Occupational Groups Research Articles

Prevalence of Cannabis Use Among US Workers in 15 States, 2016-2020.

Objectives. To examine the prevalence of cannabis use among US workers using data from the US Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) during 2016 to 2020. Methods. We analyzed past 30-day cannabis use among US workers. We calculated weighted prevalence and adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) of cannabis use for working adults by industry groups, occupation groups, and sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., sex, education, age, race/ethnicity). Results. During the 5-year survey period, the weighted prevalence of past 30-day cannabis use among adult US workers from the 15 states included in the BRFSS was 10.7%. The industry group with the highest weighted prevalence of use was accommodation and food services (20.7%), and the highest-ranking occupation group was food preparation and service (21.9%). The industry group with the highest APR was accommodation and food services (APR = 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10, 1.55), and the occupation group with the highest APR was arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media (APR = 1.91; 95% CI = 1.52, 2.41). Conclusions. Cannabis use among US workers varied widely by sex, age, race, education, industry groups, and occupation groups. A more accurate understanding of this variation can help guide research, focus policy discussions, and prioritize health messaging. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S8):S645-S653. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307788).

Knowledge and utilization of HIV/AIDs preventive measures among intra-city commercial drivers in Kano State, Nigeria

Background: Intracity commercial drivers play a vital role in transportation systems in many urban centers. However, their occupation puts them at risk for HIV infection due to various factors. Despite their increased vulnerability, intracity commercial drivers face significant challenges in accessing HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services. Method: This was an observational community-based cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among intracity commercial drivers in Kano State, Nigeria through multistage sampling technique. Result: the mean age and standard deviation of respondents was 42.0 ± 11.3. About two-third (67.7%) had good aggregate knowledge score and more than half (57.4%) of the study participant had good uptake and utilization of HIV/AIDs preventive services. After adjusting for the confounding effects using logistic regression analysis; educational status of secondary school (AOR=2.25, 95% CI=1.21–13.25) and post-secondary (AOR=4.10,95%CI=2.22-17.88), monthly income of between N50,0001 – N100,000.00 (AOR=2.02, 95%CI=1.74-19.33) and >N100,000.00 (AOR=4.01, 95%CI=3.11-27.33), working experience of 11 – 20 years (AOR=3.25, 95%CI= 1.16-22.56) and >20 years (AOR=6.05, 95%CI= 3.03-26.77) and good aggregate knowledge scores on HIV/AIDs preventive measures (AOR=4.02 (2.13 – 14.55), 95%CI=2.13-14.55) remained significant predictors of uptake/utilization of HIV/AIDs preventive measures. Conclusion: All agencies responsible for HIV/AIDs control and their partners should take appropriate measures including various strategies to educate this occupational group on sexuality and reproductive health. Also, the establishment of STI clinics in strategic locations, as well as making condoms available, accessible, affordable, and acceptable for use by this group of people in our society, should all be part of the prevention strategy.

Incidence of type 2 diabetes by occupation – 10-year follow-up of the Gutenberg Health Study

