scholarly journals Managing occupational health among goldminers in Ghana: Modelling the likelihood of experiencing occupational related health problems

PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (7) ◽  
pp. e0254449
Author(s):  
Simon Appah Aram
Keyword(s):  
Occupational Health ◽  
Working Conditions ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Mining Industry ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Independent Effect ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Binary Logistic Regression Model ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional

Background The importance of goldmining to Ghana’s development cannot be overestimated. However, the associated morbidities and mortalities resulting from occupational exposure to health hazards and the general cost associated with it is critical. In managing occupational health, a simple comprehension of the main determinants of the problem is required. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 504 goldminers was fitted to a nested binary logistic regression model to evaluate the independent effect of subsector departments, compositional attributes, contextual factors and working conditions on goldminers’ likelihood of experiencing occupational related health problems. Results Subsector department was robust and persisted in predicting experiencing occupational related health problems in all three models. Goldminers who were in artisanal small scale (ASM) non-production, large scale (LSM) production and LSM non-production were less likely to experience occupational related health problems as compared to their counterparts in ASM production. For the compositional factors, female goldminers were more likely to experience occupational related health problems as compared to their male co-workers. Goldminers who were married and also older miners were more likely to experience occupational related health problems as compared to the unmarried and the relatively younger goldminers. At the contextual level, miners who worked on shift-based schedule and also miners who lived close to mine sites were more likely to experience occupational related health problems. Among the working conditions, goldminers who worked in good health conditions were less likely to experience occupational related health problems. Surprisingly, goldminers who rated their safety conditions as good were more likely to experience occupational related health problems. Conclusion Gold miners are exposed to different health risk scenarios across subsectors and departments. These conditions need critical attention and action from industry stakeholders. Programs that promote self-care culture should be promoted, especially in the ASM subsector. PPE’s could be relied on for protection in the mining industry but they should be the last line of defense and not to replace preventive measures and actions.

scholarly journals Neurobehavioural symptoms and acute pesticide poisoning: a cross-sectional study among male pesticide applicators selected from three commercial farming systems in Ethiopia

2018 ◽  
Vol 75 (4) ◽  
pp. 283-289 ◽  
Author(s):  
Beyene Negatu ◽  
Roel Vermeulen ◽  
Yalemtshay Mekonnen ◽  
Hans Kromhout
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Pesticide Exposure ◽  
Farming Systems ◽  
Cumulative Exposure ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Pesticide Poisoning ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Pesticide Applicators ◽  
Acute Pesticide Poisoning

ObjectiveTo estimate prevalence of acute pesticide poisoning (APP) and its association with neurobehavioural symptoms in Ethiopian pesticide applicators.MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional survey among 256 pesticide applicators from small-scale irrigated farms, a large-scale open farm and large-scale greenhouses. APP was ascertained using a modified WHO case definition, and neurobehavioural symptoms were collected with a standardised questionnaire (Q16). Exposure to pesticides was estimated using detailed exposure algorithms specifically developed for Ethiopian farms. Multiple logistic regression models were used to estimate risk of APP and its association with neurobehavioural symptoms.ResultsOverall APP prevalence was 16%. Working as an applicator in greenhouses was strongly associated with APP (OR 3.00, 95% CI 1.38 to 6.54). Estimated annual pesticide exposure was also associated with APP (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.20). Longer duration of employment appeared to be negatively associated with APP. Having had an APP was strongly associated with reporting more neurobehavioural symptoms (OR 2.15, 95% CI 1.01 to 4.58) independent of cumulative pesticide exposure. Cumulative exposure to pesticides appeared to be associated with neurobehavioural symptoms among applicators without and with APP.ConclusionsWe showed a substantial prevalence of APP that differed between farming systems and was strongly associated with neurobehavioural symptoms. Intensity of exposure was also clearly associated with these symptoms. Reduction and control of occupational exposure to pesticides is urgently needed in Ethiopia.

