Health conditions and life-working style of oyster farmers in Hiroshima Bay / 日本農村医学会雑誌

An investigation was made into the health conditions of oyster farmers in Hiroshima Bay with reference to their job requirements and way of life. The findings are as follows:<BR>Their working conditions are harsh. However, compared with those engaged in agriculture, the oyster farmers eat fairly large amounts of calorific foods, especially animal products. Their alcoholic consumption is also large. They get enough sleep and rest on a regular basis.<BR>Mild obesity, hypertension and hyperlipidemia are prevalent among men, and tendency of obesity is more common among women. Furthermore, those with the risk factors for arteriosclerosis account for more than 50% of the people examined.<BR>From these findings, it could be said that their health is at risk. Appropriate and effective measures should be taken promptly so as to reduce the risks, particularly those risks associated with arteriosclerotic damage. Mechanization will be one of the measures against the health resks that oyster famers are now exposed to. Without preventive measures, there might be an outbreak of the diseases originating in the blood vessels.

Workload and health of farmers of middle age or over in the suburbs of a city of Hiroshima Prefecture with special reference to blood test findings / 日本農村医学会雑誌

A questionnaire was conducted on the living and working conditions of inhabitants in the suburbs of a city in Hiroshima Prefecture. Respondents received medical and nutritional examinations. A summary of our findings is as follows:<BR>Those persons who are apparently overworking themselves eke out their energy deficiency by taking diets rich in carbohydrate complex. Their major health problems are hypertension, ischemic changes in ECG, anemia and lower cholinesterase activity.<BR>There were indications that agricultural chemicals have harmful effects on the health of the examinees.<BR>In contrast, many of those who work less consume large-even excessive-amounts of animal proteins and fats. Among them prevail liver failxure and metabolic disorders.<BR>In either group of the people examined, there was amundant evidence to show that they are at risk of developing arteriosclerosis.<BR>These findings should be taken into consideration when a health control program is implemnted.