Bridging vision gaps: a comprehensive study of the RAAHI programme for improving truckers' eye health in India

Background: Visual impairment presents a significant public health concern globally, with a notable impact on individuals' quality of life. Despite efforts to address this issue, unmet eye health needs persist, particularly in vulnerable populations such as truck drivers in low and middle-income countries like India. The RAAHI (National truckers eye health programme) initiative aims to fill this gap by providing essential eye care services in India. Methods: This research manuscript delves into the journey of the RAAHI programme from 2017 to 2022, assessing its achievements, challenges, and lessons learned. A mixed-methods approach involving a secondary review of literature, programme records, and stakeholder interactions was employed. Quantitative analysis of beneficiary demographics and service utilization trends was complemented by qualitative insights from beneficiary feedback and stakeholder interviews. Results: RAAHI demonstrated a significant presence across 54 locations, screening over 540,000 beneficiaries between 2018 and June 2022. The programme primarily targeted truck drivers, addressing their unmet eye health needs and raising awareness about prevalent health conditions. Beneficiary feedback highlighted overall satisfaction with RAAHI services, emphasizing the programme's structured approach and immediate access to quality spectacles. Furthermore, qualitative analysis suggests RAAHI's success enriching the programme's effectiveness and client-centric approach. Conclusions: These findings offer valuable insights into addressing visual impairment among vulnerable populations and advocating for the integration of eye care into public health initiatives. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of sustained efforts and collaborative partnerships in ensuring the success and scalability of programmes like RAAHI.

Analysis on the current situation and influencing factors of occupational burnout among bus drivers in Wuhu City / 沈阳医学院学报

Objective:To investigate the current situation of occupational burnout among bus drivers in Wuhu City and analyze its influencing factors.Methods:A survey was conducted in 1 388 bus drivers in Wuhu City from Sep to Nov 2022 using the general information questionnaire,the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey(MBI-GS),and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI).Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the influencing factors of occupational burnout in bus drivers.Spearman correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between occupational burnout and sleep quality.Results:Among 1 388 bus drivers,642(46.3%)were positive for occupational burnout,and 139(10.0%)were found to have sleep disorders.Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that longer bus driving experience(OR=1.873,95%CI:1.325-2.648),lower monthly income(OR=0.376,95%CI:0.158-0.774),higher smoking frequency(OR=1.313,95%CI:1.188-2.163),higher drinking frequency(OR=1.342,95%CI:1.018-1.769),lower weekly physical exercise frequency(OR=0.367,95%CI:0.243-0.555),and poor sleep quality(OR=13.110,95%CI:7.284-23.594)were the influencing factors of bus driver occupational burnout(P＜0.05).Spearman correlation analysis showed that the total score of occupational burnout and its dimension scores were positively correlated with the total score of sleep quality and its dimension scores(rs=0.12-0.83,P＜0.01).Conclusion:The problem of occupational burnout among bus drivers in Wuhu City is relatively serious,and a part of people have sleep problems,which should be paid great attention to and active measures should be taken in time.

Analysis of occupational health literacy level and its influencing factors among drivers in transportation industry / 中国职业医学

ObjectiveTo analyze the current occupational health literacy (OHL) level and its influencing factors among drivers in transportation industry. Methods A total of 880 drivers of taxi companies, passenger transport companies, freight companies and online booking companies were selected as the research subjects using the judgment sampling method. The Occupational Health Literacy Questionnaire of National Key Populations was used to conduct a survey on their OHL levels via online questionnaires, and the influencing factors of OHL were analyzed. Results The OHL level of the research subjects was 54.32% (478/880). The OHL levels in the dimensions of occupational health legal knowledge, basic knowledge of occupational health protection, basic skills of occupational health protection, healthy working style and behavior were 55.34%, 79.55%, 58.30% and 46.25%, respectively. The results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the OHL levels of drivers in passenger transport and freight companies were higher than that in taxi companies (all P<0.01). The OHL levels of drivers in private enterprises, foreign-funded enterprises, and other enterprises were lower than those in state-owned enterprises (all P<0.05). The OHL levels of drivers in large enterprises were lower than that of drivers in micro-enterprises (P<0.05). The OHL levels of drivers worked >5-10 years and >10 years were lower than that of drivers working 1-5 years (all P<0.05). Conclusion There is a considerable room for improvement in the OHL levels of drivers in the transportation industry. The category, economic type, and scale of the employing unit and driving work year of the current position are the main influencing factors of OHL levels.

