Analyzing the influencing factors of sleep quality of coal miners in a company in Shanxi Province / 中国职业医学

{L-End}Objective To investigate the current status of sleep quality and its influencing factors among coal miners in a company in Shanxi Province. {L-End}Methods A total of 1 047 coal miners from a coal mine company in Shanxi Province were selected as the study subjects by convenient sampling method. The occupational stress, occupational burnout and sleep quality of the study subjects were investigated using Occupational Stress Core Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index Scale. {L-End}Results The detection rates of occupational stress, occupational burnout, sleep disorder were 58.9%, 59.1% and 57.9%, respectively. The result of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that education level, alcohol consumption, work shift, duration of dust-exposure, phase of respiratory symptoms, self-assessment of health, occupational stress and occupational burnout were independent influencing factors of sleep disorders in the coal miners (all P<0.05). Among them, the risk of sleep disorders in drinkers was higher than that in non-drinkers (P<0.05); the risk of sleep disorders was higher in miners working in a rotating work shift with two shifts than in those with three shifts (P<0.05); the higher the education level, the longer the duration of dust-exposure, the more serious the phase of respiratory symptoms, the worse the self-assessment of health, the higher the degree of occupational stress and the higher the degree of occupational burnout, the higher the risk of sleep disorders (all P<0.05). {L-End}Conclusion The incidence of sleep disorders in coal miners in this company is relatively high. Occupational stress, occupational burnout, education level, alcohol consumption, work shift, duration of dust-exposure, respiratory symptoms and health status are risk factors for sleep disorders in coal miners.

Pneumoconiosis: Cumulative global research output

Due to continuous exposure to airborne respirable dust, miners are in danger of acquiring pneumoconiosis, a lung illness. Extra tiny particles in this sort of dust can be ingested into lung tissue which can result in pneumoconiosis creating disease conditions of disability with associated medical complications leading to premature death. This study tries to establish the current trends in pneumoconiosis research globally. A total of 950 results in the scholarly peer-reviewed publications from 2011-2020 curated from Web of Science Core Collection showed India to have contributed 20 records. This analysis also revealed that the most opted or chosen journal by the authors for the publication was the American Journal of Industrial Medicine. Apart from this, it was also seen that the scholars from Peoples R China and USA ranked highest in the list with almost half of the publications achieved alone. However, for Indian scholars to be counted among the lead global leaders, it is imperative that a more concerted effort is made in the specific area of pneumoconiosis research.

Analysis of chromosome aberration in peripheral blood lymphocytes of underground miners in non-uranium metal mines / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective:To investigate chromosomal aberrations in peripheral blood lymphocytes of underground miners, in order to explore the influencing factors involved in chromosomal aberration levels of non-uranium metal mines.Methods:Totall 135 workers were recruited from an iron mine and a gold mine located in different cities of Henan province, where 69 workers worked aboveground and 66 miners worked underground in the metal mines. The radon concentration in the mines was measured by solid-state nuclear track detectors. Chromosomal aberrations in peripheral blood lymphocytes from the subjects were detected using conventional analysis method, and the influence factors of chromosomal aberrations were analyzed.Results:Radon concentration was 30-2 943 Bq/m 3 in the aboveground workplace of the mines, and 62-28 314 Bq/m 3 in underground. The age of the underground group was obviously lower than that of the aboveground group( t=2.12, P<0.05), but the frequencies of dicentrics, translocation, acentric fragment, and total chromosome-type aberrations in the underground group were significantly higher than those in the aboveground group ( χ2=10.49, 16.74, 8.15, 29.50, P<0.01). Consistent results were obtained when only male workers were regarded as object of observation ( χ2=8.44, 11.63, 4.94, 20.81, P<0.05). The frequency of translocation ( χ2=8.44, P<0.05) was dependent on the length of service in the underground group. Poisson regression analysis indicated that the aboveground and undergroud grouping partly affected the levels of dicentrics, translocation, acentric fragment, and total chromosome-type aberrations (the underground group IRR=3.25, 2.69, 1.97, 2.18, P<0.05). Conclusions:The radon exposure in the underground workplace of the metal mines may be the main factor resulting in the increase of chromosome-type aberrations of miners. The occupational health and safety of the miners who may be exposed to high radon levels are worthy of great attention.

