International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health

Reuter, Marvin; Pischke, Claudia R.; Rigo, Mariann; Diehl, Katharina; Spallek, Jacob; Richter, Matthias; Hövener, Claudia; Dragano, Nico

doi: 10.1007/s00420-023-02010-6pmid: 37814035

ObjectiveFew studies have investigated health inequalities among young workers. The objectives of this study are to assess the extent of health inequalities in a sample of job starters and to explore the contribution of job demands and organisational factors.MethodsWe analyze data from the BIBB/BAuA Youth Employment Survey 2012. The cross-sectional survey includes a representative sample of 3214 German employees, apprentices, and trainees aged 15–24 years. Individuals were grouped by their years of schooling into low (< 12 years) and high levels of education (≥ 12 years). Regression analysis estimated the link between education and four health outcomes: self-rated health, number of health events, musculoskeletal symptoms, and mental health problems over the last 12 months. Counterfactual mediation analysis tested for indirect effects of education via working conditions (i.e., physical and psychosocial job demands) and company characteristics (i.e., company size, health prevention measures, financial situation, downsizing). All analyses were adjusted for age, sex, nationality, region, working hours, job tenure, employment relationship, and economic sector.ResultsHighly educated workers reported better self-rated health (b = 0.24, 95% CI 0.18–0.31) and lower numbers of health events (Rate Ratio (RR) = 0.74, 95% CI 0.67–0.82), musculoskeletal symptoms (RR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.66–0.80) and mental health problems (RR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.76–0.93). Total job demands explained between 21.6% and 87.2% of the educational differences (depending on health outcome). Unfavourable company characteristics were associated with worse health, but showed no or only small mediation effects.ConclusionsHealth inequalities are already present at the early working career due to socio-economically stratified working hazards. To enhance prevention measures that aim at reducing inequalities in workplace health, we propose shifting attention towards earlier stages of life.

Baroni, Isis F.; Mehta, Geneva D.; Sullivan, Ashley F.; Camargo Jr., Carlos A.; Dumas, Orianne

doi: 10.1007/s00420-023-02011-5pmid: 37819536

ObjectiveHousehold chemicals may act as irritants in the lungs; however, their association with recurrent wheeze and asthma in children remains controversial. We aimed to investigate if household cleaning product exposure in infancy is associated with recurrent wheezing and asthma development in children.MethodsWe analyzed data from two cohorts: MARC-35 consisting of 815 children with history of severe bronchiolitis in infancy, and MARC-43 consisting of 525 healthy children in infancy. Frequency of use of cleaning product at the child’s home during infancy was collected via telephone interview with parents. Outcomes were recurrent wheezing by age 3 years and asthma diagnosis at age 6 years.ResultsIn MARC-35, there was no association between cleaning product exposure in infancy and recurrent wheeze (adjusted HR = 1.01 [95% CI 0.66–1.54] for 4–7 days/week exposure frequency), nor asthma (adjusted OR = 0.91 [95% CI 0.51–1.63]). In MARC-43, there was also no association between cleaning product exposure in infancy and recurrent wheeze (adjusted HR = 0.69 [95% CI 0.29–1.67] for 4–7 days/week exposure frequency).ConclusionWe found no association between household cleaning product exposure in infancy and later development of recurrent wheeze or asthma, even among children who are at high risk for asthma due to history of severe bronchiolitis.

Akram, Zertashia; Mahjabeen, Ishrat; Batool, Mariam; Kanwal, Sana; Nawaz, Fatima; Kayani, Mahmood Akhtar; Rizwan, Muhammad

doi: 10.1007/s00420-023-02012-4pmid: 37804366

ObjectiveGlobally millions of people working in various industries and are exposed to different toxins which may affect their genetic stability and DNA integrity. Present study was designed to estimate the expression variation of genes related to DNA repair (XRCC1, PARP1) and lead toxicity (ALAD) in exposed industrial workers.MethodsAbout 200 blood samples were collected from workers of brick kiln, welding, furniture and paint industry (50/industry) along with age and gender matched controls. mRNA expression of genes was measured using RT-PCR. Serum levels of total ROS, POD, TBAR activity was calculated. Blood lead levels were estimated by atomic absorption spectrometer.ResultsRelative expression of XRCC1 and PARP1 gene was significantly (P < 0.001) upregulated, while ALAD gene expression was downregulated in exposed group compared to control. Expression of XRCC1 and PARP1 was increased (P < 0.001) in exposed workers with > 30 year age compared to control with > 30 year age. Same was observed when < 30 year age group of control and exposed was compared. Likewise, XRCC1 and PARP1 expression was increased (P < 0.001) in exposed workers with > 30 year age compared to workers with < 30 year age. Whereas, ALAD gene showed significant (P < 0.01) decrease in > 30 year age workers compared to control of same age and exposed with < 30 year of age. Relative expression of XRCC1 and PARP1 was increased (P < 0.001) in exposed smokers compared to exposed non-smokers and control smokers. Whereas, ALAD gene expression reduced (P < 0.001) significantly in both groups. Blood lead content was higher (P < 0.001) in exposed group compared to control. Strong correlation was observed between XRCC1, PARP1 and ALAD gene versus age, total exposure duration, exposure per day and lead deposition. ROS, TBARS and POD activity was higher (P < 0.01) in exposed group compared to control group.ConclusionPresent study suggested deregulation of genes related to DNA repair and lead intoxication in exposed group compared to controls. Strong correlation was observed between selected genes and demographic parameters. Present results revealed altered activity of oxidative stress markers which would induce oxidative damage to DNA integrity and limit the function of repair enzymes.