Abstract Background In order to implement targeted type 2 diabetes (T2D) prevention measures for the workplace, it is important to identify high-risk occupations. Most previous studies examine the association between T2D and occupation cross-sectionally, but longitudinal studies are missing. This study aims to investigate the 10-year incidence of T2D in the working population of a German cohort and identify occupations with an increased risk. Methods Data from the population-based Gutenberg Health Study (GHS) were used to examine occupation at baseline (2007-2012) and T2D incidence at the 10-year follow-up. Occupational phases were coded into categories according to the KldB 2010. T2D was defined as either a physician-diagnosed T2D, HbA1c-level ≥6.5% or use of antidiabetic drugs. Age- and sex-standardised incidence and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for occupational groups based on the age- and sex-distribution of the German population. Standardised incidence ratios (SIR) and 95% CI were calculated using the incidence in the total GHS working population as the reference. Results Of 8130 workers at baseline, 45.2% were female, the mean age was 48.4 years and 4.5% had prevalent T2D. 388 cases occurred between baseline and the 10-year follow-up within the subgroup of persons without prevalent T2D at baseline and with follow-up data (n = 5954). The standardised incidence was 6.9%. “Food production and processing” (20.7%), “cleaners” (16.5%) and “drivers and mobile plant operators” (14.8%) had the highest standardised incidences. Compared to the total working population, we observed a threefold increased SIR for employees in “food production and processing” (3.0, 95% CI 1.8-4.7) and a two times higher SIR for “cleaners” (2.2, 95% CI 1.0-4.7) and “drivers and mobile plant operators” (2.2, 95% CI 1.3-3.3). Conclusions We identified occupations with an increased risk of T2D. Preventive measures and etiological research on work-related risks should focus on these occupations. Key messages • The highest standardised incidence was observed in the occupational groups “food production and processing”, “cleaners” and “drivers and mobile plant operators”. • Targeted prevention measures for type 2 diabetes in the workplace should focus on these occupational groups with increased incidence.

An integrated work health intervention among cleaners in Denmark

Abstract Introduction Work-related diseases are increasing and considered a global health challenge. Meanwhile, work-related risk factors and diseases are not equally distributed across occupational groups. Previous work health interventions have not succeeded in reducing the prevalence of work-related diseases. Therefore, integrated approaches combining prevention of disease and promotion of health in work health interventions have been developed. The aim of the Integrated Approach to Health, Wellbeing, and Productivity at Work (ITASPA) intervention was to prevent work-related injuries and diseases and promote the health, safety and wellbeing of cleaners. Methods The ITASPA intervention was implemented at two Danish workplaces among cleaners. At each workplace a committee of employees was established to develop their own initiatives to promote the health of the workers. By use of the British Medical research Council’s framework, a process evaluation was conducted. Qualitative data (focus group interview and field notes) and quantitative data (questionnaires) of participants evaluated the implementation. Results A total of 91 cleaners participated in health checks, and three workshops were held at each workplace. The development and implementation of activities was affected by mechanisms, such as lack of information about the intervention, new power dynamics, and lack of motivation for behavior changes, and contextual factors, such as many replacements, time pressure and absence of managers. Conclusions Integrated approaches in work health interventions among employees with short or no education may positively impact employees’ health, wellbeing and safety if comprehensively implemented. However, attention should be drawn to interventions that adapt a participatory design, as unintended power dynamics may occur when employees are given the tasks of implementing behavior changes among colleagues. The role of managers to obtain successful implementation should be highlighted.

Health workers’ perceptions on refugees’ access to healthcare and right to health in Turkiye

Abstract In Turkey, over the past decade, the influx of refugees has significantly influenced migration policy and consequently, health policy for refugees, shaping the perspectives of healthcare workers towards refugees. To gauge healthcare workers’ perceptions regarding refugees’ access to healthcare and their right to health, a survey was conducted across three hospitals in two cities (n = 547). The drop-collect methodology was used, obtaining consent in advance. Healthcare workers (HCWs) were classified into four groups: doctors (n: 139), nurses and midwives (n: 201), other healthcare professionals (n: 58) and non-healthcare professional (n: 137). Additionally, twelve people who did not want to disclose their profession were excluded from the statistics when comparing responses by profession. According to HCWs’ experiences, the most common obstacles faced by refugees included language barriers due to not knowing Turkish, the absence of interpreters in hospitals, cultural disparities, and financial constraints. Among HCWs, 89.8% (n = 491) believe that health constitutes a fundamental human right, yet only 55.8% (n = 305) advocate for free emergency services for all. Furthermore, 43.1% express concerns that providing healthcare to refugees might attract more refugees, and 38% suggest that only individuals deemed healthy through health screening upon entry should be permitted into the country. Responses to inquiries about the prevalent issues varied across cities and occupational groups. Despite the majority of HCWs adopting a right-based approach to health, it is evident that some lean towards a deservingness perspective regarding refugees’ access to healthcare. Consequently, there is a pressing need for collaboration among various sectors to furnish adequate information and training for HCWs on migrants’ rights and prejudice. This should be a part of migration policy, leading to a more migrant-friendly health system. Key messages • Collaboration among diverse sectors is urgently needed to provide healthcare workers with thorough information and training on the rights of migrants and addressing prejudice. • Implementing training programs for healthcare workers as a component of migration policy is essential for building a migrant-friendly healthcare system.

