Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the most common type of liver cancer.The main risk factors for HCC are alcoholism,hepatitis B virus,hepatitis C virus,nonalcoholic steatohepatitis,obesity,type 2 diabetes,cirrhosis,afla...Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the most common type of liver cancer.The main risk factors for HCC are alcoholism,hepatitis B virus,hepatitis C virus,nonalcoholic steatohepatitis,obesity,type 2 diabetes,cirrhosis,aflatoxin,hemochromatosis,Wilson’s disease and hemophilia.Occupational exposure to chemicals is another risk factor for HCC.Often the relationship between occupational risk and HCC is unclear and the reports are fragmented and inconsistent.This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the association of infective and non-infective occupational risk exposure and HCC in order to encourage further research and draw attention to this global occupational public health problem.展开更多
This study aims to establish the occupational exposure limit （OEL） in the air for workplace of warfarin based on the available toxicological studies and field investigations by using questionnaire and air monitoring...This study aims to establish the occupational exposure limit （OEL） in the air for workplace of warfarin based on the available toxicological studies and field investigations by using questionnaire and air monitoring. The clinical therapeutic dose was used as lowest observed effect level （LOEL）, and no observed effect level （NOEL） was achieved by using a safety factor. The highest concentration of warfarin monitored in the worksite of centrifuge washing, drying and packing were 0.029 mg/m3, 0.052 mg/m3 respectively, which did not exceed the OEL 0.2 mg/m3 recommended by NIOSH and ACGIH. Considering its feasibility for enforcement and protection for workers, we recommend OEL 0.2 mg/m3 of warfarin in China.展开更多
A traditional belief widespread across the biomedical community was that dietary habits and genetic predisposition were the basic factors causing colorectal cancer.In more recent times,however,a growing evidence has s...A traditional belief widespread across the biomedical community was that dietary habits and genetic predisposition were the basic factors causing colorectal cancer.In more recent times,however,a growing evidence has shown that other determinants can be very important in increasing(or reducing) incidence of this malignancy.The hypothesis that environmental and occupational risk factors are associated with colorectal cancer is gaining ground,and high risks of colorectal cancer have been reported among workers in some industrial branches.The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiologic relationship between colorectal cancer and occupational exposures to several industrial activities,by means of a scientific literature review and meta-analysis.This work pointed out increased risks of colorectal cancer for labourers occupied in industries with a wide use of chemical compounds,such as leather(RR = 1.70,95%CI:1.24-2.34),basic metals(RR = 1.32,95%CI:1.07-1.65),plastic and rubber manufacturing(RR = 1.30,95%CI:0.98-1.71 and RR = 1.27,95%CI:0.92-1.76,respectively),besides workers in the sector of repair and installation of machinery exposed to asbestos(RR = 1.40,95%CI:1.07-1.84).Based on our results,the estimated crude excess risk fraction attributable to occupational exposure ranged from about 11% to about 15%.However,homogeneous pattern of association between colorectal cancer and industrial branches did not emerge from this review.展开更多
Cumulative inhalation of respirable coal mine dust(RCMD)can lead to severe lung diseases,including coal worker's pneu-moconiosis(CWP),silicosis,mixed dust pneumoconiosis,dust-related diffuse fibrosis(DDF),and prog...Cumulative inhalation of respirable coal mine dust(RCMD)can lead to severe lung diseases,including coal worker's pneu-moconiosis(CWP),silicosis,mixed dust pneumoconiosis,dust-related diffuse fibrosis(DDF),and progressive massive fibrosis(PMF).Statistics from the number of reported cases showed a significant decrease in the progression of respiratory diseases in the 1990s.However,an unexpected increase in the number of CWP cases was reported in the late 1990s.To date,there has been no comprehensive systematic review to assess all contributing factors to the resurgence of CWP cases.This study aims to investigate the effects of various mining parameters on the prevalence of CWP in coal mines.A systematic review using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis(PRISMA)method was conducted to investigate the health effects of RCMD exposure and identify the factors that may contribute to the recent resurgence of CWP cases.The systematic review yielded a total of 401 papers,which were added to the database.The total number of 148 and 208 papers were excluded from the database in the process of screening and eligibility,respectively.Then,18 papers were considered for data selection and full-text assessment.The review revealed that factors including geographic location,mine size,mining operation type,coal-seam thickness,coal rank,changes in mining practices,technology advancement,and engi-neering dust control practices are contributing to the recent resurgence of CWP among coal workers.However,the evidence for root causes is limited owing to the methodological constraints of the studies;therefore,further detailed studies are needed.展开更多
Case reports of indium-related lung disease in workers have raised public concern to the human toxicity of indium （In） and its compounds. However, studies evaluating the exposure or health of workers in In smelting ...Case reports of indium-related lung disease in workers have raised public concern to the human toxicity of indium （In） and its compounds. However, studies evaluating the exposure or health of workers in In smelting plants are rare. Therefore, in this study, we focused on four In smelting plants, with the main objective of characterizing In in smelter plants in China and discussing the potential exposure biomarkers of In exposure.展开更多
BACKGROUND Although minimal change disease(MCD)and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis(FSGS)have been described as two separate forms of nephrotic syndrome(NS),they are not completely independent.We report a case of a ...BACKGROUND Although minimal change disease(MCD)and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis(FSGS)have been described as two separate forms of nephrotic syndrome(NS),they are not completely independent.We report a case of a patient transitioning from MCD to FSGS,review the literature,and explore the relationship between the two diseases.CASE SUMMARY A 42-year-old male welder,presenting with lower extremity edema and elevated serum creatinine,was diagnosed with NS and end-stage kidney disease(ESKD)based on laboratory test results.The patient had undergone a kidney biopsy for NS 20 years previously,which indicated MCD,and a second recent kidney biopsy suggested FSGS.The patient was an electric welder with excessive levels of cadmium and lead in his blood.Consequently,we suspect that his aggravated pathology and occurrence of ESKD were related to metal nephrotoxicity.The patient eventually received kidney replacement therapy and quit his job which involved long-term exposure to metals.During the 1-year follow-up period,the patient was negative for metal elements in the blood and urine and recovered partial kidney function.CONCLUSION MCD and FSGS may be different stages of the same disease.The transition from MCD to FSGS in this case indicates disease progression,which may be related to excessive metal contaminants caused by the patient’s occupation.展开更多