Uma metassíntese das transformações no trabalho de taxistas em tempos de uberização / A metasynthesis of labor changes for taxi drivers in times of uberization

Este estudo parte da Psicologia Social do Trabalho e se propõe a analisar como são referidas nas publicações científicas latino-americanas as modificações no trabalho de motoristas de táxi em função da entrada no mercado do serviço de transporte de passageiros por motoristas de aplicativos, buscando mais especificamente discutir as diferenças e os elementos laborais comuns a essas duas categorias profissionais. Trata-se de uma metassíntese, para a qual quatro fases foram desenvolvidas: exploração, refinamento, descrição e análise. Inicialmente, as informações obtidas em uma busca sistemática foram organizadas em três categorias descritivas principais: informações metodológicas, perspectiva teórica adotada e principais temas abordados. Esse mapeamento auxiliou a compreender como se configuram as produções bibliográficas consideradas. Um resultado significativo encontrado na etapa de análise foi que o material localizado não abordou efetivamente as transformações no trabalho de motoristas de táxi. Desse modo, tornou-se imperativo ultrapassar as informações encontradas nesse material, sendo necessária sua articulação com outras obras que, em alguma medida, abordavam aspectos da atualidade do trabalho de taxistas, visando refletir sobre como tais aspectos podem estar relacionados às transformações recentes no mundo laboral, as quais encontram no fenômeno da uberização uma caracterização fulcral sobre o trabalho na contemporaneidade. Assim, foi propiciada uma ampliação do olhar reflexivo sobre o que é trabalhar como taxista atualmente, dado que as mudanças engendradas pelas novas tecnologias e seu uso em prol da criação de novas formas de precarização laboral incidem também sobre essa categoria profissional e produzem efeitos sobre seu cotidiano de trabalho e sua subjetividade

Based on Social Psychology of Work, this study analyzes how Latin American scientific publications refer to labor changes in taxi service given the entry of app drivers into the passenger transport service market, seeking to discuss the differences and labor elements common to these two professional categories. A metasynthesis was conducted in four phases: exploration, refinement, description and analysis. Firstly, data were systematically searched and organized into three main descriptive categories: methodological information, theoretical perspective and main topics found. Analysis went beyond the information found in the selected material, as it did not effectively address the labor changes in taxi service. As such, the authors sought to articulate other works that to somewhat addressed current aspects of taxi service work and reflect on how such aspects may be related to recent labor transformations, namely the phenomenon of uberization. This provided a broader reflective perspective on what it means to work as a taxi driver today, as the changes promoted by new technologies and their use in favor of creating new forms of precarious work also reflect on this professional category, affecting their daily work and

Simulação realítsica como estratégia de treinamento para equipe de saúde

Objetivo: Avaliar a simulação realística como estratégia de capacitação de técnicos de enfermagem e condutores de ambulância na avaliação primária dos traumas. Método: Estudo quase experimental, tipo antes e depois, abordagem quantitativa, desenvolvido entre dezembro de 2021 a março de 2022. A população constitui-se de 98 profissionais de 14 municípios que compõem o Complexo Regulador do Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência, da região norte do Estado do Paraná. Foi aplicado um teste de conhecimento, com 10 questões, antes e depois da simulação. Os dados foram avaliados em relação à medida central e dispersão. Os acertos, no pré e pós-teste, foram comparados por percentual. A média e desvio padrão dos acertos foram avaliados empregando o teste de Shapiro-Wilk para identificação da distribuição normal, ou não, dos dados. Também foi realizado o teste de Wilcoxon para identificação de diferença entre as médias de acertos entre os momentos de pesquisa. Empregou-se o índice de significância de 0,050. Resultados: Das perguntas propostas, aquelas sobre cinemática do trauma, estágios da avaliação primária da vítima, planejamento do atendimento e imobilização da vítima de trauma, atendimento na avaliação e presença de choque atingiram 90% das respostas corretas esperadas após o treinamento. As perguntas sobre avaliação primária do paciente e manejo das vias aéreas também produziram resultados significativos. Conclusão: A assimilação de conhecimento através da simulação realística promoveu um incremento importante de acertos das questões.

Objetivo: Evaluar la simulación realista como estrategia de formación de técnicos de enfermería y conductores de ambulancias en la valoración primaria del trauma. Método: Estudio cuasiexperimental, tipo antes y después, enfoque cuantitativo, desarrollado entre diciembre de 2021 y marzo de 2022. La población está compuesta por 98 profesionales de 14 municipios que componen el Complejo Regulador del Servicio de Atención Móvil de Emergencia de la región norte del Estado de Paraná. Se aplicó una prueba de conocimientos, con 10 preguntas, antes y después de la simulación. Los datos fueron evaluados en relación con la medida central y dispersión. Las respuestas correctas, en el pre y postest, fueron comparadas por porcentaje. La media y la desviación estándar de las respuestas correctas se evaluaron mediante la prueba de Shapiro-Wilk para identificar la distribución normal o no de los datos. También se realizó la prueba de Wilcoxon para identificar la diferencia entre las medias de aciertos entre los momentos de la investigación. Se utilizó un índice de significación de 0.050. Resultados: De las preguntas propuestas, aquellas sobre cinemática del trauma, etapas de la valoración primaria de la víctima, planificación del cuidado e inmovilización de la víctima del trauma, atención en la valoración y presencia de shock alcanzaron el 90 % de respuestas correctas esperadas después el entrenamiento. Las preguntas sobre evaluación primaria del paciente y control de la vía aérea también arrojaron resultados significativos. Conclusión: La asimilación de conocimientos a través de la simulación realista promovió un aumento importante en las respuestas correctas a las preguntas