Do shift-working nurses’ work-life quality relate to their physical health and diet quality?

Abstract Background Shift work negatively affects work-related quality of life and this situation causes significant labour force losses and decreased productivity in the society, especially health problems in nurses. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between work-related quality of life, physical health level and nutritional behaviours of nurses working in shifts. Methods This descriptive and relationship-seeking study was conducted with 312 nurses selected by quota sampling in Istanbul. Data were collected between December 2022 to July 2023 using the The Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL), Physical Health Questionnaire and Food Consumption Frequency Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation tests were conducted on IBM SPSS 25.0. BeBIS 7.1 software were used for calculation diet index. Results Compassion Satisfaction (CS), Burnout (B) and Compassion Fatigue (CF) scores of nurses was examined, a relationship was found between CS score and B score (r=-0.39 p < 0.05) and between B score and CF score (r = 0.58 p < 0.05). CS score correlated with Cardiovascular Risk Level score (r=-0.15 p < 0.05) and diet index score (r = 0.15 p < 0.05). B score correlated with Gastrointestinal Risk Level score (r = 0.27 p < 0.05) and Cardiovascular Risk Level score (r = 0.38 p < 0.05). There was a correlation between the score of CF and Gastrointestinal Risk Level score (r = 0.25 p < 0.05) and Cardiovascular Risk Level score (r = 0.31 p < 0.05). Daily energy, fibre, vitamin B1 and C, folate, calcium and magnesium intakes of nurses were lower than the recommended. Conclusions Research results support that the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems have a direct relationship with stress and emotional states. In the policies to be developed within the scope of occupational health nursing practices, it is recommended to carry out studies to improve the physical health and nutritional behaviours of nurses in order to improve their work-related quality of life. Key messages • Nurses are a risky occupational group in terms of burnout. Protection studies should be prioritised to prevent burnout. • Gastrointestinal and cardiovascular system complaints of nurses should be paid special attention during recruitment and periodic examinations.

Sociodemographic differences in low back pain: which subgroups of workers are most vulnerable?

BackgroundLow back pain (LBP) is a common health problem in workers that contributes to work disability and reduces quality of life. However, studies examining vulnerable groups in relation to sociodemographic differences in LBP remain scarce. Therefore, the current study investigates which sociodemographic groups of workers are most affected by LBP.MethodsData from the 2018 BIBB/BAuA employment survey were used (N = 16252). Age, education, occupational group, income, working hours, atypical working time, relationship status, and having children were used as sociodemographic predictors. Gender-stratified logistic regression analyses and intersectional classification tree analyses were conducted.ResultsA higher prevalence of LBP was observed for women compared to men. Significant differences in LBP emerged for age, working hours, atypical working time, occupational group and education, with some gender differences in the importance of predictors: Age was a significant predictor mostly in men as compared to women, atypical working hours had a slightly greater effect in women, whereas differences in LBP according to the occupational group were more pronounced for men. Vulnerable groups were found to be women who work in occupations other than professionals or managers, work atypical hours and have an intermediate or low educational level as well as men who work as skilled agricultural workers, craft workers, machine operators, or elementary occupations and are between 35 and 64 years old.ConclusionsThus, workers with certain occupations and lower levels of education, middle-aged men and women with unfavourable working time characteristics are most affected by low back pain. These groups should be focused on to potentially increase healthy working life and prevent work disability.