Current health status of high-radon exposure miners in a typical non-uranium mine in Jiangxi Province, China / 中国辐射卫生

Objective To investigate the health status of high-radon exposure miners in a typical non-uranium mine in Jiangxi Province, China. Methods A general survey was conducted to investigate the basic situation and awareness rate of radon among underground miners aged ≥ 40 years, and the occupational health examination and low-dose lung computed tomography scan were carried out. Results The awareness rate of radon among miners working down the mine was only 3.70%. The peripheral blood lymphocyte chromosome aberration analysis showed an aberration rate of 0% per 100 cells. The peripheral blood lymphocyte micronucleus test showed an abnormal rate of 0.02‰. Ophthalmic examinations (slit-lamp examination of the lens, the vitreous body, the fundus) showed no abnormality. The abnormal rate of leukocyte count was 3.70%, and the detection rate of small lung nodules was 48.15%. Conclusion The high-radon exposure minors had a high detection rate of small lung nodules, and lack knowledge of radon. It is urgent to strengthen the publicity and education on the hazards of radon and the prevention and control of occupational diseases.

Riesgo por exposición a agentes químicos y atmósferas explosivas en minas de carbón de Tópaga, Colombia / Risk due to exposure to chemical agents and explosive atmospheres in the coal mines of Tópaga, Colombia / Risco de exposição a agentes químicos e atmosferas explosivas em minas de carvão em Topaga, Colômbia

RESUMEN Se realizó un estudio observacional de corte transversal con enfoque descriptivo con el objetivo de determinar el riesgo por exposición a agentes químicos, atmósferas peligrosas y definir recomendaciones para mejorar las condiciones de trabajo en las minas de carbón de Tópaga (Boyacá). Para recopilar la información se utilizó el cuestionario para la identificación y prevención del riesgo en espacios confinados, del Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, y se realizaron mediciones de gases en las minas. Los resultados muestran que el 25% de las minas tienen niveles de oxígeno inferiores a 19,5% y ninguna supera el límite de explosividad. El 15% supera el Valor Límite Permisible (VLP) de monóxido de carbono y el 20% supera el VLP de sulfuro de hidrógeno y dióxido de azufre. Entre las recomendaciones propuestas se encuentra favorecer la ventilación natural, aplicar ventilación forzada cuando la natural resulte insuficiente y el empleo de calzado y herramientas antichispa. Se concluye que, en general, las condiciones de trabajo en las minas son inadecuadas para la seguridad y salud de los mineros.

ABSTRACT An observational cross-sectional study with a descriptive approach was carried out with the objective of determining the risk due to exposure to chemical agents, dangerous atmospheres and defining recommendations to improve working conditions in the coal mines of Tópaga (Boyacá). During the data collection process was used the questionnaire for the identification and prevention of risk in confined spaces, of the National Institute of Safety and Hygiene at Work. Moreover gas measurements were made in the mines. The results show that 25% of the mines have oxygen levels below 19.5% and none exceed the explosive limit. 15% exceed the Permissible Limit Value (VLP) for carbon monoxide and 20% exceed the VLP for hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide. The proposed recommendations include favoring natural ventilation, applying forced ventilation when the natural one is insufficient and the use of non-sparking shoes and tools. It is concluded that, in general, the working conditions in the mines are inadequate for the safety and health of the miners.

RESUMO Foi realizado um estudo observacional transversal com abordagem descritiva com o objetivo de determinar o risco devido à exposição a agentes químicos, atmosferas perigosas e definir recomendações para melhorar as condições de trabalho nas minas de carvão de Tópaga em Boyacá. Para colher as informações, foi utilizado o questionário de identificação e prevenção de riscos em espaços confinados, do Instituto Nacional de Segurança e Higiene no Trabalho, e realizaram medidas do nível dos gases nas minas visitadas. Os resultados mostram que 25% das minas apresentam níveis de oxigênio abaixo de 19,5% e nenhuma excede o limite explosivo. 15% excedem o valor limite permitido (VLP) para o monóxido de carbono e 20% excedem o VLP para o sulfeto de hidrogênio e dióxido de enxofre. Entre as recomendações propostas estão favorecer a ventilação natural, aplicar ventilação forçada quando a ventilação natural for insuficiente e o uso de calçados e ferramentas anti-faísca. Conclui-se que, em geral, as condições de trabalho nas minas são inadequadas para a segurança e a saúde dos mineiros.

