Occupational Tasks Influencing Lung Function and Respiratory Symptoms Among Charcoal-Production Workers: A Time-Series Study

BACKGROUND: Tasks involved in traditional charcoal production expose workers to various levels of charcoal dust and wood smoke. This study aimed to identify specific tasks influencing lung function and respiratory symptoms. METHODS: Interviews, direct observation, and task/symptom checklists were used to collect data from 50 charcoal-production workers on 3 nonwork days followed by 11 workdays. The peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) was measured four times per day. RESULTS: The PEFR was reduced and the prevalence of respiratory symptoms increased over the first 6–7 workdays. The PEFR increased until evening on nonwork days but not on workdays. Loading the kiln and collecting charcoal from within the kiln markedly reduced the PEFR and increased the odds of respiratory symptoms. CONCLUSION: Tasks involving entry into the kiln were strongly associated with a short-term drop in the PEFR and the occurrence of respiratory symptoms, suggesting a need for the use of protective equipment and/or the operation of an effective kiln ventilation system.

Influencing factors of metabolic syndrome among male workers in several industries in Guangzhou City / 中国职业医学

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome(MetS) and its related influencing factors among male workers in several industries in Guangzhou City.METHODS: A total of 2 987 male workers were selected by convenience sampling method and the occupational health physical exam data from 2012 to 2015 was collected.The MetS was diagnosed according to the diagnostic criteria proposed by the Chinese Medical Association Diabetes Association.The analysis of correlation factors was conducted by the generalized estimating equation method.RESULTS: The diastolic blood pressure of subjects increased year by year(P<0.01) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C) decreased year by year(P<0.01) from 2012 to 2015,but the changes of body mass index,systolic blood pressure and levels of fasting plasma glucose,triglyceride didn't increase or decrease over time.The prevalence of high blood pressure,high glycemia,high TG,low HDL-C and MetS were found to increase year by year(P<0.01) from 2012 to 2015.The generalized estimating equation analysis results showed service length,family history(hypertension and/or diabetes),regular alcohol consumption,frequent smoking,oily diet and meat-rich diet were the risk factors of MetS(P<0.05) after adjusting the confounding factors of age.CONCLUSION: The incidence of MetS in male workers in Guangzhou City is increasing year by year.The service lengh,family history(hypertension and/or diabetes),regular alcohol consumption,regular smoking,oily diet and meat-rich diet are associated with the prevalence of MetS in this population.

Factors Affecting the Preparation for Later Life According to Age in Production Workers / 산업간호학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that influenced the preparation for later life of the age group of 30s, 40s, and 50s in production workers. METHODS: The participants for this study were 320 men working in 2 workspaces of Ulsan city. The data was collected from May to July, 2010 using structured questionnaires. Chi-square, One way ANOVA, Duncan test, Pearson's Correlation Coefficient and multiple regression with the SPSS WIN 17.0 program were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences among 30s, 40s, and 50s workers regarding the preparation for later life, health promoting behavior, knowledge and attitude of cerebrocardiovascular (CVD) diseases. 50s workers were significantly more higher than 30s and 40s regarding the preparation for later life, health promoting behavior, cognition and attitude of CVD diseases. The model including variables related to the preparation for later life explained variance of 42.3% of 30s, 36.0% of 40s, and 28.5% of 50s workers. Finally, cognition of CVD diseases and social support were predictors in explaining the level of the preparation for later life among production workers. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of the study, nursing interventions should be developed to improve the preparation for later life of production workers according to age differences.