Prevalence of Oral Potentially Malignant Lesions, Tobacco use, and Effect of Cessation Strategies among Solid Waste Management workers in Northern India: a pre-post intervention study

BackgroundIndia bears the highest global burden of oral cancer, despite having an operational tobacco cessation framework. Occupational groups like solid waste management personnel face significant health challenges due to prevalent tobacco use, leading to oral potentially malignant lesions and oral cancer. Enhanced tobacco control strategies are essential for these groups.MethodsA pre-post interventional, community-based study enrolled 1200 municipal workers in Varanasi, India, from July 2022 to August 2023. 858 tobacco users underwent screening and were randomly assigned to one of three interventions: Very Brief Advice, Individual Behavioral Counseling, or Group Behavioral Therapy. Follow-up was conducted one year after the baseline interventions Effectiveness was measured by nicotine dependence reduction using the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) scores and cessation rates defined as at least 6-month abstinence. Appropriate statistical tests assessed the burden of tobacco use, oral potentially malignant lesions, and pre-post differences in FTND scores within and between groups. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsMunicipal workers exhibited a high prevalence (71.5%) of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use. One-third (32.9%) of the participants screened positive for oral potentially malignant lesions and oral cancer. Leukoplakia was the most common lesion. Screened positivity correlated with significant nicotine dependence. Among 494 follow-up participants, 47.1% reported a significant reduction in nicotine dependence across all intervention groups. Quade’s ANCOVA indicated significant differences in post-test FTND scores, with individual behavioral counselling showing the greatest reduction. However, no cessation was achieved in any group despite the significant decline in dependence.ConclusionSolid waste management personnel in Varanasi show heightened SLT use and associated oral potentially malignant lesions. The persistent tobacco use in these high-risk occupational populations undermines government tobacco control efforts and highlights the need for robust policy and implementation strategies. The study demonstrated a significant reduction in nicotine dependence following interventions, though tobacco cessation was not achieved. More frequent interventions and addressing quitting barriers—such as cultural norms, lack of awareness, easy accessibility, and adverse working conditions—are crucial. Developing a tailored workplace model to tackle tobacco use in occupational settings may facilitate cessation.Clinical trial registration numberTrial registration Clinical Trials Registry India CTRI/2020/07/026479. Date of registration 10/07/2020.

Comparison of depressive symptoms among emergency physicians and the general population in China: a cross-sectional study based on national data

BackgroundWhile physicians are considered to be more susceptible to developing depressive symptoms, empirical data are lacking. The study aims to compare the risk of depressive symptoms between emergency physicians and the general population in China based on national data.MethodsThis was a national cross-sectional study. 10 457 emergency physicians and 101 120 participants from the general population were investigated from July 2018 to August 2018 and January 2019 to February 2019, respectively. PHQ-9 was used to measure depressive symptoms, and a score ≥ 10 indicates major depression. Propensity score matching was adopted to balance the characteristics between emergency physicians and the general population. Multinomial logistic regression model was used to examine the association between occupational groups and the severity of depressive symptoms. Binary logistic regression model was performed to explore the risk factors of major depression among emergency physicians.ResultsThe prevalence of major depression among emergency physicians was 35.7%, whereas among the general population was 13.9%. Emergency physicians had a 3.65 times higher risk of major depression than the general population. And emergency physician was significantly associated with mild (OR: 3.12, 95% CI 2.95–3.30), moderate (OR: 4.94, 95% CI 4.60–5.30), moderately severe (OR: 9.48, 95% CI 8.61–10.44), and severe depressive symptoms (OR: 14.18, 95% CI 12.47–16.13) compared with none depressive symptoms. Even after matching, the results remained consistent. Factors associated with major depression among emergency physicians included bachelor degree or above (OR: 1.22, 95% CI 1.06–1.40), worked long years (OR: 1.26, 95% CI 1.08–1.46 for 1–5 years; OR: 1.56, 95% CI 1.32–1.84 for ≥ 6 years), experienced workplace violence (OR: 2.51, 95% CI 2.16–2.94), worked more night shifts per month (OR: 1.33, 95% CI 1.16–1.51 for 6–10 times; OR: 1.83, 95% CI 1.58–2.11 for ≥ 11 times), smoked (OR: 1.64, 95% CI 1.47–1.84), and effort-reward imbalance (OR: 4.18, 95% CI 3.62–4.85).ConclusionsEmergency physicians had a higher risk of depressive symptoms than the general population. There is a need for greater awareness of the mental health issues faced by emergency physicians.