Objective: To assess realistic simulation as a training strategy for nursing technicians and ambulance drivers in the primary assessment of trauma cases. Method: A quasi-experimental study, before-and-after design, with a quantitative approach, conducted between December 2021 and March 2022. The study population consisted of 98 professionals from 14 municipalities within the Northern region of the State of Paraná, who are part of the Regulatory Complex of the Mobile Emergency Care Service. A knowledge test consisting of 10 questions was administered before and after the simulation. Data were analyzed in terms of central tendency and dispersion. Pre-test and post-test correct answers were compared as percentages. The mean and standard deviation of correct answers were assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test to determine whether the data followed a normal distribution. The Wilcoxon test was also employed to identify differences in mean correct answers between the research phases, with a significance level of 0.050. Results: Among the proposed questions, those related to trauma kinematics, stages of primary victim assessment, treatment planning, victim immobilization, assessment during care, and recognition of shock achieved a 90% correct response rate after the training. Questions about primary patient assessment and airway management also yielded significant results. Conclusion: The assimilation of knowledge through realistic simulation led to a significant improvement in correct answer rates for the questions

Awareness of safe transfers in ambulance drivers after road traffic accidents

Background: Today accidents are among the leading causes of death. Deaths due to road traffic accidents are increasing at an alarming rate throughout the world. Hence, safe transfers become an important aspect to deal with. Ambulance drivers being the providers for this transfer should know about safe transfers and how is it performed. Methods: A validated self-structured questionnaire consisting of 14 questions related to knowledge about safe transfers was prepared and circulated to ambulance drivers via Google forms. Ethical approval and informed consent were taken. A total of 102 participants were included in the study and descriptive data analysis was done. Results: Out of 102 participants, 10.8% of drivers had attended a road trauma first aid course, 41.2% of participants had heard about safe transfers, 98% had transferred an RTA victim, 3.9% of participants knew the right way to transfer a patient with spinal injury, 37.3% of subjects knew how to transfer fracture cases, 96% of the participants knew safest way used for transferring a patient, 47.1% drivers knew about “golden hour”, 80.3% participants knew the correct way to transfer a traumatic patient, 22.5% of subjects knew the importance of safe transfers and 99% of drivers felt the need to learn about safe transfers. Conclusions: The study concludes that there is overall less awareness about safe transfers among ambulance workers. Although the willingness to learn about safe transfers is comparatively high. There is a need to increase awareness about safe transfers in ambulance drivers

Nutritional Status and Nutrient Adequacy of Food Consumed by Commercial Drivers in Abeokuta South Local Govt Area, Ogun State, Nigeria

Introduction: The nutritional status and adequacy of nutrients in the food consumed by commercial drivers have significant implications for their overall health, well-being, and job performance. Aims: The study assessed the nutritional status and nutrient adequacy of food consumed by commercial drivers in Abeokuta South Local Government area, Ogun State. Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to carry out this study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Major Parks of Abeokuta South Local Government from November 2019 to February 2020. Methodology: The data was obtained from randomly selected three hundred (300) commercial drivers in the major parks (Asero, Ijaiye, Kuti, and Sapon) of Abeokuta South Local Government. A structured-interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain data on the respondent’s demographics and socioeconomic characteristics, anthropometrics characteristics were assessed using a standardized method by trained anthropometrists, and the dietary intake of the respondents was obtained using a validated 24-hour recall questionnaire. Data were analyzed and presented using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: All (100%) of the respondents were males with a mean age of 38.7±0.49 years. The mean height and weight of the respondents were found to be 1.68±0.86 m and 68.50±8.47 kg respectively. More than half (59.7%) of the respondents had a normal BMI, 34.3% and 0.3% were overweight and obese respectively and only a few (5.7%) were underweight. The nutrient adequacy results revealed inadequacies of Vitamin C (83.3%), Vitamin B1 (66.7%), Vitamin B6 (79.3%), Calcium (89.3%), Zinc (53.3%), and Magnesium (70.7%). Conclusion: It is concluded that overweight, obesity, and micronutrients inadequacy is prevalent among commercial drivers. Malnutrition and micronutrient inadequacy among commercial drivers should be recognized as a public health problem and strategies to improve their status and nutrient intake should be implemented.