Occupational exposure to flour dust within bakery environments presents significant health hazards to bakery personnel.Flour dust,generated as a byproduct during baking,becomes airborne during the baking process,thus ...Occupational exposure to flour dust within bakery environments presents significant health hazards to bakery personnel.Flour dust,generated as a byproduct during baking,becomes airborne during the baking process,thus constituting a respiratory threat.Adverse health consequences include respiratory diseases,skin irritation,allergic reactions,and potential long-term health impacts.Data indicates that a broad segment of bakery workers encounters exposure to flour dust,with specific subgroups,such as bakers and dough mixers,being particularly susceptible.Contributing factors to this exposure encompass insufficient ventilation and a lack of awareness.It is vital to assess exposure levels through air quality monitoring and health surveillance.Efficient interventions encompass engineering solutions(e.g.,ventilation systems,dust extraction),administrative measures(including training and the use of personal protective equipment),and the implementation of occupational health and safety programs.Collaborative efforts with healthcare professionals and regulatory authorities are paramount for achieving success.Case studies underscore the effectiveness of such interventions,resulting in improved worker health,thus underscoring the advantages of protective measures.Challenges in this endeavor include industry resistance to change,financial considerations,and issues related to compliance.Future recommendations entail further research,policy enhancements,and the involvement of industry stakeholders and labor unions in advocating for worker safety.展开更多
<strong>Context:</strong> Health Care Workers (HCWs) involved in field-level activities are exposed to COVID-19 which puts them under physical and psychological stress. <strong>Aim:</strong> Th...<strong>Context:</strong> Health Care Workers (HCWs) involved in field-level activities are exposed to COVID-19 which puts them under physical and psychological stress. <strong>Aim:</strong> The objective of this study was to understand the perception of the health care workers regarding their occupational exposure to COVID-19, including the safety measures used during field surveillance activities. <strong>Settings and Design:</strong> This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2020 to July 2020 among the health care workers involved in COVID-19 field containment activities in two south Indian states—Telangana and Tamil Nadu. <strong>Methods and Material:</strong> Respondents were purposively sampled based on their involvement in the COVID-19 field level activities. Sixteen In-Depth Interviewees (IDIs) were conducted telephonically with medical officers, district epidemiologists, community health workers, sanitary workers, emergency medical technicians, and ambulance coordinators.<strong> Statistical Analysis</strong> <strong>Used:</strong> IDIs were analyzed using manual thematic analysis. <strong>Results:</strong> Seven themes and sub-themes emerged: awareness and training, occupational exposure to COVID-19 and duration, safety measures, occupational burnout, social stigma, psychological violence, and facilitating factors. Respondents felt a high level of occupational exposure to COVID-19 in addition to increased workload and stress due to fear of infection, shortage of workforce, denial of week off, psychological violence, and social stigma which affected them deeply. Support from supervisors and family, and measures ensuring the safety of women were facilitating factors to cope with the situation. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> It is important to safeguard the general and mental health of field-level health workers involved in COVID-19 activities, to keep their morale high during the continuing pandemic.展开更多
Objective: to explore the nursing occupational exposure and protective measures in the supply room. Methods: the nursing staff in the supply room of our hospital from January 2019 to December 2020 was divided into gro...Objective: to explore the nursing occupational exposure and protective measures in the supply room. Methods: the nursing staff in the supply room of our hospital from January 2019 to December 2020 was divided into groups before and after the implementation of occupational protection. The control group (From January 2019 to December 2019) received routine nursing, and the experimental group (from January 2020 to December 2020) received occupational exposure protection. Satisfaction, occupational protection awareness score and occupational exposure rate were compared between the two groups. Results: the satisfaction of the experimental group was higher than the control group, the occupational protection awareness score was higher than the control group, the incidence of occupational exposure was lower than the control group, and there was a significant difference, P < 0.05. Conclusion: the implementation of occupational exposure protection in supply room can improve the awareness of occupational protection, reduce the occurrence of occupational exposure and improve the satisfaction of nursing staff.展开更多
What is occupational exposure to HIV?iaL exposure to HIV refers to a situation where medical personnel,during the course of diagnosis,treatment,or nursing care,accidentally come into contact with the blood or bodily f...What is occupational exposure to HIV?iaL exposure to HIV refers to a situation where medical personnel,during the course of diagnosis,treatment,or nursing care,accidentally come into contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an HIV-infected person or AIDS patient,resulting in contamination of the skin or mucous membranes.This also includes situations where health care personnel are pricked by a needle or other sharp instrument contaminated with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids,thus potentially contracting the virus.展开更多
With the ban of commercial Penta-BDEs, Octa-BDEs, and Deca-BDEs, many manufacturers have been transition to the production of novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs), organophosphate ester flame retardants (OPFRs), ...With the ban of commercial Penta-BDEs, Octa-BDEs, and Deca-BDEs, many manufacturers have been transition to the production of novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs), organophosphate ester flame retardants (OPFRs), and other alternatives. In this study, we recruited 165 employees with typical occupational exposure from a flame retardants (FRs) production plant in Laizhou Bay, which is the main FRs production area in China, to analyze the internal exposure characteristics of FRs and their potential impacts on thyroid function during the historical production and replacement process. The results showed that the detection frequencies of only triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), BDE-138 and BDE-197 (82.4 %, 61.2 % and 60.6 %, respectively) exceeded 60 % among the 34 compounds of interest, while the median concentrations of BDE-138 and BDE-197 were much higher than TPHP (medians of 103.6, 60.6 and 20.5 ng/g lw, respectively). In addition, the concentrations of these compounds in exposed group are higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The correlations among FRs indicated they mainly originated from the production and the debromination process. Overall, these results reflect the changes in the product structure. Free triiodothyronine (fT3) was moderately positively correlated with BDE-138, BDE-197, and TPHP (P < 0.05), and regression analysis further identified BDE-138 as a significant factor influencing fT3 levels. Despite TPHP having a rapid metabolism and short half-life, it was still widely detected in this study, indicating that future research should not only focus on the health risks of BDEs or their degradation products but also consider the health risks associated with TPHP and their mixed exposure, especially given the increasing production of OPFRs as substitutes.