The battle over the past: The role of occupational groups in organizational memory

This article delves into the intricate processes of memory within occupational groups, with a specific focus on perceiving memory as a way of adapting to a changing environment. We are investigating how individuals from two occupational groups in the university (academic and non-academic) navigate the process of remembering and forgetting to adapt to a changed environment (leadership change). Using two university colleges as case studies, we examine this phenomenon over a 1.5-year period via qualitative interviews. Our findings underscore that distinct occupational groups employ varied approaches to draw upon the past, where the key is in how they “sense” the situation. This article contributes by operationalizing four manifestations of “senses” to elucidate how organizational memory, encompassing both forgetting and remembering, operates as a means of adaptation.

Prevalence and association of musculoskeletal disorders with various risk factors among older Indian adults: Insights from a nationally representative survey.

Globally, Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the biggest contributor (17%) to years lived with disability. For offering diagnosis and appropriate health interventions options along with follow-up care, it is pertinent to have a thorough awareness of its associated risk factors. The study aims to assess the prevalence and association between MSDs and risk factors among the Indian older adults above 45 years. Prevalence of MSDs among 28,436 participants was estimated using nationally representative survey on older Indian adults. Spatial distribution maps were created to display the magnitude of MSD prevalence at Indian sub-national level. Association between presence of MSDs and associated risk factors (such as occupation, employment duration, physical activity, BMI, diabetes, hypertension, tobacco usage, and alcohol consumption) was explored through Multivariate logistic regression. P-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. MSD was prevalent in over half of participants (53.5 (52.9-54.1)%), with more among females and in those aged >60 years (60.4 (59.3-61.4)%). Overall, joint pain (41.9 (41.3-41.4)%) was more common than back pain (32.6 (32.0-33.1)%). Prevalence was highest in Manipur (81.1 (77.9-83.9)%) and lowest in West Bengal (33.1 (30.7-35.5)%). MSD presence was positively associated with certain occupational groups, pre-obesity (BMI 25-29.9 Kg/m2), currently hypertensive, vigorous physical activity among overall population. Tobacco usage was positively associated, while alcohol consumption was linked to a lower occurrence of MSDs for 45-60 years age group. Customised policy interventions can be developed for specific age category of older Indian adults and musculoskeletal health can be improved by addressing modifiable risk factors such as physical inactivity, tobacco usage, avoiding workplace risks in occupations requiring manual labour as revealed by this study.

Investigating Quality of Life in Mental Health Professionals and the Role of Social Support and Spiritual Needs: A Cross-Sectional Study in Greece

The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of social support and spiritual needs on the Quality of Life of mental health professionals in Greece. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 97 mental health professionals of various specialties. The QoL10 questionnaire was used to assess the Quality of Life, the MSPSS for social support and the SpNQ for spiritual needs. The results of the survey showed that the Quality of Life of the participants was generally good, with an average value of 3.72 on a scale of 1-5. Social support appeared to be significantly and positively correlated with Quality of Life (r=0.565, p&lt;0.001), while spiritual needs showed no significant correlation. Linear regression analysis revealed social support as the only significant predictor of QoL. Sociodemographic characteristics were not found to be significantly related to Quality of Life, although there were indications of a possible association with gender as well as marital status that need further investigation. In conclusion, social support appears to be an important protective factor for mental health professionals' Quality of Life. Future perspectives include continuing the research in a larger and more representative sample, as well as investigating additional factors that may influence the Quality of Life of this occupational group.