A cross sectional study on prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors among bus drivers of Metropolitan Transport Corporation Limited, Chennai

Background: The job of bus driving is not only risky due to probable accidents and incidents but also risky due to probable health risk factors associated with the nature of bus driving. Sedentary work was done by many professional drivers and they were found to be physically inactive during their leisure time which lead to an increase in risk for obesity and hypertension. Therefore, this study was done with the aim to detect the prevalence of hypertension and its associated risk factors among metropolitan transport corporation bus drivers. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted among bus drivers of metropolitan transport corporation Limited, Chennai. The sample size obtained was 422. A multistage sampling method was used. A Validated semi-structured questionnaire containing questions on basic socio demographic particulars, lifestyle factors, past and family history and anthropometric and blood pressure measurement was done and was analyzed using SPSS 21. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was found to be 49.5%. Smoking was found in 23.2% of the respondents, tobacco and betel nut chewing in 14.7% of the respondents and 45.5% were found to consume alcohol. It was found that as age increases the prevalence of hypertension also increases which was statistically significant (p=0.001). Conclusions: This rampant disease can be prevented and managed through lifestyle modifications and medication therapy. The risk factors may be avoided by maintaining a regular physical activity, focussing on dynamic exercise, having medical checkups.

Economic Conditions Of Auto Drivers In Mysore City - An Analytical Study

The changes in socio-economic and technological factors have caused auto drivers in Mysore city, as well as other cities in India, to experience a variety of economic challenges. The current study work explores the economic issues vehicle drivers in Mysore City experience, as well as the elements that contribute to these issues. A survey of 80 Auto drivers in Mysore city served as the basis for the study. The results indicate that drivers of autos have a range of financial issues, including poor pay, high operating costs, competition from cab services that operate through apps and a lack of social security benefits. The study finishes with suggestions for legislative changes to enhance the financial circumstances of Mysore city's auto drivers. The study identifies the serious economic issues that affect Mysore city's auto drivers and makes recommendations for potential policy changes that the government may take to help them. Policymakers can guarantee that auto drivers can continue to offer residents vital transport services while also raising their level of life by addressing these issues.

Effect of teacher-led activity-based learning on road safety education among school children protocol for a mixed-methods study

Background: Road traffic injuries are the single biggest contributor of fatality among age 10 to 24 years worldwide. Also, there is no standardized education system for providing road safety education in schools. This study aims to check the effectiveness of teacher-led activity-based road safety educational intervention to the school children of age 11-15 years will improve their knowledge, attitude, self-reported practice and self-reported parent practice, compared to the existing curriculum and to find the feasibility, perception of children and teachers in implementing this intervention as a part of routine curriculum. Methods: This mixed-methods study has stratified cluster randomized trial as quantitative part and focused group discussions as qualitative part. This will be carried out in co-education English medium schools located in urban Puducherry. Study participants are school children of age 11-15 years in the class 7, 8 and 9 of the selected schools. The data will be collected using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Assessments will be done at three time points in the intervention schools and at baseline and end-line in the control schools. The module for intervention will be developed by principal investigator and provided to the teachers after prior sensitization. Conclusions: This study protocol is designed to test the hypothesis that, the teacher-lead activity-based learning for school children will improve their road safety knowledge, practices and behavior compared to existing curriculum if any. Trial Registration: The trial is registered in Clinical Trials Registry, India (REF/2018/01/016902).

Psychological distress in relation to blood pressure among Andhra Pradesh state road transport corporation bus drivers, Vijayawada

Background: One of the major health problem worldwide is elevated blood pressure (BP). Prior research had shown that hypertensives experience psychological distress, although pre-hypertensives have not yet been subject to this research. Objectives were to assess the major risk factors of increasing BP among bus drivers and to assess psychological distress in relation to BP levels. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among Bus drivers aged above 20 years, study was carried out between July to October of 2022, a sample of 135 was taken. Inferential statistics such as Pearson Chi square test and an unpaired independent-sample t-test was used to assess the difference between pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals on GHQ score. Results: In the present study (n=135), 47% were normotensive, 34% were in hypertensive stage and 19% were in pre-hypertensive stage. On assessment of psychological distress in relation to BP among bus drivers the mean of (General health questionnaire) GHQ-12 was found to be 17.57 among hypertensives and 17.86 among pre-hypertensives. Two tailed significance value of 0.768 was observed between pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals indicating that psychological distress had significant effects. Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension was among bus drivers, leading to cardio vascular diseases which in turn causes increased morbidity and mortality, lowering individual productivity and having an impact on the national economy. The prevalence of non-communicable diseases should be monitored by lifestyle changes and periodic screenings.

