Occupational Health Risks among Pathologists and Pathology Trainees: An Analysis of Prevalence and Factors

Abstract

Objective: To assess the prevalence of work-related hazards faced by Pathologists and residents in the Pathology laboratory in Pakistan. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted over a period of one month from January 2023 to February 2023. The research questionnaire was shared online amongst the Pathologists and Pathology residents. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 28. The qualitative data was described in terms of percentages or frequencies and analyzed using the Chi-square test. AP-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 172 participants, the majority (74.5%) were females. 51.6% of the participants had 31 to 45 hours working, with 26.7% spending 2-4 hours daily on the microscope. Musculoskeletal disorders were seen in 93.2% of the study population followed by visual strain (90.6%) and anxiety and stress in 90.1%. 35.4% reported that the pain was severe enough to take off from work, which involved a greater percentage of females(38%) than males(26%). Males were found to exercise more as compared to females(p-value= 0.044). A significant finding in our study was that psychological disturbances were experienced more in females as compared to males (p-value=0.00,0.00 & 0.00). Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of workplace-based hazards faced by pathologists. Postural support, monitoring work hours, and taking small stretch breaks can play an important part in their professional well-being