Participatory Community Learning to Develop a Digital Market Management System for Community Enterprises and Stable Occupation Groups Nam Phrik Kaeng Krua Khanong, Song Khanong Subdistrict, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province

Background and Aim: Digital Marketing Management is critical for successfully promoting products and services in the digital age. It allows businesses to reach a larger audience, interact with customers in real-time, and tailor strategies based on data insights to boost growth and brand awareness. This study investigates the digital marketing practices of the Song Khanong Occupation Group in Prik Kaeng Krua Khanong, Nakhon Pathom Province, aiming to enhance customer engagement, brand awareness, and sales outcomes by focusing on Generation Z and Baby Boomers. Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods approach was utilized, combining surveys of 200 community members on digital media usage, content preferences, brand perception, and customer satisfaction, along with interviews with key stakeholders about marketing strategies. Data analysis involved calculating mean scores to assess satisfaction with digital marketing elements. Results: Results showed high satisfaction among Generation Z, with Facebook as the preferred platform (mean score: 4.86). Infographics and videos received the highest scores (4.93 and 4.80, respectively), while Baby Boomers valued brand aesthetics (overall score: 4.77). Tools like Chatbots and QR Codes enhanced user experience significantly. Conclusion: The study underscores the need for effective digital marketing strategies in community enterprises to boost engagement and brand recognition. High satisfaction levels indicate that tailored content and a robust online presence are essential for customer retention. Future efforts should focus on continuous improvement and leveraging technology for better communication, enabling sustainable growth for community enterprises in Song Khanong.

Bioelectric brain activity in workers with hand-arm vibration in dynamics

Introduction. A few neurophysiologic studies have shown that changes of the bioelectrical brain activity are observed in hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) patients. There is practically no information about the state of bioelectrical brain activity in the hand-arm vibration. The purpose is to study the dynamics of the formation of neurophysiologic changes in workers exposed to hand-arm vibration. Materials and methods. Electroencephalography (EEG) and registration of evoked potentials (EP) was carried out in workers exposed to hand-arm vibration (practically healthy workers, HAVS individuals who continue to work in their occupation), twice in a connected sample. The results are presented as median, upper and lower quartiles, and extensive indicators. The significance of differences was assessed using Pearson’s χ2 test, Fisher’s angular transformation, and Wilcoxon T-test. Results. In dynamics, there is a change in the EEG pattern from disorganized with a predominance of alpha activity to disorganized with a predominance of delta, and theta activity; a decrease in the spectral power of the main EEG rhythms in all main functional leads in both examined groups. Diffuse changes in the EEG indicate a multisystem nature of bioelectrical brain activity disorders with involvement of the cerebral cortex, stem, and diencephalic structures of the brain. Changes in the amplitude-temporal parameters of EP manifested by an excess of the latency of the main peaks and a decrease in amplitude, indicate an imbalance in the central nervous system, general modulating influences on the cerebral cortex of the thalamocortical systems of the brain. Limitations. One occupational group with different levels of health status – practically healthy workers, HAVS individuals who continue to work in their occupation – was enrolled in the study. Conclusion. The one-direction and progressive development of changes in the bioelectrical brain activity has been established, manifested by a restructuring of the electrical activity of the brain, desynchronization of neuronal activity, an increase in the level of functional activity of the brain, and an imbalance of general modulating influences on the cerebral cortex. The identified changes are a manifestation of the nonspecific part of the pathogenesis of HAVS.