Assessment of non-communicable disease risk factors among Andhra Pradesh state road transport corporation bus drivers of Vijayawada

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are lifestyle disorders, which contribute to 41 million total deaths globally. In India, it contributes to around 6 million (60%) of all deaths in 2021. The main objective of the study was to assess the socio-demographic factors, prevalence, and association between demographic profile and major NCD risk factors among Andhra Pradesh state road transport corporation bus drivers of Vijayawada. Methods: It is a cross-sectional study conducted from July to October 22 among APSRTC bus drivers aged above 20 years in Vijayawada. Data was collected by using a pre-designed modified world health organization questionnaire. Results: The results(n=120) from the current study showed that the majority of the driver’s mean age was 46.4±10.9, 37.5% had hypertension, 24.2% had diabetes, 54.2% had insufficient sleep, and 79.2% had work-related stress. Conclusions: Occupational groups like bus drivers have more prevalence of NCD risk factors and which creates a burden on the healthcare system. A vigorous effort is needed to develop strategies for preventing and managing NCDs.

Knowledge about COVID-19 Infection and Stress Levels among Ambulance Drivers during COVID-19 Pandemic — A Cross Sectional Study

Introduction : The medical personnel especially have to deal with both the Biological and Psychological consequences originating from the influence of virus. Emergency Care Units equipped with ambulance service always should be at the fore front to face all emerging untoward incidents. Ambulance Drivers often disregard their physical health and mental stress in order to fulfil the duties entrusted on them. Methodology : Cross-sectional questionnaire based on-line survey was conducted. Ambulance drivers were North and South India were taken as study subjects. Knowledge based questions and mental stress were assessed using Perceived Stress level Scale (PSS). The questionnaires were translated toTamil, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam and Hindi languages. Chi-square test was done to find the association between variables. Results : Among the 101 respondents, 84.2% were having good knowledge about the pandemic. Statistically significant association between number of patients transported per day and the knowledge levels of Ambulance drivers was found (p =0.048)(Chi-square value=15.65). Drivers in Government sector were having more knowledge compared to private sector (p =0.038)(Chi square value=6.53). The perceived mental stress was found to increase with a greater number of patients being transported per day, which was statistically significant (p =0.001)(Chi-square value= 30.42). Conclusion : Knowledge regarding COVID-19 virus was adequate among the Ambulance Drivers. Knowledge was found to be more among drivers who work in Government medical establishments. Mental stress was more among drivers who transported more than 5 patients per day.

Research on the driving factors and countermeasures for the transformation of scientific and technological achievements in Beijing municipal tertiary comprehensive hospitals / 中华医学科研管理杂志

Objective:This study aims to identify and enhance management strategies for fostering the conversion of scientific and technological advancements in tertiary general hospitals in Beijing.Methods:A questionnaire survey was conducted to pinpoint and organize the areas needing improvement in the transformation process of scientific and technological achievements at Beijing Tiantan Hospital. This involved aspects such as organization, leadership, investment, incentives, and service guarantees. The data were then analyzed and summarized, taking into account the hospital′s management, research activities, and the specific circumstances of the institution.Results:The primary drivers for successful achievement transformation in Beijing′s tertiary general hospitals were identified across six key indicators: proficiency of professional and technical managers, allocation of special funds, access to market and industry resources, criteria for job title evaluation and promotion, a culture promoting diligence and fault tolerance, and comprehensive transformation training programs.Conclusions:The study concludes that implementing effective incentives and refining the institutional environment for innovation and transformation are crucial. Additionally, it′s vital to adjust work focus and enhance management in weaker areas, in line with the hospital′s actual situation. Moreover, boosting service efficiency and providing full life cycle services have emerged as pivotal measures to augment the efficacy of hospital innovation and transformation efforts.

Knowledge and Attitude of Commercial Drivers in Benin City towards Utilization of Eye Care Services

Background: An excellent vision is crucial in driving and many driving related injuries and fatalities have been associated with visual problems especially for commercial drivers. Visual efficiency plays an important role during driving. This study determined the knowledge and attitude of commercial drivers in Benin towards utilization of eye care services. Method: This was a cross sectional study conducted among 100 commercial drivers in Benin City metropolis. Data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire, among commercial drivers from 3 major parks in Benin City. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the data. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results:The results revealedthat majorityofcommercial drivers in Benin city had knowledge of which an eye care provider is (60%), as well as knowing the eye care providers closest to them. However, 75% of them do not see it necessary to utilize the eye care services. Results of this study will help eye care professionals to better advise commercial drivers, concerning their eye health.Conclusion: Findingsrevealed that commercial drivers had a good knowledge of whom eye care providers are but a poor level of utilization of eye care services that they provide (P< 0.05). The factors affecting the poor utilization of eye care services was not statistically significant.