The impact of imported malaria by gold miners in Roraima: characterizing the spatial dynamics of autochthonous and imported malaria in an urban region of Boa Vista

BACKGROUND The number of malaria cases in Roraima nearly tripled from 2016 to 2018. The capital, Boa Vista, considered a low-risk area for malaria transmission, reported an increasing number of autochthonous and imported cases. OBJECTIVES This study describes a spatial analysis on malaria cases in an urban region of Boa Vista, which sought to identify the autochthonous and imported cases and associated them with Anopheles habitats and the potential risk of local transmission. METHODS In a cross-sectional study at the Polyclinic Cosme e Silva, 520 individuals were interviewed and diagnosed with malaria by microscopic examination. Using a global positional system, the locations of malaria cases by type and origin and the breeding sites of anopheline vectors were mapped and the risk of malaria transmission was evaluated by spatial point pattern analysis. FINDINGS Malaria was detected in 57.5% of the individuals and there was a disproportionate number of imported cases (90.6%) linked to Brazilian coming from gold mining sites in Venezuela and Guyana. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The increase in imported malaria cases circulating in the west region of Boa Vista, where there are positive breeding sites for the main vectors, may represent a potential condition for increased autochthonous malaria transmission in this space.

A study on work characteristics and morbidity pattern of coal mine workers in South India

Background: Globally, coal mining is one of the dangerous occupations which leads to hazardous effects to coal mine workers due to production and dispersion of coal dust. These workers face more survival and working pressure than normal workers. Hypertension, diabetes and chronic respiratory symptoms are more prevalent in coal miners than normal population. This study was conducted with the objective to know the working pattern of coal mine workers and to know their habits and morbidity pattern.Methods: A descriptive study was conducted in one of the coal mines during October 2016 to December 2017. 846 coal mine workers were included in the study.Results: 480 (56.74%) workers belong to the age group of 50-60 yrs. Present study includes 696 underground mine workers and 150 surface workers. 222 (26.23%) workers had a habit of smoking, alcohol consumption is seen in 96 (11.35%) of surface workers and 480 (56.73%) of underground workers. In present study prevalence of hypertension is 19.15%, prevalence of diabetes is 16.31% and the prevalence of symptoms of chronic respiratory disease is 28.38%.Conclusions: The current study has shown a higher prevalence of diabetes than national prevalence and showed a lesser prevalence of hypertension than national prevalence which may be probably due to other causes rather than occupational stress alone. Morbidity is more than the normal population hence health education is done among workers regarding chronic diseases and their risk factors.

Reliability and validity of the Chinese version of Connor-Davidson resilience scale among coal miners / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective To examine the reliability and validity of the Connor-Davidson resilience scale (CD-RISC) among coal miners,and explore factors structure and essence. Methods A questionnaire survey was conducted among 731 coal miners by using CD-RISC,Maslach burnout inventory( MBI-GS) and general self-efficacy scale( GSES). Results Twenty-five items of CD-RISC were retained based on the re-sults of exploratory factor analysis,including three factors of stress resistance,sense of competence and optim-ism. CD-RISC factors were significantly correlated with each other,and the correlation coefficient ranged from 0. 623 to 0. 777(P<0. 01). There was also a significant correlation between CD-RISC factors and total score, and the correlation coefficient ranged from 0. 837 to 0. 939(P<0. 01). The fitting index of confirmatory factor analysis were χ2/df=3. 76<5,GFI=0. 884,CFI=0. 909,AGFI=0. 862>0. 8,RMSEA=0. 065,proved that the measured data fitted well with the hypothesized three-factor model. Internal consistency reliability coeffi-cient of the total scale,stress resistance,sense of competence and optimism factors were 0. 942,0. 920,0. 868 and 0. 765,repectively. The CD-RISC scale was positively correlated with GSES and negatively correlated with MBI-GS and its factors named emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. Conclusion The CD-RISC of 25 items for coal miners possesses good reliability and validity.

Association between dust exposure and the risk of hypertension of male coal miners in Henan Province / 中华预防医学杂志