Occupational differences in SARS-CoV-2 infection: the Japan COVID-19 and Society Internet Survey (JACSIS) study in 2022

BackgroundDuring the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, essential workers (e.g. medical workers) may be at a high prevalence of contracting COVID-19; however, the trend remains unclear in Japan. This study aimed to investigate occupational differences in the prevalence of COVID-19.MethodsData were retrieved from the 2022 Japan COVID-19 and Society Internet Survey. We analyzed the self-reported SARS-CoV-2 infection as of October 2022. We included 21,875 participants aged 20–64 years. Participants were classified into five occupation groups (“medical workers,” “off-site medical workers,” “care workers,” “other essential workers”, and “non-essential workers”), as well as those unemployed. The prevalence ratio of COVID-19 was computed using Poisson regression. We included sex, age, SARS-CoV-2 vaccination history, number of households, education level, and residential area as covariates. Additionally, we performed similar analyses for three time periods: (1) August–September 2022, (2) October 2021 to July 2022, and (3) before September 2021.ResultsThe overall cumulative prevalence of COVID-19, as of October 2022, was 16.5%. Regarding occupation, medical workers had a higher prevalence than non-essential workers (23.5% vs 16.2% (difference: 7.2% point [95% confidence interval (CI): 4.2–10.2])). Similar results were observed among care workers compared with non-essential workers (22.1% vs 16.2% (difference: 5.9% point [95% CI: 2.5%–9.3%])). Other essential workers had a similar prevalence to non-essential workers (17.6% vs 16.2% (difference: 1.4% point [95% CI: -0.1%–2.8%]). In relative terms, medical workers and care workers were associated with an increased prevalence of COVID-19 (prevalence ratio: 1.44 [95% CI: 1.20–1.73] and 1.36 [95% CI: 1.11–1.66], respectively). In addition, we found that younger age, living in endemic region (e.g., Tokyo and Osaka), and living with more than four people contributed to the higher prevalence. According to the time period, the prevalence was significantly higher in medical and care workers than in non-essential workers only during August–September 2022, which corresponded to the severest outbreak period in Japan.ConclusionsIn Japan, medical and care workers had a higher prevalence of contracting COVID-19 compared to non-essential workers. However, this trend emerged during the peak of the COVID-19 spreading in the summer of 2022.

Aluminum exposure levels in workers at electrolytic production

Introduction. Occupational exposure to aluminum has been established to lead to accumulation of metal in tissues and create a risk of functional impairment in the central nervous system. The aim of the work was to assess the levels of external and internal aluminum exposure in workers at the electrolytic production of aluminum under modern occupation conditions. Materials and methods. Two hundred fifty measurements of the average shift aluminum oxide concentration were analyzed at various stages of the technological process. The urine aluminum concentration urine was determined by the atomic absorption method. Results. The aluminum oxide concentration in the housings with the unbaked anode technology varied from 0.59 to 17.95 mg/m3. The MPC was exceeded at the electrolyzer workplace in 10% of measurements, the anode maker — in 40%, and the crane operator – in 50%. In housings with a baked anode, the aluminum oxide concentration in all measurements did not exceed the MPC. The highest aluminum emission was observed in occupational groups associated with unbaked anodes. A trend model was constructed for the dependence of urine aluminum concentration on the aluminum dioxide level in the air, which has the form of an exponential curve. The bend in the curve begins with an air aluminum dioxide content of about 4.2 mg/m3. Limitations. The study is limited by the number of examined workers who underwent periodic medical examination. Conclusion. The results of biomonitoring showed the elimination of aluminum with urine to reflect the level of exposure to the toxicant. The equation of the dependence of the urine aluminum concentration on the air aluminum dioxide level was calculated.

Developing a job-exposure matrix for sedentary behavior: A study based on the Inpatient Clinico-Occupational Database of Rosai Hospital Group.