Correr atrás do vento: o trabalho dos mototaxistas de Sobral, Ceará / Chasing the wind: the work of motorcycle taxi drivers from Sobral, Ceará / Perseguir el viento: el trabajo de los mototaxis de Sobral, Ceará

A pesquisa teve como objetivo geral analisar a atividade e o ofício dos mototaxistas de Sobral, Ceará. O objetivo específico foi compreender: a) a atividade exercida e o conceito de real da atividade; b) as prescrições; c) as regras informais; e d) as relações profissionais. A investigação adotou o referencial teórico da Clínica da Atividade, e participaram oito mototaxistas. Inspiradas no método da Instrução ao Sósia, foram realizadas e gravadas entrevistas semiestruturadas. Seu áudio foi transcrito e o conteúdo passou por análise construtivo-interpretativa. Os resultados mostraram que a atividade era regulamentada pela prefeitura e dependia da manutenção dos instrumentos utilizados. O expediente era organizado por uma regra do coletivo de trabalho relacionada ao horário de funcionamento de escolas e universidades. A busca por passageiros variava, sendo possível ficar em pontos fixos ou circular pela cidade. As condições ambientais demandavam cuidados como o uso de protetor solar e hidratação. A autonomia da profissão permitia organizar o próprio expediente e o ganho mensal. Entretanto, houve queixas relativas à falta de direitos previdenciários e ao fato de que a flexibilidade geraria uma sobrecarga de trabalho que poderia trazer prejuízos à saúde. Riscos foram identificados em acidentes de trânsito e violência urbana. Os relatos acerca das relações com os colegas mostraram um ambiente amistoso, e as relações com os passageiros eram definidas por cada situação, abrangendo desde interações objetivas até conversas pessoais.(AU)

The research had as general objective to analyze the activity and the work of motorcycle taxi drivers in Sobral, Ceará. Specific objectives were to understand: (a) the activity performed and the real of activity; (b) the prescriptions; (c) informal rules and (d) professional relationships. The investigation adopted the theoretical framework of the Clinic of Activity. Eight motorcycle taxi drivers participated in the investigation. Inspired by the instruction to the double method, semi-structured interviews were conducted. The audio of the interviews was transcribed and underwent constructive-interpretive analysis. The results showed that the activity was regulated by the city and depended on the maintenance of the instruments used. The working hours were organized by a collective labor rule related to the opening hours of schools and universities. The looking-for for passengers also varied: it was possible to stay at fixed points or move around the city. Environmental conditions required care such as the use of sunscreen and hydration. The profession's autonomy made it possible to organize its own hours and monthly earnings. However, there were complaints regarding the lack of social security rights and that flexibility would create an overload of work that could harm health. Risks have been identified in traffic accidents and urban violence. Reports about relationships with colleagues showed a friendly atmosphere. Relations with passengers were defined by each situation, ranging from objective interactions to personal conversations.(AU)

La investigación tuvo como objetivo general analizar la actividad y el trabajo de los mototaxis en Sobral, Ceará. Los objetivos específicos eran comprender: (a) la actividad realizada y la real de la actividad; (b) las prescripciones; (c) reglas informales y (d) relaciones profesionales. La investigación adoptó el marco teórico de la Clínica de Actividad. En la investigación participaron ocho mototaxis. Inspirándose en el método de instrucción al doble, se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas. El audio de las entrevistas fue transcrito y sometido a un análisis constructivo-interpretativo. Los resultados mostraron que la actividad estaba regulada por la prefectura municipal y dependía del mantenimiento de los instrumentos utilizados. Los horarios de trabajo fueron organizados por una norma laboral colectiva relacionada con los horarios de apertura de escuelas y universidades. La búsqueda de pasajeros también variaba: era posible permanecer en puntos fijos o moverse por la ciudad. Las condiciones ambientales requerían cuidados como el uso de protector solar e hidratación. La autonomía de la profesión permitió organizar sus propias horas y ganancias mensuales. Sin embargo, hubo quejas sobre la falta de derechos de seguridad social y que la flexibilidad crearía una sobrecarga de trabajo que podría dañar la salud. Se han identificado riesgos en accidentes de tráfico y violencia urbana. Los informes sobre las relaciones con los colegas mostraron un ambiente agradable. Las relaciones con los pasajeros se definieron por cada situación, desde interacciones objetivas hasta conversaciones personales.(AU)

Adaptation to the driving simulator and prediction of the braking time performance, with and without distraction, in older adults and middle-aged adults

Abstract Context: Many studies show the importance of evaluating the adaptation time of subjects in a virtual driving environment, looking forwards to a response as closest as a possible real vehicle. Objectives: This study aimed to identify and analyze the adaptation to the driving simulator in older adults and middle-aged adults with and without a distraction, and a secondary aim was to identify predictors of safe performance for older adults' drives. Design: Male and female middle-aged adults (n = 62, age = 30.3 ± 7.1 years) and older adults (n = 102, age = 70.4 ± 5.8 years) were evaluated for braking time performance in a driving simulator; cognition performance assessment included the Mini-Mental State Examination; motor evaluation included ankle flexor muscle strength with the isokinetic dynamometer and handgrip strength; the postural balance was evaluated with Timed Up and Go test, with and without a cognitive distraction task. Results: Older adults (men and women) and middle-aged adult women require more time to adapt to the driving simulator. The distractor increases the adaptation time for all groups. The main predictors of braking time for older women are age, muscle strength, and postural balance associated with distraction, and for older men, muscle strength. Conclusions: Age, sex, and distractor interfere in the adaptation of the virtual task of driving in a simulator. The evaluation model developed with multi-domains demonstrated the ability to predict which skills are related to braking time with and without the presence of the distractor.