scholarly journals Occupational Health Problems of Construction Workers in Valley of Kashmir

2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Sarwar Mir
Keyword(s):  
Occupational Health ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Skin Diseases ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Construction Workers ◽  
Protective Measure ◽  
Occupational Health Services ◽  
Construction Site ◽  
Accidental Injury ◽  
Cross Sectional

Occupational risks have been classed as the tenth leading cause of morbidity and mortality and occupational skin diseases are important problem in the construction industries. Aim: The aim of this study is to understand the occupational health problems of construction workers engaged at large construction site in Kashmir. Materials and methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at a large scale construction site of a cement factory on outskirts of Srinagar.All workers (N=200) were enrolled as study subjects. Data was collected by the team consisting of investigators, doctors and social worker using a pre tested validated structured preformed. Result: Among 200 workers only 28.0% used protective measure and 70% had suffered with at least one form of disease. Among them different diseases were found in following percentages i.e. respiratory problems (45.7%), musculo-skelekal problems (32.8%), Dermatitis (78.6%), burn/scald (6.6%) and accidental injury (28.6%). Conclusion: Measures are needed to improve the work environment of construction workers by ensuring availability of protective gears, sanitation facilities at the sites along with an accessible, accountable occupational health services

scholarly journals FARM SIZE EFFICIENCY DIFFERENTIALS OF BIO-FORTIFIED CASSAVA PRODUCTION IN NIGERIA: A STOCHASTIC FRONTIER ANALYSIS APPROACH

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 51-60
Author(s):  
Kolapo Adetomiwa ◽  
Raji Ibraheem Adeyemi ◽  
Falana Kayode ◽  
Muhammed Opeyemi Abdulmumin
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Stochastic Frontier Analysis ◽  
Stochastic Frontier ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Frontier Analysis ◽  
Cassava Production ◽  
Size Efficiency

The study specifically investigated farm size efficiency differentials of bio-fortified cassava production in Nigeria. Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey of bio-fortified cassava producers in Nigeria. The estimated coefficients of the parameters of production variables for small scale bio-fortified cassava farm size (land, herbicide and fertilizer) played a major role in bio-fortified cassava production on a small scale in Nigeria. For the medium and large scale bio-fortified cassava farm size, production variables (land, labor and fertilizer) and (land, labor, herbicide and fertilizer) respectively played a major role in bio-fortified cassava production. The average economic efficiency of the small, medium and large scale bio-fortified cassava producers was 42%, 54% and 63% respectively. Policies intended to increase the popularization and cultivation of bio-fortified cassava in Nigeria should be targeted toward the small and medium scale cassava farmers since they carried the majority of the producer of bio-fortified cassava in Nigeria.

MEASURING THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON AFRICAN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

2010 ◽  
Vol 01 (01) ◽  
pp. 33-55 ◽  
Author(s):  
CHARLES NHEMACHENA ◽  
RASHID HASSAN ◽  
PRADEEP KURUKULASURIYA
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
Agricultural Production ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Policy Implications ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Livestock Farming ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Mixed Crop

This study measured the economic impacts of climate change on crop and livestock farming in Africa based on a cross-sectional survey of over 8000 farming households from 11 countries in east, west, north and southern Africa. The response of net revenue from crop and livestock agriculture across various farm types and systems in Africa to changes in climate normals (i.e. mean rainfall and temperature) is analysed. The analyses controlled for effects of key socioeconomic, technology, soil and hydrological factors influencing agricultural production. Results show that net farm revenues are in general negatively affected by warmer and drier climates. The small-scale mixed crop and livestock system predominantly typical in Africa is the most tolerant whereas specialized crop production is the most vulnerable to warming and lower rainfall. These results have important policy implications, especially for the suitability of the increasing tendency toward large-scale mono-cropping strategies for agricultural development in Africa and other parts of the developing world in light of expected climate changes. Mixed crop and livestock farming and irrigation offered better adaptation options for farmers against further warming and drying predicted under various future climate scenarios.

