively compared with low-level occupational noise perception. Conclusions: Different types of occupational noise perception are associated with CVD and depression symptom, especially in the form of CVD complicated with depression symptom. Furthermore, the intensity of occupational noise in the work environment should be reduced to lower the risk for physical and mental health.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of musculoskeletal disorders among firefighters.

INTRODUCTION: Due to the nature of their job, firefighters face many ergonomic risk factors and are exposed to several musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the prevalence of MSDs among firefighters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted based on preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The literature search was conducted in the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, SID, ISC and Google Scholar without applying a time limitation until the end of July 2022. The random effects model was used for meta-analysis, and the I2 index was used to check heterogeneity among studies. The data were analyzed using STATA version 14 software. RESULTS: The primary literature searches in the databases identified 1,291 articles, 26 of which were entered the meta-analysis stage after screening, study selection, and quality assessment, including 36,342 firefighters. Based on the results of a meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of MSDs among firefighters was 46.39% (95% CI: 32.45-60.32, I2 = 99.7%, P < 0.001). The prevalence of MSDs was also investigated at neck (18.36%), low back (34.32%), shoulder (18.68%), hands (7.43%), upper back (10.15%), knee (19.97%) and foot (6.66%). CONCLUSION: Considering the relatively high prevalence of MSDs among firefighters and their higher exposition to specific job-related risk factors of MSDs compared to other professions, it is suggested to provide firefighters with appropriate training, implement ergonomic interventions, and regularly screen them to reduce MSDs.

[Analysis of clinical characteristics of 129 acute and chronic occupational brucellosis in HulunBuir City].

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and clinical data of acute and chronic occupational brucellosis patients in order to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of occupational brucellosis. Methods: In October 2022, a study was conducted on 129 patients diagnosed with occupational brucellosis by HulunBuir Center for Disease Control and Prevention from January 2016 to December 2021. The epidemiological characteristics, clinical features, and laboratory test results of patients in the acute and chronic phases were compared and analyzed using chi-square test and student's t test. Results: The acute phase patients included 38 men and 4 women with an average age of (36.6±8.4) years old; the chronic phase patients included 73 men and 14 women with an average age of (38.4±7.9) years old. There were no significant differences in gender and age between the two groups (P>0.05). The patients had a clear history of occupational exposure, and the proportion of veterinarians in acute stage (21 cases, 50.0%) was significantly higher than that in chronic stage (25 cases, 28.7%), the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The symptoms of fever and loss of appetite in acute phase of occupational brucellosis were significantly higher than those in chronic phase, and the symptoms of fatigue and joint muscle pain were significantly lower than those in chronic phase, with statistical significances (P<0.05). The increase of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and positive rate of blood culture in acute stage were significantly higher than those in chronic stage, with statistical significances (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Occupational brucellosis patients are predominantly middle-aged men, the acute phase is characterized by fever, loss of appetite, and increased inflammatory indicators and liver enzymes, while the chronic phase is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue and joint muscle pain. Brucellosis related occupational exposure population should seek medical treatment as soon as possible when the above symptoms occur, timely detection and treatment of occupational diseases.

[Analysis of symptoms and influencing factors of low back work-related musculoskeletal disorders among workers in a container manufacturing factory].

Objective: To investigate the occurrence of low back work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among workers in a container manufacturing factory, and to explore the influencing factors. Methods: In June 2022, 952 workers from a container factory were selected as the research objects by cluster random sampling. Through questionnaire survey, the incidence of low back WMSDs symptoms among workers in the past one year was collected, and the influencing factors of low back WMSDs were analyzed by logistic regression. Results: The incidence rate of low back WMSDs was 46.7% (445/952). The factors with higher exposure at work were frequent slight bending (77.0%, 733/952), frequent overtime (74.1%, 705/952), and the need to turn around while working (62.3%, 593/952). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age over 40 years old, smoking, drinking, often bending over slightly, sitting for a long time, maintaining a large bending posture for a long time, often working overtime, limited operating space, and there was always a need to complete conflicting things in the container manufacturing factory workers were the risks of increasing the low back WMSDs (OR=1.68, 1.96, 2.47, 1.49, 1.84, 2.11, 1.90, 1.82, 2.00, P<0.05). Standing at work, always friendly colleagues, and always supportive and helpful leaders were protective factors for low back WMSDs (OR=0.60, 0.32, 0.40, P<0.05) . Conclusion: The incidence of low back WMSDs symptoms in container manufacturing workers is high, and work-related factors such as frequent slight bending, long time holding large bending posture and limited operating space are the focus of ergonomic intervention in container manufacturing enterprises.