Objective@#To explore the association between dust exposure and the incidence of hypertension in male coal miners.@*Methods@#Using the method of retrospective cohort study,a hypertension cohort of colliery in Henan Province was established in January 2006. From 2006 to 2017,all the male coal miners in a colliery who were exposed to dust were selected into the exposure group including tunneling, mining,auxiliary and combining workers, and workers from administrative logistics departments who were not exposed to dust were selected into the control group. The eligible participants should satisfy following conditions: working more than one year, with clear and complete record of occupation change, and with complete archives and reliable diagnosis of occupational health surveillance. The exclusion criteria of participants were with hypertension at the baseline of study or with heart,liver,kidney diseases and malignant tumors. A total of 12 647 participants were enrolled in this study (11 663 in the exposure group and 984 in the control group). The follow-up period was from January 2006 to December 2017,with a total follow-up of 89 259.75 person-years. Questionnaires and physical measurements were used to collect general demographic characteristics, occupational exposure history and occupational health surveillance data of all participants. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the association between the dust exposure and the incidence of hypertension.@*Results@#During the follow-up period, 2 549 new-onset hypertension patients were identified with an incidence density of hypertension about 2 855.71 per 100 000 person-years. The incidence density of hypertension was 2 967.58 per 100 000 person-years in the exposure group, and 1 643.85 per 100 000 person-years in the control group. The results of multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model showed that after the adjustment of marriage, age, smoking, alcohol drinking and body mass index,the risk of hypertension was higher in the exposure group compared with the control group (HR=1.692, 95%CI: 1.410-2.032). Further analysis showed that compared with workers from administrative logistics departments,the risk of hypertension in tunneling,mining and auxiliary working was 1.629(1.345-1.973),1.677(1.374-2.046) and 1.782(1.475-2.151),respectively.@*Conclusion@#Dust exposure may increase the risk of hypertension in male coal miners.

Relationship between occupational stress and occupational musculoskeletal disorders in coal miners / 中国职业医学

OBJECTIVE: To explore the relationship between occupational stress and occupational musculoskeletal disorders( OMD) in coal miners. METHODS: A total of 362 coal miners were selected through cluster sampling method. The prevalence of OMD was investigated by the Nordic Standardized Questionnaires for Musculoskeletal Disorders( Chinese version). The Job Content Questionnaire and Effort Reward Imbalance Questionnaire were used to assess the occupational stress and depression of coal miners was determined by the Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. RESULTS: The prevalence of OMD in coal miners was 63. 5%. There were 45. 9%( 166/362) of coal miners suffered from occupational stress with job demand-control model imbalance and 62. 4%( 226/362) of coal miners have occupational stress with effortreward model imbalance. The multiple logistic non-conditional regression analysis showed that the longer service length with exposure to occupational hazard factors,the more working days per week,the lower job contents and technical decisionmaking power,the higher the occupational stress with effort-reward imbalance,and the higher the depression and the higher the risk of OMD( P < 0. 05). CONCLUSION: Occupational stress and depression are both risk factors of OMD in coal miners.

Prevalencia de la sintomatología respiratoria en trabajadores mineros del municipio de Socotá, Boyacá, 2017 / Prevalence of respiratory symptomatology in miners in the muni-cipality of Socotá, Boyacá, 2017 / Prevalência de sintomas respiratórios em trabalhadores da mine-ração no município de Socotá, Boyacá, 2017

Introducción. La minería se ha relacionado con problemas de salud de predominio respiratorio, causados por la exposición al carbón y a los diversos componentes que permanecen suspendidos en el aire de las minas, los cuales son un riesgo para contraer enfermedades de predominio respiratorio que clási-camente se manifiestan por tos, expectoración, hemoptisis y dolor en el pecho, entre otros síntomas. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de la sintomatología respiratoria en los trabajadores mineros del municipio de Socotá (Boyacá) en diciembre de 2017.Metodología. Se llevó a cabo un estudio de tipo observacional, descriptivo y de corte transversal. Se in-cluyeron 794 trabajadores para tamizar síntomas indicativos de algún trastorno respiratorio importante.Resultados. Hubo predominio del grupo de edad de 36 a 45 años, con 240 (30,23 %) individuos. El grupo más sintomático fue el grupo B, con 48 a 69 meses de trabajo. La prevalencia de personas con sintomatología respiratoria fue de 5 % (n=40). El síntoma más prevalente fue la fatiga (n=134; 16,88 %). Al hacer una regresión logística multivariada dividida por una estratificación en meses de trabajo y hacer la comparación de toda la población contra el grupo B (48 a 96 meses), los síntomas de pérdida de peso, sudoración y dolor en pecho muestran una relación estadísticamente significativa. Conclusiones. La prevalencia de los sintomáticos respiratorios fue baja (n=40; 5 %) en esta población. Sin embargo, la regresión dio el indicio de que a mayor tiempo de exposición laboral, aumenta la aparición de síntomas en los trabajadores.