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the relationship between occupational X-ray exposure and cancer risk in medical X-ray diagnostic workers,a cohort study was conducted in medical X-ray diagnostic workers in Jiangsu province,Ch...Objective:To investigate the relationship between occupational X-ray exposure and cancer risk in medical X-ray diagnostic workers,a cohort study was conducted in medical X-ray diagnostic workers in Jiangsu province,China,based on Chinese Medical X-ray Workers Cohort,in order to provide scientific evidence for the improvement of occupational radiation protection in medical X-ray diagnostic workers.Methods:From 2011 to 2021,a retrospective cohort study was conducted in 2,984 medical X-ray diagnostic workers who worked in the radiology departments of all hospitals in Jiangsu during 1950–1980 and were alive by June 30,2011(radiation group)and 2,601 medical workers who worked in other departments of the same hospitals during the same period and were alive by June 30,2011(control group).Basic information and cancer incidence were collected from the study participants.The person-years of observation in the study participants during 2011–2021 was calculated.Cox regression model was used to calculate the relative risk for cancers such as solid cancer,lung cancer,and lymphomas in the radiation group after adjustment for sex,age,year of birth,and year to start working,and stratified analyses on the risks for total cancer and solid cancer in the radiation group were performed for confounders such as sex.Results:The total number of person-years of follow-up was 52,327,and the loss to follow-up rate was 3.15%.A total of 544 cancer cases were detected in follow-up during this period.Compared with the control group,the hazard ratio(HR)of total cancer was 1.13(95%CI:0.93–1.37),and the HR of solid cancer was 1.11(95%CI:0.91–1.36)in the radiation group.Compared with the control group,the radiation group had significantly higher risk for lymphoma(HR?10.36,95%CI:1.27–84.27).Stratified analyses showed that the medical X-ray workers who started to working before 1970 had higher risks for solid cancer(HR?1.26,95%CI:1.01–1.59)and total cancer(HR?1.29,95%CI:1.04–1.62)compared with those who started working after 1970.Conclusion:The risk for lymphoma was high in the medical X-ray workers in Jiangsu,suggesting that it is necessaryt to strengthen the occupational radiation protection for medical X-ray workers.展开更多
To investigate the effect of low-level occupational benzene exposure on human peripheral blood leukocyte counts of the workers,domestic and foreign published research data on the change of human peripheral blood leuko...To investigate the effect of low-level occupational benzene exposure on human peripheral blood leukocyte counts of the workers,domestic and foreign published research data on the change of human peripheral blood leukocyte counts under low-level occupational benzene exposure from January 1990 to December 2020 were collected and analyzed.According to the literature inclusion and exclusion criteria,18 independent studies from 12 publications were selected for meta-analysis to explore the effect of low-level occupational benzene exposure on human peripheral blood leukocyte counts.The results showed that the peripheral blood leukocyte counts abnormal rates of low-level occupational benzene exposure group were higher than those of the control group,and the difference was statistically significant.Low-level occupational benzene exposure could result in a relatively higher abnormal rate of peripheral blood leukocyte counts in the exposed population,indicating that low-level occupational benzene exposure at workplaces specified by the current benzene occupational exposure limit in China would affect the peripheral blood leukocyte counts of the workers,thus benzene with concentrations under the limit in the ambient air of workplace could be still harmful to the health of the exposed workers.The results of this study could provide a scientific basis for future revision of the benzene occupational exposure limit in China,and could also be a reference for the formulation of environmental standard concerning benzene in China in the future.展开更多
Objective To study the association between metal exposure and risk of diabetes and prediabetes among Chinese workers exposed to metals.Methods We used data obtained from the baseline survey of the Jinchang Cohort Stud...Objective To study the association between metal exposure and risk of diabetes and prediabetes among Chinese workers exposed to metals.Methods We used data obtained from the baseline survey of the Jinchang Cohort Study of workers in Jinchang Industry,the largest nickel production company in China.A total of 42,122 workers ≥20 years of age were included in the study.A standardized,structured questionnaire was used to collect epidemiological information.Physical examinations and laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate the health status of the participants and to measure various biomarkers including blood sugar,lipids,and urinary metal concentrations.Logistic regression was used to study the association between occupational groups categorized according to the measured metal levels(office workers,low-level;mining/production workers,mid-level;and smelting/refining workers,high-level)and risk of diabetes and prediabetes.Results The overall prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes was 7.5% and 16.8%,respectively.The adjusted odds ratios for diabetes among mining/production workers and smelting/refining workers compared to office workers were 1.5(95% CI:1.3,1.7)and 3.8(95% CI:3.4,4.3),respectively.No association was observed between these occupational groups and prediabetes in this study.Conclusion Occupations associated with higher levels of metal exposure were associated with an increased risk of diabetes in this cohort.More studies are needed to confirm this observed association.展开更多
Achieving effective municipal solid waste （MSW） management remains a major challenge and waste generation and accumulation continue to constitute important environmental and public health concern, particularly in mo...Achieving effective municipal solid waste （MSW） management remains a major challenge and waste generation and accumulation continue to constitute important environmental and public health concern, particularly in most developing countries. Although the general population is at risk of adverse health consequences and hazards associated with exposure to MSW, the waste management workers （WMWs） are the most vulnerable because of their direct involvement in the disposal of waste, with increasing evidence of work-related health and safety risks among these individuals. Among the numerous work-related health hazards prevalent in WMWs, development of toxic neuropathies following chronic occupational exposure remains poorly recognized. However, the risk or predisposition to toxic neuropathies is becoming evident considering the increasing recognition of large amount of neurotoxic heavy metals and hazardous industrial materials present in MSW in mostparts of the world. The present review seeks to draw attention to the continuous vulnerability of the WMWs to developing toxic neuropathies. This is aimed at facilitating conscious efforts by relevant governmental and non- governmental agencies towards promoting risk reduction and ensuring adequate protection against possible toxic polyneuropathies associated with occupational exposure to solid wastes. While continuous education of the WMWs on the need for adequate compliance to safety regulations and practice remains sacrosanct towards achieving significant reduction in toxic neuropathies and related adverse health consequences of waste handling, it is also our intention in this review to underscore the possible relevance of nutrient supplementation and alternative medicines in chemoprevention.展开更多