Occupational status and chronic respiratory diseases: a cross-sectional study based on the data of the Rafsanjan Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible connection between occupational status and chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) among the Iranian population. METHODS: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 9934 individuals aged 35-70 years enrolled in the Rafsanjan Cohort Study (RCS), a component of the Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in Iran (PERSIAN). Detailed questionnaires were used to collect information on various factors, such as occupation, sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, anthropometric measurements, physical activity, cigarette and hookah smoking, opium use, and alcohol consumption. The association between occupational class and CRD was evaluated using logistic regression models for rare events. RESULTS: In the present study, 4624 (46.55%) participants were male, and 5310 (53.45%) were female. The prevalence of CRD among all participants was 2.61%. Occupational activities were classified into two categories: In class I, the largest group was the homemaker and unemployment category (41.73%), followed by self-employment (34.39%), employment (13.03%), and retired individuals (10.84%). In class II, there were pistachio farmers (12.61%), copper miners (3.62%), and others in various occupations (83.76%). Subjects with CRD were significantly more likely to be homemakers, unemployed, elderly, female, less educated, and obese. There was no significant relationship between CRD and job type/occupational status after adjusting for some potential confounding variables. CONCLUSIONS: There was no significant relationship between CRD and job type/occupational status. However, longitudinal studies are needed to assess the impact of job type/occupational status on the risk of CRD.

[Ergonomics and organization of remote work - health aspect and recommendations for home office organization]. / Ergonomia i organizacja pracy zdalnej ­ aspekt zdrowotny i zalecenia dotyczace organizacji biura domowego.

Analyses of the economic activity of the Polish population indicate that in 2023, about 7% of all employees performed, usually or sometimes, their work in the form of remote work. The purpose of this publication is to analyze the impact of working with screen-monitor devices on computer vision syndromes, musculoskeletal disorders, circadian rhythm, and to identify recommendations for the proper organization of the home office. A narrative review of the existing literature on the impact of work with the use of devices equipped with screen monitors on the health of employees was performed, as well as recommendations in the above-mentioned area were presented. The most important factors determining the load on the visual organs and musculoskeletal system and affecting the overall health and well-being of employees during remote work are the proper arrangement of the workstation (in accordance with ergonomic principles) and the organization of work (limiting the time spent working at the computer/laptop, systematic active breaks) and healthy sleep habits. It is crucial that both employers, occupational health professionals and employees themselves are aware of the importance to their health of correct preparation of the home office, and have adequate knowledge in this regard. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2024;75(1):69-80.

Prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms among cement factory workers in Gauteng Province, South Africa.

Cement workers are exposed to various kinds of occupational hazards, dust being the most hazardous. Despite certain exposure limits on the emission of air pollutants in place, several people die each year due to complications from respiratory disease. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms among workers exposed to cement dust. A quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional design was employed among 81 workers from two cement production companies in Gauteng, South Africa in 2018. A self-administered questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and a spirometry test were used as data collection tools. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon rank sum, binary logistic regression, Pearson's chi-squared, and Fischer's exact tests. Respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, recurring blocked nose, sneezing/stuffy nose, fatigue/tiredness, rapid breathing, soreness/watery eyes, and breathlessness were significantly prevalent among participants from both facilities. Engineering and housekeeping control measures such as the use of High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuums to clean up dust and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) where workers are exposed to dust particles should be implemented.

Recent developments in occupational asthma.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Occupational asthma (OA) is a complex condition that can be difficult to diagnose. The purpose of this review is to describe some recent findings regarding the epidemiology of OA, the occupational sensitizing agents, the prognosis of OA, and its primary prevention. RECENT FINDINGS: The risk of developing OA varies according to the geographic localization of the worker, the type of industry and the type of sensitizing agents. New findings have been reported for several known sensitizing agents, such as isocyanates, seafood & cleaning agents, and their related industries, such as hairdressing salons and schools. Moreover, a few new sensitizing agents, such as cannabis, have been identified in the past few years. The prognosis of OA seems worse than that of nonwork-related asthma. It is mainly determined by the duration and the level of exposure. Primary prevention is crucial to reduce the number of new cases of OA. Complete avoidance of exposure to the causal agent remains the optimal treatment of sensitizer-induced OA. SUMMARY: Improving our knowledge regarding OA and its causative agents is key to enable an early recognition of this condition and improve its prognosis. Further research is still needed to improve primary prevention.

[Bibliometric and visual analysis of pneumoconiosis based on Cite Space].