To develop a job-exposure matrix for sedentary behavior and assess its relationship with non-communicable diseases. We constructed a job-exposure matrix using occupational and industry classifications combined with data on daily average sitting durations from 41,718 individuals. This matrix was then applied to a cohort of 706,939 participants in a case-control study to explore the link between sedentary behavior and non-communicable disease risks. The matrix effectively identified sedentary behavior across different occupational groups. Using the matrix to assess sedentary behavior, associations were found between increased sedentary activity and heightened risks of diabetes, acute myocardial infarction, and endometrial cancer, while a reduced risk was observed for stroke. The job-exposure matrix provides valuable insights into the health impacts of sedentary behavior in the workplace, underscoring significant disease risks associated with prolonged inactivity.

Occupational well-being of diplomatic personnel: a qualitative study.

Diplomatic personnel face unique job demands due to their frequent relocations. There is some evidence that occupational stress contributes to poor well-being in this occupational group, but little research on the aspects of the job that are perceived to be particularly challenging. This study aimed to explore diplomatic personnel's perceptions of their organization and their roles and to identify aspects of the job, which could cause stress and potentially affect well-being. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 24 employees of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office between September 2021 and February 2022. Participants were asked to reflect on their experiences before the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Participants enjoyed many aspects of their work including the variety, travel opportunities and feeling that they made a difference. They also identified several stressors relating to job demands, overseas postings, family needs, frequent relocation, hardship posts, workplace relationships, (lack of) appreciation and acknowledgement, and organizational culture. Good relationships with colleagues and managers were perceived to be very important. Findings suggest various ways in which diplomatic organizations can better support their personnel, highlighting workload management; cross-cultural training; providing appropriate support to both accompanying families and unaccompanied staff members; practical and psychological preparation for those in high-risk locations; encouraging positive workplace relationships; good management; increased autonomy and increased recognition for good work.

Unanticipated outcomes of an occupational rehabilitation group on low-SES ultra-Orthodox women’s self-concept

ABSTRACT This longitudinal ethnographic study examines the development of the occupational self-concept of low socioeconomic status ultra-Orthodox women participating in a government-sponsored program to promote integration into the workforce. We followed participants for 18 months to learn about their experience and its effects, using group observations, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. The findings revealed central elements of the intercultural encounter of ultra-Orthodox women with a neoliberal organization. A year after the program’s conclusion, the participants unexpectedly underwent occupational regression, intensifying their commitment to their roles in the home arena rather than achieving the declared goal of occupational integration. The process led the women to embrace a self-concept resonating with the neoliberal characteristics presented in the program but applying it in the home and not the occupational space. This article suggests that neoliberal discourse, with its Western, secular, and class origins, left participants with a self-concept incompatible with the collective self characterizing their culture. We emphasize the importance of incorporating culturally sensitive practices for occupational rehabilitation which consider the potential conflict between the hegemonic discourse (represented by the organizations) and the program participants (minority groups from diverse cultural backgrounds).

Hysterectomy across Different Occupational Groups of Women in India: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Aims and Objective: The paper aims to examine the prevalence of hysterectomy amongst 451,853 women aged 25–49 years by different occupation groups in India and seek to identify associated factors. It is a cross-sectional study using bivariate and multivariate analyses. Materials and Methods: Data available in the public domain from the fourth round of the National Family Health Survey, conducted pan-India including both rural and urban areas during 2015–2016 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, are used. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed to investigate hysterectomy prevalence across various states and union territories and other independent variables in India. Further, two binary logistic regression models were run to examine the determinants of hysterectomy where the dependent variable had undergone hysterectomy and not undergone hysterectomy. Results: The result revealed that about five in every 100 Indian women had undergone hysterectomy. Excessive menstrual bleeding was the most common underlying condition for undergoing hysterectomy amongst all occupation groups. The prevalence was found to be the highest amongst agricultural women workers who are 32% (odds ratio = 1.320; confidence interval: 1.209–1.440) significantly more likely to undergo hysterectomy compared to other occupation groups. Conclusion: These results raise questions about poor access to quality healthcare services particularly for sexual and reproductive health amongst women working in the agricultural sector.