Introduction. Mining has been related to respiratory health problems, caused by exposure to carbon and various air suspended components that remain in mines, this particulate material increments the risk to contract respiratory diseases, classically manifest by cough, expectoration, hemoptysis and chest pain, and other symptoms.Objective. To determine the prevalence of respiratory symptoms in mining workers of Socotá City (Boyacá) on December 2017.Methods. An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out. 794 workers were included to screen symptoms indicative of an important respiratory disorder, giving great importance to the definition of respiratory symptoms.Results. There was predominance of age group between 36 to 45 years (240 individuals, 30.23%). Most symptomatic group was B group, who had 48 to 69 months working. The prevalence of respi-ratory was 5% (n = 40). The most prevalent symptom was fatigue 16.88% (n = 134), When doing a multivariate logistic regression divided by a stratification in months of work and making the comparison of whole population against group B (48 to 96 months), the symptoms of weight loss, sweating and chest pain show a statistically significant relationship.Conclusions. Respiratory symptoms prevalence was low, about 5% (n = 40) in this population. However, the regression gave an indication that appearance of symptoms is proportional to time of occupational exposure.

Introdução. A mineração tem sido relacionada a problemas de saúde de predominância respiratória, causados pela exposição ao carbono e os vários componentes que permanecem suspensos no ar das minas, que são um risco para contrair doenças de predominância respiratória que se manifestam pela tosse, expectoração, hemoptise e dor no peito, entre outros sintomas.Objetivo. Determinar a prevalência de sintomas respiratórios nos trabalhadores da mineração do município de Socotá (Boyacá) em dezembro de 2017.Materiais e métodos. Foi levado a cabo um estudo observacional, descritivo, transversal. Foram in-cluídos 794 trabalhadores para procurar sintomas indicativos de um distúrbio respiratório significativo.Resultados. Houve predomínio da faixa etária de 36 a 45 anos, com 240 (30,23%) indivíduos. O grupo mais sintomático foi o grupo B, com 48 a 69 meses de trabalho. A prevalência de pessoas com sintomas respiratórios foi de 5% (n = 40). O sintoma mais prevalente foi a fadiga (n = 134, 16,88%). Ao fazer a regressão logística multivariada dividida por uma estratificação em meses de trabalho e fazer a comparação de toda a população contra o grupo B (48 a 96 meses), os sintomas de perda de peso, sudorese e dor torácica mostram uma relação estatisticamente significativa.Conclusões. A prevalência de sintomas respiratórios foi baixa (n = 40, 5%) nessa população. No entanto, a regressão indicou que a maior tempo de exposição ocupacional aumenta o aparecimento de sintomas nos trabalhadores

The analysis of results of low-dose chest CT of coal miners with over 20-year exposure / 实用放射学杂志

Objective To evaluate the application value of low-dose CT (LDCT) in physical examination for coal miners with different exposure time.Methods The consecutive three-year imaging data of 972 coal miners with over 20-year exposure were retrospectively reviewed.All miners were divided into 3 groups according to different exposure time,including 317 cases with less than 10 years,299 cases with 10-20 years and 356 cases with more than 20 years.All subjects underwent LDCT examination every year during three consecutive years.Results Baseline LDCT:As the exposure time was prolonged (with less than 10 years,10-20 years and more than 20 years),the number of coal miners has increased with non-calcified pulmonary nodules,interstitial pulmonary lesions,clinically cured or stable stage of pulmonary tuberculosis,pulmonary calcification and pulmonary fibrous stripes,but without statistically significant difference.The detection rates of lung bullae,aorta and coronary artery sclerosis were also increased mildly,with the prolonged exposure time.There was no significant correlation between exposure time and detection rates of bronchiectasis,pulmonary inflammatory lesions,lymph node enlargement or calcification,pleural lesions.The exposure time of 6 cases of malignant nodules and 2 cases of active tuberculosis was more than 10 years.During a two-year follow-up using LDCT scan,there were no significant changes in most of intrapulmonary,pleural and mediastinal lesions.Neither were in pulmonary nodules less than or equal to 4 mm.Three pulmonary nodules with 4-8 mm diameters were enlarged.Most of the inflammatory lesions have changed in size.Conclusion The LDCT scan has a certain value for chest physical examination of the coal miners with different exposure time.It is very necessary to screen the high-risk population of coal miners with exposure time of more than 10 years using LDCT.LDCT reexamination has significant value for pulmonary nodules and inflammatory lesions with diameter of more than 4 mm.Most of intrapulmonary,pleural and mediastinal lesions have no obvious change in the short term,and make an annual reexamination unnecessary,neither does a negative baseline LDCT.