Pravalika, B.; Yamuna, U.; Saoji, Apar Avinash

doi: 10.1007/s00420-023-02013-3pmid: 37821618

Background and objectivesWork-related musculoskeletal pain and discomfort are due to repetitive, unnatural, continuous movements and postures. Yoga therapy is beneficial for pain and disability in occupational settings. The current study aims to investigate the effect of yoga on musculoskeletal pain, stress, and sleep quality among industry workers.MethodologyThe study was conducted as a parallel randomized controlled open-label trial. An allocation ratio of 1:1 was followed for randomization. A health survey was used to recruit 90 male workers in machinery manufacturing industries from Bengaluru. A specially designed yoga module was administered five days a week for eight weeks to yoga group. The waitlisted control group received lifestyle suggestions. Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were administered at baseline, at the fourth week and eighth weeks. Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance (RM-ANOVA) was conducted to elicit the group*time interactions.ResultsNinety participants (Yoga = 45, Control = 45) with age 40.57 ± 6.85 were randomized. Significant interactions were found in CMDQ, VAS, PSS and PSQI scores. Further, between group comparison demonstrate significant difference between the groups at the end of 8 weeks for CMDQ, VAS and PSS scores.ConclusionsYoga can be used to reduce musculoskeletal pain, discomfort, perceived stress and improve sleep quality among industry workers.Trial registration numberCTRI/2022/03/040894.

Zhang, Heli; Wang, Jingpin; Zhang, Siwei; Tong, Sumei; Hu, Jinping; Che, Ying; Zhuo, Lin; Wang, Peng; Geng, Rongmei; Zhou, Yujie; Wang, Panfeng; Zhan, Siyan; Li, Baohua

doi: 10.1007/s00420-023-02014-2pmid: 37874403

Background and purposeEfforts to improve nurses’ physical and mental health are critical to ensuring the safety and quality of the healthcare system. Long-term studies targeting the relevancy of nurses’ occupation characteristics with health conditions remain insufficient. This study aimed to examine the relationship between nurses’ night shift and sleep problems and metabolic abnormalities risk.MethodsThis study was a part of the National Nurse Health Study, an ambispective cohort study in China, in 2021. Based on an integration physical examination data system, this study carried out a retrospective analysis of 730 nurses from 2018 to 2020 and combined with a questionnaire survey in 2021. The STROBE guidelines were adopted for reporting.ResultsIn the 23 (23.0, 24.0) months follow-up, higher night shift load was associated with more sleep problems such as shortened sleep duration, sleep disorders, poor sleep quality, and sleep deprivation. Moreover, night shift load was associated with chronic diseases risk factors, increasing body mass index and body fat, with more night shift density, increasing the occurrence of low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high triglyceride, triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, and serum uric acid.ConclusionThe night shift load has become an occupational health concern, contributing to chronic diseases relevant metabolic risk factors and negative influence on sleep health. Focus on the strategies to improve the sleep quality of nurses undergoing night shift work, optimize work scheduling and ongoing monitor the relevant risk factors are essential to enhance the stability and well-being of the nursing workforce.Clinical Trials registration information: NCT04572347, on October 1, 2020. https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04572347

Poulsen, Vivian Rueskov; Baumann, Mathilde; Korshøj, Mette

doi: 10.1007/s00420-023-02015-1pmid: 37851100

PurposeThe physical activity paradox states occupational physical activity (OPA) to be hazardous and leisure time physical activity (LTPA) to be beneficial for health. Yet, the acute effects of OPA and LTPA on cardiovascular risk factors are sparsely investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects on ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) from steps/hour during work and leisure time among cleaners.MethodsData were obtained from a cluster randomized worksite intervention among 91 cleaners in Denmark and included a questionnaire, objective physical measurements, ABP (measured across 24 h), and steps/hour (measured during work and leisure time). A preliminary linear regression analysis was conducted as a mixed model including random intercept and slope, allowing for both within- and between-participant variability. We adjusted for sex, age, job seniority, medication use, smoking, self-reported fitness and BMI. Changes in ABP (mmHg) were estimated per 100 steps/hour.ResultsThe number of steps taken was not associated with ABP during either work or leisure. Moreover, the ABP did not seem to differ between exposure to steps taken during work (systolic − 0.42 mmHg, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): − 1.10–0.25, diastolic − 0.03 mmHg, 95% CI, − 0.45–0.39) and leisure time (systolic -0.47 mmHg, 95% CI, − 1.66–0.72, diastolic 0.25 mmHg, 95% CI, − 0.46–0.97).ConclusionOur findings show no significant association between steps/hour and ABP and no contrasting effects between work and leisure time. These mechanisms fostering the divergent results need to be further investigated to improve the understanding of the physical activity paradox.