The Impact of Vehicular Emission on Erythrocyte Level and Red Cell Indices of Occupationally Exposed Subjects in a Given City

Background: The association of combustive emission has been inter-related with haematologic parameters and a likelihoodto pro-inflammatory state. This research is aimed at assessing the impact of vehicular emission on erythrocyte level and red cell indices of occupationally exposed subjects.Methods:The level of haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit, red blood cells, mean cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin, mean cell haemoglobin concentration, and red cell distribution width were determined in four hundred subjects with the aid of Mythic 22 haematology autoanalyser.Results:The comparison of the haemoglobin and haematocrit shows that the value of mean ± standard error value of generator exposed and mechanics respectively were significantly higher than the other groups (p< 0.03). On the otherhand, the red blood cell count for generator exposed and mechanics ranked higherthan the other groups (p< 0.03). The mean cell volume (MCV) of generator exposed and mechanics were 86.57±0.08 fl and 84.49±1.04 fl respectively while control and drivers had values of 93.24±1.13 fl and 93.22±1.13 fl respectively (p< 0.03). The mechanics recorded a mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) of 26.92±0.40 pg which was significantly lower (p< 0.04) than the control (30.37±0.47 pg), generator exposed (39.68±6.38 pg) and drivers (30.42±0.47 pg). Conclusion:The differences amongst the groups and none of the groups were within the medically acceptable ranges which is a pointer to the fact that there might be an underlying inflammatory condition which might be due to occupational exposure

La salud de los conductores de las rutas en Uruguay. Estudio acerca del estado de salud-enfermedad de los conductores profesionales de las rutas departamentales y nacionales. Uruguay 2021 / A study on the health status of professional drivers in national routes and regional roads. Uruguay 2021 / Estudo sobre o estado de saúde-doença de motoristas profissionais de rotas departamentais e nacionais. Uruguai 2021

Introducción: la siniestralidad vial es un problema de salud pública(1). La Unidad Nacional de Seguridad Vial (UNASEV) informa que en 2019 fallecieron 422 personas por esta causa, el 52% falleció en rutas nacionales(2). El factor humano es clave en este fenómeno multifactorial, y es muy importante el estado de salud de los conductores profesionales. No existen estudios dirigidos específicamente a evaluar este aspecto en nuestro país. Objetivo: conocer el estado de salud-enfermedad de los conductores profesionales del transporte terrestre de pasajeros y de carga que trabajaron en rutas nacionales y departamentales durante mayo-agosto de 2021. Método: estudio descriptivo, transversal, dirigido a conductores mayores de 18 años con libreta profesional, que recorren más de 100 km en una jornada laboral en rutas del corredor internacional y la red primaria de la Red Vial Nacional(3). Se utilizó un cuestionario autoadministrado y anónimo. Resultados: 112 conductores respondieron el cuestionario, 97,3% hombres, con una media de 43,5 años, predominantemente de Canelones (24,1%), Montevideo y San José (16,1% respectivamente). 67,8% conducía transporte de cargas. 59,8% percibía tener un buen estado de salud. Respecto a la prevalencia de enfermedades predominaron las osteoarticulares (55,3% lumbalgia). En lo referente a los estilos de vida, declararon dormir una media de 6,75 h por día, y un 39,3% tuvo que detener la marcha para dormir. El 77,8% eran sedentarios. 65,2% no consumía fármacos, y en el último mes, 92,8% consumió mate, 19,64% alcohol y dos conductores, cocaína. El 54,5% negó tener médico de referencia. Discusión: se realizó con la Coordinadora de Sindicatos del Transporte, la Asociación Nacional de Empresas de Transporte Carretero (ANETRA) y UNASEV. Preocupa la subdeclaración de patologías, de consumo de medicación y sustancias, y proponen mejoras en la atención a la salud de los trabajadores y en la accesibilidad al médico de referencia.