A new species of Leurocephala Davis & Mc Kay (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) from the Azapa Valley, northern Chilean Atacama Desert, with notes on life-history

ABSTRACT The Neotropical micromoth genus Leurocephala Davis & Mc Kay, 2011 (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) was originally described to include only the type species, L. schinusae Davis & Mc Kay, 2011, whose leaf miner larvae are associated with Anacardiaceae in Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay. An integrative analysis including morphology, life history and DNA barcode sequences revealed that specimens collected on Schinus molle L. (Anacardiaceae) in the coastal valleys of the Atacama Desert of northern Chile belong to a second species of this formerly monotypic genus. Adults of Leurocephala chilensis Vargas & Moreira sp. nov. are herein described and illustrated in association with the immature stages and life history, and corresponding phylogenetic relationships are assessed based on DNA barcode sequences. This finding provides the first record of Leurocephala from west of the Andes Range, expanding remarkably its geographic range. It is suggested that the extent of diversity within Leurocephala is much greater and that variation in geographic factors and host plant use may have modeled it, an evolutionary hypothesis that should be assessed in further studies.

The health impact assessment of mercury on artisanal and small scale miners and revealed chronic mercury intoxicated patients / Монголын Анагаах Ухаан

INTRODUCTION:In connection with request and financial assistance of Swiss Development Agency ‘’Mercury exposureand health impact assessment study among small scale miners in mercury free technology, wasconducted by researchers of Toxicology division of NCPH.GOAL:To determine mercury exposure level in biological samples of local small scale miners from mercury freetechnology introduced area. To reveal chronic mercury intoxicated patients,MATERIALS AND METHODS:Totally 147 artisanal miners from 33 cooperatives for small scale mining from Bayan-Îvoo soum ofBayankhongor, Bornuur sum of Tuv, Bayangol, Mandal and Tunkhel sum of Selenge province areparticipated in this study and the study was performed by cross sectional study methods during April toDecember, 2014.Over all 147 participants were in the first part of study, 60.5% out of 147 (89 participants) were in secondparts, and another 35.4% (52 people) were participated to the third parts of study. The participants wereundergone in to toxicological, dermatological and neurological examinations and the WHO guidance formercury exposure determination was followed in this study.RESULTS:On the results of all testing we revealed that there were 2 cases of chronic mercury intoxicated patientsfrom each Bayangol Bornuur soum, 2 from Mandal soum, and 3 from Bayanovoo soum.Overall 7 patientswere diagnosed as chronic mercury intoxicated and it comprised 4.7%of (n=147) all involved participants.We have observed that average height of total medical examination number was (2.9) in Bornuur soum.It indicated that there will have higher number of patients would exist in Bornuur soum than others.Ourstudy result has shown that neurological symptoms like tremor and imbalance were more diagnosedamong participants from Mandal and Bayngol soums. It implies that the health of the small scale minersfrom this soum more affected and needed to be investigating further.CONCLUSIONS:Mercury is still being used among artisanal gold miners even thoughit is still illegal. Further medicalevaluation and assistance needed to be taken for newly diagnosed 7 patients.

Intervención en alimentación y nutrición para mineros con factores de riesgo cardiovascular, basada en la investigación formativa / Food and nutrition intervention for miners with cardiovascular risk factors, based on formative research

We designed and implemented an intervention to improve the diet of 94 miners with cardiovascular risk of a mining company. The diagnosis included a qualitative study of the desires, motivations and barriers that workers have to lead a healthy life, a survey of food consumption and checking the institutional food service. Anthropometric and biochemical data were provided by the company. Based on the results, the intervention included improving the supply of healthy foods and conducting the communication campaign "Minero 100% Filete", workshops and nutritional counseling for them and their families. After 8 months of intervention we found a significant increase in the consumption of fruits and vegetables and a decreased consumption of fried, cured and red meats. There was no significant change in BMI. However, there were significant decreases in systolic blood pressure, blood glucose levels, triglycerides and an increase in HDL cholesterol. Although the program was well received by the workers, it is acknowledged that there are significant adverse factors which merit improvement.

Se diseñó e implementó una intervención de 8 meses para mejorar la alimentación de 94 mineros con factores de riesgo cardiovascular. El diagnóstico incluyó un estudio cualitativo de los deseos, motivaciones y barreras de los trabajadores, una encuesta de consumo de alimentos y la revisión del aporte de la alimentación institucional. Los datos antropométricos y bioquímicos fueron proporcionados por la compañía minera. Con esta base, se solicitó mejorar la oferta de alimentos saludables y se realizó la campaña comunicacional "Minero 100% Filete", consejería nutricional, y talleres con las familias. Al finalizar la intervención se observó un aumento significativo del consumo de frutas y verduras y una disminución del consumo de frituras, cecinas y carnes rojas. No hubo cambios significativos en el IMC. Se registraron disminuciones significativas en la presión arterial sistólica, glicemia, triglicéridos y un aumento del colesterol HDL. El programa fue bien aceptado por los trabajadores, pero se reconocen factores ambientales adversos importantes de mejorar.