Hult, Marja; Kallio, Hanna; Kangasniemi, Mari; Pesonen, Tanja; Kopra, Juho

doi: 10.1007/s00420-023-02017-zpmid: 37843632

ObjectiveEmployment conditions in the care sector are changing, and precarious employment (PE) is becoming more widespread, manifesting as undervaluation, adverse leadership, work overload, and inadequate control over work. This study aimed to examine changes in psychosocial health, work well-being, PE, and calling over time and explore the effects of PE and calling on psychosocial health and work well-being.MethodsThe longitudinal study collected follow-up panel data in the three time points (2020, 2022, and 2023) from care workers (n = 1502), linear mixed effects models.ResultsPE decreased (β =  – 0.02), and perceived work well-being increased (β = 0.04), but there were no change in psychosocial health (β =  – 0.01) and calling (β = 0.01) during the three-year period. Younger (< 39) care workers perceived higher levels of PE and had poorer psychological health. Moreover, PE had a negative effect on psychosocial health (β =  – 0.63) and work well-being (β =  – 0.68) and calling had a positive effect on psychosocial health (β = 0.41) and work well-being (β = 0.49) in multivariate models.ConclusionPE conditions affect work performance and employee well-being and may threaten patient care; therefore, it should be further investigated in the care sector. It is noteworthy that calling still seems to be central in care work. The results deepen the understanding of the current shortage crisis in health and social care workplaces but can also provide keys to resolving the crisis.

Balachandar, Rakesh; Viramgami, Ankit; Singh, Dhirendrapratap; Sivaperumal, P.; Upadhyay, Kuldip

doi: 10.1007/s00420-023-02018-ypmid: 37889332

ObjectiveThe systemic illnesses associated with chronic lead exposure are partially explained by the interaction between lead and calcium metabolism. Lead exposure is posited to alter calcium levels either by altering calcium homeostasis markers or altering bone remodeling. The present study investigated the interaction between blood lead levels and calcium homeostasis markers and bone remodeling markers among lead-smelting plant workers.MethodAdult male workers employed at the lead-smelting plant were clinically investigated as part of their regular occupational health assessment program. Additionally, control participants without occupational lead exposure, employed in administrative and white-collar jobs were invited to participate in the study. Sociodemographic and occupational details were collected by pre-standardized semi-structured questionnaires from all consenting participants, followed by clinical examination and blood collection. Blood lead levels were estimated using microwave-assisted acid digestion and the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technique. Serum calcium and total protein and alkaline phosphatase levels were estimated as per standard biochemical techniques. 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3, calcitriol, and osteocalcin were estimated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition to comparative analysis for comparing the two groups, independent linear regression models were explored to investigate the associations between serum calcium and blood lead and osteocalcin levels.ResultA total of 189 lead-exposed men employed at the lead-smelting plant and 25 male control participants consented to participate. The two groups were similar in age, diet, and body mass index. Occupationally exposed individuals exhibited significantly lower serum calcium and higher bone remodeling markers (osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase) as compared to controls. However, the serum 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3 and calcitriol levels were not significantly different between the two groups. Lastly, the serum lead and osteocalcin were weakly but significantly associated with serum calcium levels after controlling for variations in total protein, diet, 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3, calcitriol, and alkaline phosphatase in the study participants.ConclusionCurrent observations reinforce the adverse role of lead exposure on calcium metabolism. Although lead exposure is posited to affect calcium metabolism by multiple pathways, current study observations favor the bone remodeling pathway. The observations recommend periodic screening for calcium and bone health among lead-exposed adults.Graphical abstract[graphic not available: see fulltext]

Tsantila, Fotini; Coppens, Evelien; De Witte, Hans; Arensman, Ella; Amann, Benedikt; Cerga-Pashoja, Arlinda; Corcoran, Paul; Creswell-Smith, Johanna; Cully, Grace; Toth, Monika Ditta; Greiner, Birgit; Griffin, Eve; Hegerl, Ulrich; Holland, Carolyn; Leduc, Caleb; Leduc, Mallorie; Ni Dhalaigh, Doireann; O’Brien, Cliodhna; Paterson, Charlotte;