Summary: Introduction: road accidents are a Public Health issue. The UNASEV (National Unit of Road Safety) reported that 422 people died in road accidents in 2019, and 52% of them died in national routes. The human factor is a key element in this multi-factor phenomenon, and therefore, the health status of route professional drivers is extremely important. There are no specific studies addressing this aspect in our country. Objective: to learn about the health-disease status of professional drivers in the land freight or passenger transport sector, who work in national and regional routes between May and August 2021. Method: descriptive, transversal study focusing on drivers over 18 years old, holder of professional drivers' licenses, who cover distances greater than 100 km during a working day in national routes and the primary network of the National Road Network. A self-administered anonymous questionnaire was used. Results: 112 drivers answered the questionnaire, 97.3% of which were male. Average age was 43.5 years old, and most of them came from Canelones (24.1%), Montevideo and San José (16.1%) respectively. 67.8% were transporting loads and 59.8% thought their health status was good. As to diseases, osteoarticular conditions prevailed (55.3% had back pain). In terms of lifestyle, drivers declared they slept 6.74 hours per day on average, and 39.3% stated they needed to stop driving in order to sleep. 77.8% led a sedentary life, 65.2% used some kind of medication, and in the last month, 98.8% consumed mate (national infusion), 19.64% alcohol and 2 drivers used cocaine. 54.5% stated they had no primary physician. Discussion: a discussion was held with the Coordinating Entity of Transport Unions, the National Association of Route Transport Companies (ANETRA) and UNASEV. The under-declaration of diseases and consumption of medication and substances are reasons of concern, and proposals were made to improve the health care services of workers and their access to a primary physician.

Introdução: os acidentes rodoviários são um problema de Saúde Pública. A Unidade Nacional de Segurança Rodoviária (UNASEV) informa que em 2019, 422 pessoas morreram por essa causa, e 52% morreram nas rotas nacionais. O Fator Humano é fundamental neste fenômeno multifatorial, sendo muito importante o estado de saúde dos motoristas profissionais nas vias. Não existem estudos especificamente voltados para avaliar esse aspecto no Uruguai. Objetivo: conhecer a relação saúde-doença dos motoristas profissionais do transporte terrestre de passageiros e de carga, que trabalham nas rotas nacionais e departamentais no período maio-agosto de 2021. Método: estudo descritivo, transversal, de condutores maiores de 18 anos com habilitação profissional, que trafegam mais de 100 km em uma jornada de trabalho em trechos do corredor internacional e da rede primária da Rede Rodoviária Nacional. Foi utilizado um questionário anônimo autoaplicável. Resultados: 112 motoristas responderam ao questionário, 97,3% homens, com média de idade de 43,5 anos, predominantemente de Canelones (24,1%), Montevidéu e San José (16,1% respectivamente). 67,8% conduziram o transporte de cargas. 59,8% perceberam ter um bom estado de saúde. Em relação à prevalência de doenças, predominaram as doenças osteoarticulares (55,3% lombalgia). Quanto ao estilo de vida, declararam dormir em média 6,75 horas por dia, e 39,3% tiveram que parar de conduzir para dormir. 77,8% eram sedentários. 65,2% não consumiram drogas e, no último mês, 92,8% consumiram mate, 19,64% álcool e 2 motoristas, cocaína. 54,5% negaram ter médico de referência. Discussão: este estudo foi realizado com a Coordenadoria dos Sindicatos dos Transportes, a Associação Nacional das Empresas de Transporte Rodoviário (ANETRA) e a UNASEV. A subnotificação de patologias, consumo de medicamentos e uso de substâncias psicoativas é preocupante; os participantes propõem melhorias na atenção à saúde dos trabalhadores e no acesso a um médico de referência.

Cardiovascular Disease Risk Profile and Risk Prediction Among Unskilled Workers of a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital

Background: The prevalence of CVD risk factors in India is steadily increasing moreover CVD in Indians has been shown to occur prematurely. The study was designed to estimate the 10-year cardiovascular risk using region specific WHO/ISH risk prediction chart among unskilled workers of a tertiary care teaching hospital and to determine factors associated with risk. Material and methods: This was a hospital based cross sectional study conducted among 250 workers selected by simple random sampling. Using structured questionnaire, life style related risk factors name-ly, average daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, physical activity, perceived stress, tobacco and al-cohol use was collected. BMI and BP were measured using standard protocol and classified following standard guidelines. Bio-chemical parameters were also measured. Results: Among 250 workers, 37.2% and 10% consumed daily minimal recommended level of vegeta-bles and fruits respectively, 21.1% was current tobacco user, 17.2% was alcohol drinkers, 50.4% were obese, 18.8% had high blood pressure and 6% had elevated cholesterol. Among the workers 46.7 % had <10% risk, 5.3% had 10% to <20% risk and, 3.3% had 20% to <30% risk to develop CVD within future 10 years of lifetime. Drivers and current alcoholics were associated with being in the high-risk group. Conclusion: Employer initiated regular work place health screening and services need to be aimed at the unskilled workers, especially for CVD targeting drivers and alcoholics.