An Analysis of Factors associated with Annual Trends in Childbirth Plans by Female Workers

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to identify factors of Korean female workers' childbirth plans and to establish measures to improve the childbirth plan. METHODS: Study subjects were selected part in the 1st, 3rd, and 5th year surveys of the Korean Longitudinal Panel Survey of Women and Families. The selection criteria were as follows: women who had a spouse; were salaried workers currently employed for the last one month; belonged to a childbearing age; and had less than 3 children. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate factors associated with childbirth plans. RESULTS: Childbirth plans by female workers decreased each year. The analysis of associated factors revealed that age, number of children were associated factors in all years. In addition, education, satisfaction about dividing household chores with the husband, and satisfaction about working environment were associated with the lack of planning for childbirth in female workers in the 1st survey year. Satisfaction about dividing household chores with the husband, family-work conflict, and satisfaction about the potential for personal development were associated factors in the 3rd survey year. Finally, family-work conflict, satisfaction about employment stability, and satisfaction about job task at work were associated factors in the 5th survey year. CONCLUSION: It is important to know the measures focusing on the lack of planning for childbirth, and hence these factors can be improved by assessing in general, family, and occupational characteristics. Additionally, employer policies regarding women employees who are pregnant or have children at home need to be reviewed.

Factors related to the Identification of Middle-Aged Women Who are Disadvantaged by Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease

PURPOSE: To investigate factors related to cardio-cerebrovascular disease and groups disadvantaged by it in Korean middle-aged women, using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). METHODS: The present study was conducted with 1,627 middle-aged women, aged 40 to 64 years, who participated in the 7th (2016) Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. RESULTS: Cardio-cerebrovascular disease among middle-aged women was associated with quality of life, menopause, diabetes mellitus, body mass index, and family history of hypertension. The incidence of cardio-cerebrovascular disease in middle-aged women was found to be the most prevalent in women who have entered menopause, have a family history of hypertension, and have a body mass index greater than 30.0 kg/m². CONCLUSION: This study classifies the subjects according to the risk level of each disadvantaged group for cardio-cerebrovascular disease prevention and management in middle-aged women. The results provide evidence to support a tailored cardio- cerebrovascular disease prevention and management program based on the related factors of disadvantaged groups and to establish strategies in educational and practical aspects.

Analysis of Cost Benefit Related to Appointing a Health Care Manager in the Construction Industry / 한국직업건강간호학회지

PURPOSE: The construction worker has diverse harmful factors such as noise, dust, and dealing with chemicals. Therefore this research aimed to examine the necessity of appointing a health manager in the construction industry by examining the cost-benefit analysis when the construction industry appoints a health manager. METHODS: In order to calculate the healthcare staff employment cost and the benefits from their activities in 1,425 construction companies with the staff of 300 or more people during 2011, this study analyzed existing data and existing research data, as well as national data. RESULTS: Total annual costs were 99,920,070,900 won and total annual benefits were 324,807,182,625 won. Benefits were found to be 224,887,111,725 won exceeding costs. Benefit/cost ratio resulting from appointing a health manager in the construction industry workplaces was 3.25 times. CONCLUSION: The findings of this research can be used as the base data to make rational decision to positively encourage the employment of healthcare staff in construction companies pursuant to relevant laws.