ObjectiveTo evaluate whole-body,extremity and eye-lens occupational dose equivalents of ionizing radiation to Occupationally Exposed Workers(OEWs)in Gabon,monitored by the national Individual Monitoring Service(IMS),i...ObjectiveTo evaluate whole-body,extremity and eye-lens occupational dose equivalents of ionizing radiation to Occupationally Exposed Workers(OEWs)in Gabon,monitored by the national Individual Monitoring Service(IMS),in the medical practice.MethodsA total of 816 dose records for 205 OEWs were evaluated.Doses were collected for an eight-year period,from 2013 to 2020.Twelve public and private hospitals were involved,including a cancer centre where radiotherapy(RT)and nuclear medicine(NM)procedures are regularly performed.OEWs were monitored,on a monthly or quarterly basis,for whole-body dose and extremity dose using an optically stimulated luminescence(OSL)dosimeter worn on the torso or the wrist,as appropriate.Eye-lens dose was estimated from whole-body dose results.ResultsThe whole-body dose distribution was skewed and the zero dose was associated with a probability of 47%.Some recorded doses were associated with estimated X-ray energies above those typically encountered in diagnostic radiology,thus suggesting that some doses attributed to workers and believed to be due to X-rays may in fact be due to background radiation(false positive dose records).For the period 2013–2020,annual doses to OEWs in diagnostic radiology(DR),NM and RT departments were 0.40 mSv,0.38 mSv and 0.09 mSv,respectively.For the same period,the mean annual extremity and eye-lens doses were 0.78 mSv(range:0–5.24mSv)and 0.35 mSv(range:0–3.74mSv),respectively.ConclusionWith little effort by the national IMS and the regulatory body,annual whole-body doses to workers can be kept well below 6mSv,thus efficiently contributing to the optimization of worker's protection.However,extremity doses may in fact be greater than those reported for OEWs in the NM department.Finally,eye-lens doses were well below the new annual dose limit of 20 mSv,thus demonstrating that,in the current situation,OEWs in the NM department do not require routine eye lens dose monitoring.Rather,whole-body dose may be used as an indicator of eye-lens dose.展开更多
The annex D of the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation(UNSCEAR)2020/2021 Report presented a comprehensive global estimate of occupational exposure to ionizing radiation.The worldwide...The annex D of the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation(UNSCEAR)2020/2021 Report presented a comprehensive global estimate of occupational exposure to ionizing radiation.The worldwide annual number of workers exposed to natural and human-made sources of ionizing radiation was estimated to be approximately 24 million in the period 2010-2014.About 52% of those were employed in the sectors that involve exposure to natural sources of radiation.The worldwide average annual effective dose for all workers during the period 2010-2014 was estimated to be around 1.2 mSv-about two thirds of the value estimated for the period 1995-1999.The annual effective dose was estimated to be around 2.0 mSv for workers exposed to natural sources and 0.5 mSv for workers exposed to human-made sources.The overriding limitation of current evaluation was the low rate of participation by United Nations Member States in providing occupational exposure monitoring data,especially data from non-nuclear sectors and occupational sectors involving naturally occurring radioactive materials.As the assessment of the worldwide occupational exposure is a complex task,the Committee relies on the collection of up-to-date data on occupational exposure from United Nations Member States in a broad range of occupational sectors,and continues collaboration with international organizations.展开更多
Despite wide application of hydrated calcium sulfate, possible respiratory effects of long-term occupational exposure to high concentrations of this chemical have only been investigated in a limited number of epidemio...Despite wide application of hydrated calcium sulfate, possible respiratory effects of long-term occupational exposure to high concentrations of this chemical have only been investigated in a limited number of epidemiological studies. This study is undertaken to examine this issue, more thoroughly. This cross-sectional study is carried out at a local gypsum plant in Shiraz, capital of Fars province situated in south western Iran. All exposed subjects (20 male workers) and 20 healthy non-exposed male individuals as the referent group are investigated. Prevalence of respiratory symptoms among the studied subjects is evaluated and they undergo spirometry test (twice for the exposed group and once for the unexposed employees). Moreover, to assess the extent to which workers are exposed to gypsum dust and using standard methods, inhalable and respirable fractions of this compound are measured in different dusty worksites. Average airborne concentration of inhalable dust fraction is estimated to be 24 ± 14.76 mg/m3 which is higher than the recommended threshold limit value (TLV) for this chemical. Respiratory symptoms such as phlegm, wheezing and dyspnea are significantly more prevalent in exposed subjects than in non-exposed employees (p < 0.05). The results of ventilatory function tests (pre- shift) don’t show any significant differences between both groups. However, some post-shift parameters of ventilatory function such as FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC ratio are significantly lower than those of preshift and referent group. Exposure to high atmospheric concentrations of gypsum dust is associated with a significant increase in the prevalence of respiratory symptoms along with acute reversible significant decreases in some parameters of ventilatory function.展开更多
Objective To investigate the effect of occupational exposure to coal tar pitch on workers’health and metabolism.Methods 805 workers exposed to coal tar pitch were selected as exposure group from the factory.Other peo...Objective To investigate the effect of occupational exposure to coal tar pitch on workers’health and metabolism.Methods 805 workers exposed to coal tar pitch were selected as exposure group from the factory.Other people handle administrative and logistical affairs who not exposed to coal tar pitch were selected as control group.展开更多
文摘Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the most common type of liver cancer.The main risk factors for HCC are alcoholism,hepatitis B virus,hepatitis C virus,nonalcoholic steatohepatitis,obesity,type 2 diabetes,cirrhosis,aflatoxin,hemochromatosis,Wilson’s disease and hemophilia.Occupational exposure to chemicals is another risk factor for HCC.Often the relationship between occupational risk and HCC is unclear and the reports are fragmented and inconsistent.This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the association of infective and non-infective occupational risk exposure and HCC in order to encourage further research and draw attention to this global occupational public health problem.
