| Publisher: Egyptian Society of Industrial Medicine (Total: 1 journals) [Sort alphabetically]
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Egyptian Journal of Occupational Medicine
Number of Followers: 3  Open Access journalISSN (Print) 1110-1881 - ISSN (Online) 2357-058X Published by Egyptian Society of Industrial Medicine  [1 journal]
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- KIDNEY AFFECTION AMONG WORKERS EXPOSED TO SILICA IN AN IRON AND STEEL
FOUNDRY
Abstract: Introduction: Silica is used in many industries such as foundries, glass production, cement, concrete, ceramic, porcelain, pottery, bricks, sandblasting, abrasives and construction activities. Several studies have linked long term silica exposure to renal diseases, especially glomerulonephritis. Aim of Work: To study the effect of silica exposure on the renal functions among iron and steel foundry workers. Materials and Methods: Seventy workers exposed to silica in an iron and steel foundry in Helwan, Egypt, were compared to 40 non-exposed individuals as regards full medical and occupational histories, full clinical examination and laboratory investigations including measurement of serum creatinine, serum cystatin C, serum urea, urinary silica, urinary albumin and urinary α1-microglobulin. Albumin creatinine ratio (ACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (e-GFR) were also calculated. Results: A statistically significant higher values of urinary silica, urinary albumin, urinary α1-microglobulin, serum creatinine, serum cystatin C and ACR were detected among the exposed group compared to the control. A statistically significant lower value of e-GFR was found among the exposed group. Statistically significant positive correlations were present between duration of employment and each of urinary silica, serum cystatin C, serum creatinine, serum urea, urinary α1-microglobulin, urinary albumin and ACR levels among the exposed group. Statistically significant positive correlations were also detected between urinary silica level and each of serum cystatin C, serum creatinine, serum urea, urinary α1-microglobulin, urinary albumin and ACR among the exposed group. Whereas, the e-GFR showed statistically significant negative correlations with both duration of employment and the urinary silica level among the exposed group. Conclusion and Recommendations: Silica exposure was associated with altered kidney function tests and decreased level of the e-GFR. Pre-employment and periodic medical examinations for silica-exposed workers should include clinical examination and determination of kidney functions, e-GFR, urinary α1-microglobulin and serum.cystatin C for early detection of kidney affection
PubDate: Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +010
- BURNOUT SYNDROME AND ITS PREDICTORS AMONG NURSES IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE
FACILITIES DURING COVID-19
Abstract: Introduction: Job burnout is a substantial problem among health care workers. Aim of Work: To determine the prevalence of burnout, its predictors among nurses working in primary health care facilities during COVID-19 in Egypt.Materials and Methods: A multicenter descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on all nurses (250) working in primary health care facilities (11 units and 5 centers) in Port said city between March and June 2020. An interviewer-administered questionnaire including socio-demographic, occupational and contextual questions contributing to burnout. While the second one was the standardized Arabic version of Maslach Burnout Inventory(MBI). Results: The prevalence of high burnout among nurses was 86%. The most prevalent subscale was low level personal accomplishment followed by high depersonalization (DP) then emotional exhaustion (EE). Time insufficiency for family, bad work relationships, being a technical nurses and inflexibility in work scheduling were predictors of both EE and DP. Moreover, EE was significantly associated with married female nurses who experienced work-related stress. While high DP was significantly associated with older male married registered nurse who had longer working hours weekly and lack of PPE. Burnout predictors were lack of PPE (AOR=27.57; 95% CI: 3.2-30.45), presence of work-related stress (AOR=10.6; 95% CI: 2.17-25.22) and inflexibility in work scheduling (OR=3.71; 95% CI:1.07 -12.84). Conclusion and Recommendations: Most of the primary health care nurses experienced high levels of burnout during COVID-19 pandemic. Work related stress, inflexibility of scheduling, lack of PPE displayed significant prediction of burnout. Health-care environments can be enhanced through providing protective equipment, adjusting workhours, ensuring hours of effective rest, increasing manpower to reduce workload.
