ABSTRACT
The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of Raynaud phenomenon (RP) among Estonians in the general population of Southern Estonia. A random sample of 2626 Estonian subjects from the general population was asked about their fingers' sensitivity to cold and color changes by a mail survey. A subsample of 457 subjects was examined to confirm the diagnosis of RP, using a standard interview assisted by color charts (a color scale and hand photographs). In addition to a short clinical examination, the nailfold capillaries were examined by in vivo microscopy and a blood sample was drawn for ANA testing. The prevalence of RP, based on the presence of blanching, alone or with cyanosis, was 8.3% +/- 0.91% (SE) for women and 7.9% +/- 1.62% for men. The prevalence increased with age and, in men, was related to occupation. Smoking was also associated with RP among men but the effect was difficult to separate from that of the occupational influences because of the high proportion (84.2%) of current and past smokers among male manual workers. RP among the Estonians in Southern Estonia has a lower prevalence than in other countries with comparable climate, its female to male ratio is low, and it is related to occupation and smoking in men.
Subject(s)
Raynaud Disease/epidemiology , Absenteeism , Adolescent , Adult , Age of Onset , Aged , Antibodies, Antinuclear/blood , Estonia/epidemiology , Female , Fingers/physiopathology , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Nails/blood supply , Prevalence , Raynaud Disease/economics , Raynaud Disease/physiopathology , Risk Factors , Smoking , Socioeconomic Factors , Surveys and QuestionnairesABSTRACT
Compensation for vibration-induced white finger (VWF) under Canadian law is reviewed. The historical information available in claims data is indicated with specific reference to British Columbia. The bases upon which the disease is recognized for compensation purposes in British Columbia and Ontario are described. Reference is made to the status of VWF in the compensation schemes of other Canadian provinces. The limitations of the current approaches are noted.