基金supported by the Occupational Health Standards Program (20100304) from Ministry of Health of China
文摘This study aims to establish the occupational exposure limit （OEL） in the air for workplace of warfarin based on the available toxicological studies and field investigations by using questionnaire and air monitoring. The clinical therapeutic dose was used as lowest observed effect level （LOEL）, and no observed effect level （NOEL） was achieved by using a safety factor. The highest concentration of warfarin monitored in the worksite of centrifuge washing, drying and packing were 0.029 mg/m3, 0.052 mg/m3 respectively, which did not exceed the OEL 0.2 mg/m3 recommended by NIOSH and ACGIH. Considering its feasibility for enforcement and protection for workers, we recommend OEL 0.2 mg/m3 of warfarin in China.
文摘A traditional belief widespread across the biomedical community was that dietary habits and genetic predisposition were the basic factors causing colorectal cancer.In more recent times,however,a growing evidence has shown that other determinants can be very important in increasing(or reducing) incidence of this malignancy.The hypothesis that environmental and occupational risk factors are associated with colorectal cancer is gaining ground,and high risks of colorectal cancer have been reported among workers in some industrial branches.The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiologic relationship between colorectal cancer and occupational exposures to several industrial activities,by means of a scientific literature review and meta-analysis.This work pointed out increased risks of colorectal cancer for labourers occupied in industries with a wide use of chemical compounds,such as leather(RR = 1.70,95%CI:1.24-2.34),basic metals(RR = 1.32,95%CI:1.07-1.65),plastic and rubber manufacturing(RR = 1.30,95%CI:0.98-1.71 and RR = 1.27,95%CI:0.92-1.76,respectively),besides workers in the sector of repair and installation of machinery exposed to asbestos(RR = 1.40,95%CI:1.07-1.84).Based on our results,the estimated crude excess risk fraction attributable to occupational exposure ranged from about 11% to about 15%.However,homogeneous pattern of association between colorectal cancer and industrial branches did not emerge from this review.
基金funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) (75D30119C06390).
文摘Cumulative inhalation of respirable coal mine dust(RCMD)can lead to severe lung diseases,including coal worker's pneu-moconiosis(CWP),silicosis,mixed dust pneumoconiosis,dust-related diffuse fibrosis(DDF),and progressive massive fibrosis(PMF).Statistics from the number of reported cases showed a significant decrease in the progression of respiratory diseases in the 1990s.However,an unexpected increase in the number of CWP cases was reported in the late 1990s.To date,there has been no comprehensive systematic review to assess all contributing factors to the resurgence of CWP cases.This study aims to investigate the effects of various mining parameters on the prevalence of CWP in coal mines.A systematic review using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis(PRISMA)method was conducted to investigate the health effects of RCMD exposure and identify the factors that may contribute to the recent resurgence of CWP cases.The systematic review yielded a total of 401 papers,which were added to the database.The total number of 148 and 208 papers were excluded from the database in the process of screening and eligibility,respectively.Then,18 papers were considered for data selection and full-text assessment.The review revealed that factors including geographic location,mine size,mining operation type,coal-seam thickness,coal rank,changes in mining practices,technology advancement,and engi-neering dust control practices are contributing to the recent resurgence of CWP among coal workers.However,the evidence for root causes is limited owing to the methodological constraints of the studies;therefore,further detailed studies are needed.
基金supported by the Public Welfare Special Projects of National Health and Family Planning Commission of the People’s Republic of China(No.201402021)The ‘Twelfth Five-Year Plan’ of the National Science and Technology Support(No.2014BAI12B01)
文摘Case reports of indium-related lung disease in workers have raised public concern to the human toxicity of indium （In） and its compounds. However, studies evaluating the exposure or health of workers in In smelting plants are rare. Therefore, in this study, we focused on four In smelting plants, with the main objective of characterizing In in smelter plants in China and discussing the potential exposure biomarkers of In exposure.