Indicadores antropométricos e hemodinâmicos de risco cardiovascular e fatores associados à pressão arterial elevada em mineradores / Anthropometric and hemodynamic indicators of cardiovascular risk andassociated factor with high blood pressure in miners

A obesidade e a hipertensão arterial são tidas como fatores de risco para doenças cardiovasculares e a sua prevalência parece diferir de acordo com a atividade profissional. Desse modo, o objetivo do presente estudo foi estimar a prevalência de fatores de risco cardiovascular em funcionários de uma mineradora e verificar os fatores associados à pressão arterial (PA) elevada. Para tanto, 197 voluntários (61,4% homens) com idade entre 20 e 60 anos, todos funcionários de uma empresa de mineração, foram avaliados quanto ao índice de massa corporal e PA. O excesso de peso (sobrepeso + obesidade) e os valores pressóricos elevados (pré-hipertenso + hipertenso) foram observados em 76,1% e 46,1% da amostra, respectivamente, sendo a prevalência de pré-hipertensos maior (p <0,05) nos homens. A probabilidade de ter PA elevada foi maior no sexo masculino (11%), e naqueles com idade superior a 40 anos (13%) e com excesso de peso (13%). Em conclusão, uma parcela expressiva dos mineradores encontra-se em risco para o desenvolvimento de doenças cardiovasculares. Ademais, as medidas contra a hipertensão arterial devem ser direcionadas especialmente aos funcionários do sexo masculino e aqueles com idade superior a 40 anos, sendo a prevenção e o controle do excesso de peso as principais medidas terapêuticas a ser adotadas.

Obesity and hypertension are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and their prevalence seems to varyaccording to profession. In this scenario, the aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of cardiovascularrisk factors in employees of a mining company and to identify associated factors with high blood pressure(BP). To this end, 197 volunteers (61.4% male) aged between 20 and 60, all employees of a mining companyhad their body mass index and BP measured. Excessive weight (overweight + obesity) and high BP values(pre-hypertension + hypertension) were observed in 76.1% and 46.1% of the sample, respectively; and theprevalence of pre-hypertensive individuals was higher (p <0.05) in men. The likelihood of having high BP washigher in males (11%), in those above than 40 years old (13%) and overweight (13%). In conclusion, a significantportion of the miners assessed is at risk for developing cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, measures againsthypertension must be directed to male employees and those above than 40 years old. Overweight preventionand control are the main therapeutic measures to be adopted.

Larval control of Anopheles (Nyssorhinchus) darlingi using granular formulation of Bacillus sphaericus in abandoned gold-miners excavation pools in the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest

INTRODUCTION: Use of a Bacillus sphaericus based mosquito larvicide was evaluated as an intervention for malaria vector control at a mining site in Amapá, Brazil. Impacts on larval and adult densities of the primary vector Anopheles darlingi were measured over the course of a 52 week study period. METHODS: In Calçoene, State of Amapá, gold mining activity occurs in 19 mining sites in gold-miners of Lourenço. Large pools are formed in mining sites and naturally colonized by Anopheles darlingi. During one year, the impact of applications of VectoLex(r) CG to these larval sources was evaluated. Applications of 20kg/ha were made as needed, based on 10 immature (3rd, 4th instars and pupae) surveillance of health and established thresholds. RESULTS: One hundred percent initial control was observed 48h after each treatment. The pools received from 2-10 (5.3±1.6) treatments during the year. The average re-treatment interval in productive pools was 9.4±4.3 weeks. During weeks 3-52 of the study, mean density of late stage larvae was 78% and pupae were 93% lower in the treated pools than in untreated pools (p< 0.0001, n=51) while reduction of adult mosquitoes was 53% in comparison to the untreated area during the last five months of the study, which were the rainy season (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: VectoLex(r) CG reduced immature Anopheles darlingi infestation levels during the entire study period, and reduced adult mosquito populations during the rainy season. .