PubDate: Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +010
- OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH LITERACY AMONG AGRICULTURAL WORKERS
Abstract: Introduction: Occupational health literacy (OHL) is the degree of worker’s capacity to obtain, process, and understand occupational safety, health services and information that he needs to work safely and take good decisions to keep himself safe at work. Occupational health literacy is important to the health and safety of workers. Aim of Work: To explore the status of occupational health literacy and the associated risk factors among agricultural workers in Ismailia governorate. Materials and Method: This cross-sectional study was carried out among agricultural workers in Ismailia governorate. A sample size of 500 workers was randomly selected through multi-stage sampling technique. Data collection tool was through a questionnaire made by the researchers after reviewing literature then translated into Arabic. Results: A total 500 agricultural workers with mean age of 49.67 ± 11.37 years. Ninety percent of the participants were males. Low back pain was reported among 46.2%. Mean of OHL score was 58.64 ± 23.48. More than half of the participants (57%) had Low, 13.2% had Enough and 29.8% had Good OHL level. Significant positive correlation was reported between OHL score, age, and experience (r= 0.321, 0.261 respectively, p <0.001). Also, there is statistically significant association between OHL levels, gender, and educational level (p < 0.001). Thirty percent of the participants had occupational injuries/ accidents. Conclusion and Recommendations: The occupational health literacy level of most of the agricultural workers is low. The educational level and experience are associated with increasing the occupational health literacy level. We recommended an occupational health and safety training program that is culturally and educationally appropriate for agricultural workers and their employers.
PubDate: Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +010
- THE EFFECT OF EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTION ON TEACHERS’ KNOWLEDGE OF
ATTENTION-DEFICIT ...
Abstract: Introduction: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms have a negative impact on children’s cognitive, emotional, behavioral, social, and academic performance. Therefore, greater focus should be directed toward increasing awareness of this condition. Aim of Work: To evaluate the effect of an interventional educational program focused on ADHD knowledge among elementary school teachers. Materials and Methods: A Randomized Controlled Trial was conducted among 72 elementary school teachers in the Zagazig educational administration, Sharkia governorate, Egypt, during the second term of the 2021–2022 school year. Sample participants were selected from the elementary schools’ teacher lists provided by the educational administration using a simple randomizing technique and were divided into two groups. Each group (control and intervention) included 36 teachers assigned in matched pairs. Both groups had their knowledge regarding ADHD assessed using a predesigned scale (Knowledge of Attention Deficit Disorders Scale) (KADDS) and were reevaluated three months later after the educational intervention was administered to the intervention group. Results: A statistically significant improvement was observed among teacher knowledge regarding ADHD postintervention in the intervention group compared to the control (p = 0.001). Conclusion and Recommendations: Educational interventions significantly improved teachers’ understanding of ADHD and will allow them to better support students who have ADHD. The possibility of incorporating an ADHD knowledge enhancement program into teacher education and preparation programs should be considered.
PubDate: Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +010
- NIGHT SHIFT AND 25-HYDROXY VITAMIN D3 STATUS AMONG HOSPITAL NURSING STAFF
Abstract: Introduction: Working with night shift system can have a substantial negative influence on the worker’s physical, psychological, and mental health as well as their ability to accomplish their professional duties. Vitamin D insufficiency is a worldwide problem. It has a negative impact on the health of those who are vulnerable. It is hypothesized that night work may affect circulating vitamin D3 levels due to reduced exposure to direct sunlight. Aim of Work: to elucidate the relation between night shift work and 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 status among hospital nursing staff Materials and Methods: It is a cross-sectional comparative study on the nursing staff working in hospitals in Ismailia. The participants’ number was150 individuals (who included night shift, day shift and rotating shift workers), a questionnaire was addressed including: personal data, occupational history, nightshift work characteristics, food description of vitamin D2 intake sources ,Index of exposure to sunlight. The level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in the blood serum was measured. Results: The study showed that 44% of night shift and 38% of rotating shift nursing staff were deficient in 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, 38% of night shift and 46% of day shift nursing staff were insufficient, while only 34% of day shift were sufficient. The results revealed a significant difference in serum vitamin D3 levels between nursing staff groups (p < 0.005). The day shift staff median serum vitamin D3 level was 18 (15, 24) ng/ml, while the night shift staff median level was 13 (9, 17) ng/ml. The number of night shifts worked per month, per year, and taking a sleep during the night shift were all predictors of vitamin D3 deficiency. Conclusion: individuals who work the night and rotating shifts had lower levels of vitamin D3 than those who solely work the day shift. Recommendations: Health education about sun exposure guidelines and vitamin D food sources is recommended for night and rotating shift nursing staff and also indoor workers. Nursing staff should be encouraged to take breaks to go outdoors for sunlight exposure and to consume adequate amounts of vitamin D-rich foods; and vitamin D supplements to maintain optimal vitamin D levels.
PubDate: Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +010
- IMPACT OF SHIFT WORK, SLEEP PROBLEMS ON THE OCCUPATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF
FACTORY WORKERS.