文摘BACKGROUND Although minimal change disease(MCD)and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis(FSGS)have been described as two separate forms of nephrotic syndrome(NS),they are not completely independent.We report a case of a patient transitioning from MCD to FSGS,review the literature,and explore the relationship between the two diseases.CASE SUMMARY A 42-year-old male welder,presenting with lower extremity edema and elevated serum creatinine,was diagnosed with NS and end-stage kidney disease(ESKD)based on laboratory test results.The patient had undergone a kidney biopsy for NS 20 years previously,which indicated MCD,and a second recent kidney biopsy suggested FSGS.The patient was an electric welder with excessive levels of cadmium and lead in his blood.Consequently,we suspect that his aggravated pathology and occurrence of ESKD were related to metal nephrotoxicity.The patient eventually received kidney replacement therapy and quit his job which involved long-term exposure to metals.During the 1-year follow-up period,the patient was negative for metal elements in the blood and urine and recovered partial kidney function.CONCLUSION MCD and FSGS may be different stages of the same disease.The transition from MCD to FSGS in this case indicates disease progression,which may be related to excessive metal contaminants caused by the patient’s occupation.
文摘Occupational exposure to flour dust within bakery environments presents significant health hazards to bakery personnel.Flour dust,generated as a byproduct during baking,becomes airborne during the baking process,thus constituting a respiratory threat.Adverse health consequences include respiratory diseases,skin irritation,allergic reactions,and potential long-term health impacts.Data indicates that a broad segment of bakery workers encounters exposure to flour dust,with specific subgroups,such as bakers and dough mixers,being particularly susceptible.Contributing factors to this exposure encompass insufficient ventilation and a lack of awareness.It is vital to assess exposure levels through air quality monitoring and health surveillance.Efficient interventions encompass engineering solutions(e.g.,ventilation systems,dust extraction),administrative measures(including training and the use of personal protective equipment),and the implementation of occupational health and safety programs.Collaborative efforts with healthcare professionals and regulatory authorities are paramount for achieving success.Case studies underscore the effectiveness of such interventions,resulting in improved worker health,thus underscoring the advantages of protective measures.Challenges in this endeavor include industry resistance to change,financial considerations,and issues related to compliance.Future recommendations entail further research,policy enhancements,and the involvement of industry stakeholders and labor unions in advocating for worker safety.
文摘<strong>Context:</strong> Health Care Workers (HCWs) involved in field-level activities are exposed to COVID-19 which puts them under physical and psychological stress. <strong>Aim:</strong> The objective of this study was to understand the perception of the health care workers regarding their occupational exposure to COVID-19, including the safety measures used during field surveillance activities. <strong>Settings and Design:</strong> This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2020 to July 2020 among the health care workers involved in COVID-19 field containment activities in two south Indian states—Telangana and Tamil Nadu. <strong>Methods and Material:</strong> Respondents were purposively sampled based on their involvement in the COVID-19 field level activities. Sixteen In-Depth Interviewees (IDIs) were conducted telephonically with medical officers, district epidemiologists, community health workers, sanitary workers, emergency medical technicians, and ambulance coordinators.<strong> Statistical Analysis</strong> <strong>Used:</strong> IDIs were analyzed using manual thematic analysis. <strong>Results:</strong> Seven themes and sub-themes emerged: awareness and training, occupational exposure to COVID-19 and duration, safety measures, occupational burnout, social stigma, psychological violence, and facilitating factors. Respondents felt a high level of occupational exposure to COVID-19 in addition to increased workload and stress due to fear of infection, shortage of workforce, denial of week off, psychological violence, and social stigma which affected them deeply. Support from supervisors and family, and measures ensuring the safety of women were facilitating factors to cope with the situation. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> It is important to safeguard the general and mental health of field-level health workers involved in COVID-19 activities, to keep their morale high during the continuing pandemic.
文摘Objective: to explore the nursing occupational exposure and protective measures in the supply room. Methods: the nursing staff in the supply room of our hospital from January 2019 to December 2020 was divided into groups before and after the implementation of occupational protection. The control group (From January 2019 to December 2019) received routine nursing, and the experimental group (from January 2020 to December 2020) received occupational exposure protection. Satisfaction, occupational protection awareness score and occupational exposure rate were compared between the two groups. Results: the satisfaction of the experimental group was higher than the control group, the occupational protection awareness score was higher than the control group, the incidence of occupational exposure was lower than the control group, and there was a significant difference, P < 0.05. Conclusion: the implementation of occupational exposure protection in supply room can improve the awareness of occupational protection, reduce the occurrence of occupational exposure and improve the satisfaction of nursing staff.
文摘What is occupational exposure to HIV?iaL exposure to HIV refers to a situation where medical personnel,during the course of diagnosis,treatment,or nursing care,accidentally come into contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an HIV-infected person or AIDS patient,resulting in contamination of the skin or mucous membranes.This also includes situations where health care personnel are pricked by a needle or other sharp instrument contaminated with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids,thus potentially contracting the virus.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.22106091)the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province,China(Grant No.ZR2021QB126)the State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control(No.18K04ESPCT).
文摘With the ban of commercial Penta-BDEs, Octa-BDEs, and Deca-BDEs, many manufacturers have been transition to the production of novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs), organophosphate ester flame retardants (OPFRs), and other alternatives. In this study, we recruited 165 employees with typical occupational exposure from a flame retardants (FRs) production plant in Laizhou Bay, which is the main FRs production area in China, to analyze the internal exposure characteristics of FRs and their potential impacts on thyroid function during the historical production and replacement process. The results showed that the detection frequencies of only triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), BDE-138 and BDE-197 (82.4 %, 61.2 % and 60.6 %, respectively) exceeded 60 % among the 34 compounds of interest, while the median concentrations of BDE-138 and BDE-197 were much higher than TPHP (medians of 103.6, 60.6 and 20.5 ng/g lw, respectively). In addition, the concentrations of these compounds in exposed group are higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The correlations among FRs indicated they mainly originated from the production and the debromination process. Overall, these results reflect the changes in the product structure. Free triiodothyronine (fT3) was moderately positively correlated with BDE-138, BDE-197, and TPHP (P < 0.05), and regression analysis further identified BDE-138 as a significant factor influencing fT3 levels. Despite TPHP having a rapid metabolism and short half-life, it was still widely detected in this study, indicating that future research should not only focus on the health risks of BDEs or their degradation products but also consider the health risks associated with TPHP and their mixed exposure, especially given the increasing production of OPFRs as substitutes.