The Experience of Miners Relocated to Alternative Positions due to Silicosis in the Andean of CODELCO, Chile, 2010

OBJECTIVES: To understand the personal experiences of mine workers that have experienced job relocation due to silicosis at the Andina Division of Corporacion Nacional del Cobre (CODELCO), Chile. The purpose of the study was to provide useful information for the development of new local, business and public policies for the care of workers with silicosis. METHODS: A qualitative study based on a practical case study of 5 workers. The information was collected by means of structured individual interviews. The method of analysis was phenomenology. RESULTS: The corporal axis was the most commented upon. It included awareness of the illness, body pains, fatigue, and antagonistic mood disorders (sadness, or the difficulty in finding meaning in life). As far as personal relationships, there was evidence of strong relationships with family, coworkers and friends, as well as extended family. Over all, the experience of relocation was positive with periods of impatience and uncertainty. The job reassignment provided a new and pleasant context for the relocated workers and in the process improved their perception of their quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: A multidisciplinary team should attend mine workers relocated because of silicosis by addressing the mental and physical aspects of their disease, along with the integral participation of close family members. It is suggested that this investigation be maintain over time to record the personal experiences in the medium-term, adding new cases with the intention of shedding more light on the phenomenon being studied. As a preventive measure, continual workshops are needed on the proper use of respiratory protection in addition, a group of monitors is required.

Survey on basic data of risk estimation of lung cancer among non-uranium miners in China / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective To investigate the basic data of risk estimation of lung cancer among non-uranium miners in China.Methods 2836 workers from 24 mines in 9 provinces/regions were face-to-face interviewed to collect information including age at exposure,exposure duration,cigarette smoking among others.Results Age of the investigated non-uranium miners ranged from 17 to 72(36.9±8.0)years.The miners received low and poor education,3% of them were illiterate,58% with primary and middle school education,only 7% with junior college and higher education.Seventy-five percent of the uranium miners are migrant rural workers.Ethnic minority miners accoungted for 16% of all the investigated miners.Among the migrant rural workers age at initial exposure was estimated to be 29.6±8.0 years.By the time of the investigation,46.7% of the miners had worked in the mine for five years and longer,working years in the mine was 6.7±6.8 years with a median of 4.1years.3.4% of the non-uranium miners began the initial radon exposure in mines before their 18 years of old.17.5% of the investigated miners reported working more than 8 h every working day.Among the males,58.0% were current smokers with a median of 16 cigarettes per day.Age to begin the cigarette smoking was 20 years on average.Current smoking rate was age-dependent,the rate as high as 69.2% for the males aged 15-19 years.Current smoking rate was significantly statistically lower in coal mines than that in other mines,49.0% vs 62.5%.Compared with other miners,more frequent mechanical ventilations were reported by coal miners,Conclusions In China non-uranium mines,75% were migrant rural workers,by the time of the investigation about half of them had worked in the mines for at least five years.Non-uranium miners began their mining at 30 years on average,with a very small percentage of 3%,exposed to the mining radon before their 18 years.Current cigarette smoking rate in non-uranium male miners was the same as the general male population in China.

Chromosomal aberrations in peripheral lymphocytes from male native miners working in the Peruvian Andes

We analyzed the frequency of chromosomal aberrations in peripheral lymphocytes from underground miners from the Casapalca (n = 8, mean age = 45 y, range = 36 y to 55 y) and Bellavista (n = 8, mean age = 28 y, range 23 y to 34 y) high-altitude mining camps in the Peruvian Andes. This population was occupationally exposed to heavy metals such as lead and zinc as well as diesel emission particles, organic solvents and mine dust. The control groups consisted of individuals from a high altitude farming community in the Peruvian village of Tinco (n = 8, mean age = 37 y, range = 25 y to 52 y) and the sea level city of Lima (n = 14, mean age = 26 y, range = 20 y to 35 y). All individuals were male native Peruvians. A significantly higher incidence (1.88 percent, p < 0.05) of chromosomal aberrations (chromatid deletions and breaks, chromosome breaks and acentric fragments) were detected in lymphocytes from miners at the Casapalca camp as compared to miners from the Bellavista camp (0.5 percent, chromatid deletions and acentric fragments only) and the Lima sea level (0.07 percent, chromatid deletions only) and Tinco high altitude (no aberrations) controls. These results suggest that male native Peruvians occupationally exposed to underground mining activity have an increased frequency of chromosomal aberrations, which could be related to both age and exposure time. The increased chromosomal damage observed in the mining populations studied may be attributable to the complex mixture of genotoxic agents to which the miners may have been exposed.