Abstract: Introduction: Sleep disturbances are an important health issue among shift workers that can impact their occupational performance. Aim of Work: To determine the percentage of poor sleep quality, excessive daytime sleepiness, and insomnia among factory workers and their relation to shift work. Additionally, to examine the impact of sleep problems on occupational performance. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a privately owned plastics manufacturing factory in Dakahlia governorate, Egypt between April 1st and June 30th, 2021. Workers were asked to fill out a questionnaire that included the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Occupational Impact of Sleep Questionnaire (OISQ). Results: A total of 159 workers were included in the current analysis. Approximately 70 (44.1%) workers had shift work. Workers had a high burden of sleep problems; poor sleep quality (74.2%), excessive daytime sleepiness (22.6%), and clinical insomnia (10.1%). Shift workers had significantly higher poor sleep quality (p=0.001), excessive daytime sleepiness (p=0.019), and insomnia (p=0.036) compared to non-shift workers. In addition, several sociodemographic characteristics were independently associated with sleep problems. All sleep problems especially poor sleep quality negatively affected occupational performance. The negative impact was similar in both shift and non-shift workers. Conclusion and Recommendations: Shift workers had a significantly higher percentage of poor sleep quality, excessive daytime sleepiness, and insomnia. All studied sleep problems had a significant negative occupational impact. Thus, adjustable work schedules, proper sleep routines, and coping ways such as napping are some interventions that could help shift workers improve their sleep quality.
PubDate: Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +010
- PREVALENCE OF STRESS AMONG AGROCHEMICAL RESEARCHERS
Abstract: Introduction: Agrochemical researches are critical for meeting needs in food and fiber production, as well as disease vector control. The agriculture industry is stressful and there is evidence that persistent stress can contribute to the onset or progression of mental health problems. Aim of Work: To study the prevalence, sources and level of stress using three indicator tools, and the possible relationship between stress and mental well-being, among a group of agrochemical researchers in Egypt. Materials and Methods: A face-to-face interview was performed and the professional life stress (PLSS), the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) indicator tool, in addition to the 12-Items General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) were distributed to 94 agrochemical researchers. Results: Out of 94 questionnaires; 69 replied (with response rate 73.4%). Stress was not a problem among 47.8% of the participants, whereas 49.3% have a Moderate range of stress. Psychologically distressed personnel constituted 21.7% of the total participants. Change, demand and lack of authorities support were the predominant sources of stress among the studied population. Demand and relationships were statistically significant among the problematic stressed personnel than the others. Psychological distress was significantly higher among problematic stress group compared to the other two groups. Conclusion and Recommendations: Stress reported by the studied agrochemical researchers was mostly of Moderate and Non-problematic level. Demand and relationships were significant stressors for problematic stress, and psychological distress. The current study may be considered as the first step in implementing a stress management program to be followed by targeted interventions as group discussions and awareness sessions, organizational change and other aspects of stress prevention/ management programs.
PubDate: Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +010
- COVID-19 VACCINATION ACCEPTABILITY/HESITANCY STATUS PREDICTORS AMONG
MEDICAL TRAINEES
Abstract: Introduction: High COVID-19 vaccination acceptance rates and medical trainees’ coverage as future health care providers is essential to be accomplished. Aim of Work: to assess the level of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy status and to detect the motivators and barriers that may affect it among medical trainees. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical trainees in different universities, Egypt. Data was collected via online questionnaire submitted in social media groups during August to November 2021 from 1008 medical trainees representing different governmental and private universities. Results: Most of trainees (79.2%) perceived that they may catch the COVID-19 infection during their training, 31.9% had vaccination hesitancy, and only 40 trainees refused the vaccine. Almost half of hesitant trainees were worried regarding the vaccine’s infectiveness in transmitting or preventing infection (50.6%) and side effects (66.8%). The most important motivator was that vaccination decreases the severity of infection (88.9%) among acceptance group. The predictors of acceptance/hesitancy status are vaccine is important for face to face contact (OR: 1.60; p=0.038), and to reduce severity of COVID-19 infection (OR: 2.86; p=0.005), vaccine should be mandatory to travel abroad (OR: 2.3; p=0.016), and vaccine should be mandatory administrated for all (OR: 4.10; p=0.000).Conclusion and Recommendations: More than one third of medical trainees had vaccination hesitancy. Decrease the severity of infection is the most important motivator, the predictors of acceptance/hesitancy status among medical trainees are; vaccine is important for face to face contact, to reduce the severity of COVID-19 infection and vaccine should be mandatory to travel abroad. Health authorities and decision-makers should cooperate with each other and work hard to lessen hesitancy and to promote vaccination awareness that helps to improve COVID-19 vaccines acceptanc.
PubDate: Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +010