基金supported by the CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Science(2021-I2M-1–042)China and fund for the Key Medical Disciplines of Jiangsu Province(JSZJ20232201),China.
文摘Objective:To investigate the relationship between occupational X-ray exposure and cancer risk in medical X-ray diagnostic workers,a cohort study was conducted in medical X-ray diagnostic workers in Jiangsu province,China,based on Chinese Medical X-ray Workers Cohort,in order to provide scientific evidence for the improvement of occupational radiation protection in medical X-ray diagnostic workers.Methods:From 2011 to 2021,a retrospective cohort study was conducted in 2,984 medical X-ray diagnostic workers who worked in the radiology departments of all hospitals in Jiangsu during 1950–1980 and were alive by June 30,2011(radiation group)and 2,601 medical workers who worked in other departments of the same hospitals during the same period and were alive by June 30,2011(control group).Basic information and cancer incidence were collected from the study participants.The person-years of observation in the study participants during 2011–2021 was calculated.Cox regression model was used to calculate the relative risk for cancers such as solid cancer,lung cancer,and lymphomas in the radiation group after adjustment for sex,age,year of birth,and year to start working,and stratified analyses on the risks for total cancer and solid cancer in the radiation group were performed for confounders such as sex.Results:The total number of person-years of follow-up was 52,327,and the loss to follow-up rate was 3.15%.A total of 544 cancer cases were detected in follow-up during this period.Compared with the control group,the hazard ratio(HR)of total cancer was 1.13(95%CI:0.93–1.37),and the HR of solid cancer was 1.11(95%CI:0.91–1.36)in the radiation group.Compared with the control group,the radiation group had significantly higher risk for lymphoma(HR?10.36,95%CI:1.27–84.27).Stratified analyses showed that the medical X-ray workers who started to working before 1970 had higher risks for solid cancer(HR?1.26,95%CI:1.01–1.59)and total cancer(HR?1.29,95%CI:1.04–1.62)compared with those who started working after 1970.Conclusion:The risk for lymphoma was high in the medical X-ray workers in Jiangsu,suggesting that it is necessaryt to strengthen the occupational radiation protection for medical X-ray workers.
基金financially supported by the programs from the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission(No.Z181100005418015)the Special Research Project for the National Environmental Protection Public Welfare Industry of China(No.201009032)the Finance Allocation Project of Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China(No.2110105)
文摘To investigate the effect of low-level occupational benzene exposure on human peripheral blood leukocyte counts of the workers,domestic and foreign published research data on the change of human peripheral blood leukocyte counts under low-level occupational benzene exposure from January 1990 to December 2020 were collected and analyzed.According to the literature inclusion and exclusion criteria,18 independent studies from 12 publications were selected for meta-analysis to explore the effect of low-level occupational benzene exposure on human peripheral blood leukocyte counts.The results showed that the peripheral blood leukocyte counts abnormal rates of low-level occupational benzene exposure group were higher than those of the control group,and the difference was statistically significant.Low-level occupational benzene exposure could result in a relatively higher abnormal rate of peripheral blood leukocyte counts in the exposed population,indicating that low-level occupational benzene exposure at workplaces specified by the current benzene occupational exposure limit in China would affect the peripheral blood leukocyte counts of the workers,thus benzene with concentrations under the limit in the ambient air of workplace could be still harmful to the health of the exposed workers.The results of this study could provide a scientific basis for future revision of the benzene occupational exposure limit in China,and could also be a reference for the formulation of environmental standard concerning benzene in China in the future.
基金supported by the Project of Employees Health Status and Disease Burden Trend Study in Jinchuan Nonferrous Metals Corporation,Grant JKB20120013Fogarty training grants D43TW 008323 and D43TW 007864-01 from the US National Institutes of Health
文摘Objective To study the association between metal exposure and risk of diabetes and prediabetes among Chinese workers exposed to metals.Methods We used data obtained from the baseline survey of the Jinchang Cohort Study of workers in Jinchang Industry,the largest nickel production company in China.A total of 42,122 workers ≥20 years of age were included in the study.A standardized,structured questionnaire was used to collect epidemiological information.Physical examinations and laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate the health status of the participants and to measure various biomarkers including blood sugar,lipids,and urinary metal concentrations.Logistic regression was used to study the association between occupational groups categorized according to the measured metal levels(office workers,low-level;mining/production workers,mid-level;and smelting/refining workers,high-level)and risk of diabetes and prediabetes.Results The overall prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes was 7.5% and 16.8%,respectively.The adjusted odds ratios for diabetes among mining/production workers and smelting/refining workers compared to office workers were 1.5(95% CI:1.3,1.7)and 3.8(95% CI:3.4,4.3),respectively.No association was observed between these occupational groups and prediabetes in this study.Conclusion Occupations associated with higher levels of metal exposure were associated with an increased risk of diabetes in this cohort.More studies are needed to confirm this observed association.