Objective: Through the bibliometrics analysis and visual analysis of Chinese and English literature related to pneumoconiosis through CiteSpace, to understand the research situation, research trend and hotspots of pneumoconiosis, so as to provide reference for further research. Methods: In August 2022, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) data baseand Web of Science core collection database were used as data sources for literature retrieval. Cite Space.5.8.R3c software was used to analyze the cooperation between authors and institutions, keyword co-occurrence analysis, keyword clustering analysis and keyword emergence analysis. Results: A total of 4726 Chinese literature and 2490 English literature related to pneumoconiosis were included; The annual publication volume of Chinese literature shows a fluctuating downward trend, while the annual publication volume of English literature shows a fluctuating upward trend. The Institute of Labor Health and Occupational Disease of the Chinese Academy of Preventive Medical Sciences and the Institute of Occupational Health and Poisoning Control of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention have the highest publication volume (55 articles) in the institutional cooperation network; The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in the United States has the highest publication volume (153 articles) in the institutional collaboration network. The results of keyword co-occurrence, clustering, and prominence analysis show that Chinese literature focuses more on clinical research on pneumoconiosis, while English literature focuses more on experimental research related to the pathogenesis of pneumoconiosis. Conclusion: In the related field of pneumoconiosis research, the experimental research and clinical research on the pathogenesis are the main research hotspots.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among United Arab Emirates schoolteachers: an examination of physical activity.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and their association with physical activity among schoolteachers in the United Arab Emirates. METHODS: This observational cross-sectional study involved 209 schoolteachers (aged 20-60) with a minimum of two years of experience. Data, including demographics (gender, age), Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) for WMSD prevalence and pain sites, and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) for physical activity levels, were collected. Six schools were visited for data collection, with consent from school heads and participants. Schedules were tailored to participant availability, allowing up to three attempts for participation. Non-respondents were identified after three unsuccessful attempts. RESULTS: Of the total 206 participants, 149 were female, while the remaining 57 were male. Age distribution analysis revealed that 18% of individuals were within the 20 to 30 years range, 26.2% fell within the 30 to 40 years, and 36.9% had 40 to 50 years age brackets. The responses were obtained in Arabic (90%) and English (10%). The study identified a high prevalence (71.4%) of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) in UAE schoolteachers, with neck pain being the most common (74.3%). Major risk factors included age, workload, and low physical activity. The data was normally distributed, and Pearson's Correlation test revealed weak positive correlation (r: 0.14), but statistically significant (p value = 0.04) between WMSD and PA, indicating that it was a contributing factor but other factors beyond PA influenced WMSD prevalence in this cohort. The findings of the study are based on certain limitations such as cross-sectional design and convenient sampling which could have potential selection bias and affect generalizability of the results. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest the need to promote physical activity and reduce workload for teachers, considering their age and gender. Additionally, there is a need to raise awareness regarding ergonomics and the importance of taking short breaks for stretching or physical movement to enhance the overall well-being of schoolteachers in the UAE and similar contexts. Diverse prevalence rates across different body areas underscore the necessity for individualized treatments.

Mortality and cancer incidence in perfluorooctanesulfonyl fluoride production workers.

BACKGROUND: Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has been associated with several health outcomes, though few occupationally-exposed populations have been studied. We evaluated mortality and cancer incidence in a cohort of perfluorooctanesulfonyl fluoride-based specialty chemical manufacturing workers. METHODS: The cohort included any employee who ever worked at the facility from 1961 to 2010 (N = 4045), with a primary interest in those who had 365 cumulative days of employment (N = 2659). Vital status and mortality records were obtained through 2014 and the cohort was linked to state cancer registries to obtain incident cancer cases from 1995 to 2014. Cumulative exposure was derived from a comprehensive exposure reconstruction that estimated job-specific perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS)-equivalents (mg/m3 ) exposure. Overall and exposure-specific standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were estimated in reference to the US population. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for cumulative PFOS-equivalent exposure (log2 transformed) were estimated within the cohort for specific causes of death and incident cancers using a time-dependent Cox model. RESULTS: Death rates were lower than expected except for cerebrovascular disease (SMR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.25-4.22) and bladder cancer (SMR = 3.91, 95% CI = 1.07-10.02) in the highest exposure quartile. Within the cohort, the incidence of bladder, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer were positively associated with exposure, however except for lung cancer (HR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.00-1.11) the CIs did not exclude an HR of 1. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides some evidence that occupational exposure to PFOS is associated with bladder and lung cancers and with cerebrovascular disease.