文摘Achieving effective municipal solid waste （MSW） management remains a major challenge and waste generation and accumulation continue to constitute important environmental and public health concern, particularly in most developing countries. Although the general population is at risk of adverse health consequences and hazards associated with exposure to MSW, the waste management workers （WMWs） are the most vulnerable because of their direct involvement in the disposal of waste, with increasing evidence of work-related health and safety risks among these individuals. Among the numerous work-related health hazards prevalent in WMWs, development of toxic neuropathies following chronic occupational exposure remains poorly recognized. However, the risk or predisposition to toxic neuropathies is becoming evident considering the increasing recognition of large amount of neurotoxic heavy metals and hazardous industrial materials present in MSW in mostparts of the world. The present review seeks to draw attention to the continuous vulnerability of the WMWs to developing toxic neuropathies. This is aimed at facilitating conscious efforts by relevant governmental and non- governmental agencies towards promoting risk reduction and ensuring adequate protection against possible toxic polyneuropathies associated with occupational exposure to solid wastes. While continuous education of the WMWs on the need for adequate compliance to safety regulations and practice remains sacrosanct towards achieving significant reduction in toxic neuropathies and related adverse health consequences of waste handling, it is also our intention in this review to underscore the possible relevance of nutrient supplementation and alternative medicines in chemoprevention.
基金This work has received operational support from the National Regulatory Authority of Gabon.
文摘ObjectiveTo evaluate whole-body,extremity and eye-lens occupational dose equivalents of ionizing radiation to Occupationally Exposed Workers(OEWs)in Gabon,monitored by the national Individual Monitoring Service(IMS),in the medical practice.MethodsA total of 816 dose records for 205 OEWs were evaluated.Doses were collected for an eight-year period,from 2013 to 2020.Twelve public and private hospitals were involved,including a cancer centre where radiotherapy(RT)and nuclear medicine(NM)procedures are regularly performed.OEWs were monitored,on a monthly or quarterly basis,for whole-body dose and extremity dose using an optically stimulated luminescence(OSL)dosimeter worn on the torso or the wrist,as appropriate.Eye-lens dose was estimated from whole-body dose results.ResultsThe whole-body dose distribution was skewed and the zero dose was associated with a probability of 47%.Some recorded doses were associated with estimated X-ray energies above those typically encountered in diagnostic radiology,thus suggesting that some doses attributed to workers and believed to be due to X-rays may in fact be due to background radiation(false positive dose records).For the period 2013–2020,annual doses to OEWs in diagnostic radiology(DR),NM and RT departments were 0.40 mSv,0.38 mSv and 0.09 mSv,respectively.For the same period,the mean annual extremity and eye-lens doses were 0.78 mSv(range:0–5.24mSv)and 0.35 mSv(range:0–3.74mSv),respectively.ConclusionWith little effort by the national IMS and the regulatory body,annual whole-body doses to workers can be kept well below 6mSv,thus efficiently contributing to the optimization of worker's protection.However,extremity doses may in fact be greater than those reported for OEWs in the NM department.Finally,eye-lens doses were well below the new annual dose limit of 20 mSv,thus demonstrating that,in the current situation,OEWs in the NM department do not require routine eye lens dose monitoring.Rather,whole-body dose may be used as an indicator of eye-lens dose.
文摘The annex D of the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation(UNSCEAR)2020/2021 Report presented a comprehensive global estimate of occupational exposure to ionizing radiation.The worldwide annual number of workers exposed to natural and human-made sources of ionizing radiation was estimated to be approximately 24 million in the period 2010-2014.About 52% of those were employed in the sectors that involve exposure to natural sources of radiation.The worldwide average annual effective dose for all workers during the period 2010-2014 was estimated to be around 1.2 mSv-about two thirds of the value estimated for the period 1995-1999.The annual effective dose was estimated to be around 2.0 mSv for workers exposed to natural sources and 0.5 mSv for workers exposed to human-made sources.The overriding limitation of current evaluation was the low rate of participation by United Nations Member States in providing occupational exposure monitoring data,especially data from non-nuclear sectors and occupational sectors involving naturally occurring radioactive materials.As the assessment of the worldwide occupational exposure is a complex task,the Committee relies on the collection of up-to-date data on occupational exposure from United Nations Member States in a broad range of occupational sectors,and continues collaboration with international organizations.
文摘Despite wide application of hydrated calcium sulfate, possible respiratory effects of long-term occupational exposure to high concentrations of this chemical have only been investigated in a limited number of epidemiological studies. This study is undertaken to examine this issue, more thoroughly. This cross-sectional study is carried out at a local gypsum plant in Shiraz, capital of Fars province situated in south western Iran. All exposed subjects (20 male workers) and 20 healthy non-exposed male individuals as the referent group are investigated. Prevalence of respiratory symptoms among the studied subjects is evaluated and they undergo spirometry test (twice for the exposed group and once for the unexposed employees). Moreover, to assess the extent to which workers are exposed to gypsum dust and using standard methods, inhalable and respirable fractions of this compound are measured in different dusty worksites. Average airborne concentration of inhalable dust fraction is estimated to be 24 ± 14.76 mg/m3 which is higher than the recommended threshold limit value (TLV) for this chemical. Respiratory symptoms such as phlegm, wheezing and dyspnea are significantly more prevalent in exposed subjects than in non-exposed employees (p < 0.05). The results of ventilatory function tests (pre- shift) don’t show any significant differences between both groups. However, some post-shift parameters of ventilatory function such as FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC ratio are significantly lower than those of preshift and referent group. Exposure to high atmospheric concentrations of gypsum dust is associated with a significant increase in the prevalence of respiratory symptoms along with acute reversible significant decreases in some parameters of ventilatory function.
文摘Objective To investigate the effect of occupational exposure to coal tar pitch on workers’health and metabolism.Methods 805 workers exposed to coal tar pitch were selected as exposure group from the factory.Other people handle administrative and logistical affairs who not exposed to coal tar pitch were selected as control group.