Knowledge and awareness about MERS-CoV among the dental students in Chennai

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (SPL1) ◽  
pp. 847-851
Author(s):  
Nithyanandham Masilamani ◽  
Dhanraj Ganapathy
Keyword(s):  
College Students ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Preventive Measures ◽  
Positive Impact ◽  
Educational Programs ◽  
Dental Students ◽  
Professional Organizations ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Mode Of Transmission

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) induced by new ß coronavirus MERS-(CoV) had first been described in Saudi Arabia in September 2012. MERS-CoV communication inside the population is often identified with clustered households and cramped communal spaces. The purpose of the study is to assess the knowledge and awareness of MERS-CoV among dental students in India. This was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey of 100 dental college students in Chennai. The self-designed questionnaires contained ten questions focused on the knowledge and awareness of MERS-CoV amongst dental college students. Questionnaires were circulated through an online website survey planet. After the responses were received from 100 participants, data were collected and analyzed, .87% are aware of MERS-CoV through media 13% from professional channels. 84%are aware of the clinical manifestation of MERS-CoV. 81%Are aware of the mode of transmission of MERS-CoV. 76%are aware of the preventive measures against MERS -CoV.68%. Are aware of the incubation period of MERS-CoV. 74%aware of PCR as a diagnostic test for MERS-CoV. This study concluded that dental students had strong awareness and knowledge of MERS. Also, there are a few differences in information and behaviours that require change. Large-scale health educational programs on MERS also should be facilitated by professional organizations to expand their reach and to strengthen knowledge to have a positive impact on their behaviour.

scholarly journals Public Health Workforce Burnout in the COVID-19 Response in the U.S.

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (8) ◽  
pp. 4369
Author(s):  
Kahler W. Stone ◽  
Kristina W. Kintziger ◽  
Meredith A. Jagger ◽  
Jennifer A. Horney
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Health Workforce ◽  
Work Experience ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Public Health Workforce ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Public Health Response ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
The U.S

While the health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on frontline health care workers have been well described, the effects of the COVID-19 response on the U.S. public health workforce, which has been impacted by the prolonged public health response to the pandemic, has not been adequately characterized. A cross-sectional survey of public health professionals was conducted to assess mental and physical health, risk and protective factors for burnout, and short- and long-term career decisions during the pandemic response. The survey was completed online using the Qualtrics survey platform. Descriptive statistics and prevalence ratios (95% confidence intervals) were calculated. Among responses received from 23 August and 11 September 2020, 66.2% of public health workers reported burnout. Those with more work experience (1–4 vs. <1 years: prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.90, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.08−3.36; 5–9 vs. <1 years: PR = 1.89, CI = 1.07−3.34) or working in academic settings (vs. practice: PR = 1.31, CI = 1.08–1.58) were most likely to report burnout. As of September 2020, 23.6% fewer respondents planned to remain in the U.S. public health workforce for three or more years compared to their retrospectively reported January 2020 plans. A large-scale public health emergency response places unsustainable burdens on an already underfunded and understaffed public health workforce. Pandemic-related burnout threatens the U.S. public health workforce’s future when many challenges related to the ongoing COVID-19 response remain unaddressed.

Health and Safety in Nail Salons: A Cross-Sectional Survey

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sadaf Sanaat ◽  
D Linn Holness ◽  
Victoria H Arrandale
Keyword(s):  
Occupational Health ◽  
Small Businesses ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Musculoskeletal Symptoms ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Safety Practices ◽  
Runny Nose ◽  
Few Data ◽  
Nail Salons

Abstract Objectives In recent years, nail salons have become more abundant than ever. The majority are small businesses, often employing immigrant women. Nail technicians have many exposures at work including chemical, biological, physical, and ergonomic hazards but few data exist on their symptoms or occupational health and safety practices, particularly in the Canadian context. The aim of this study was to learn about nail technicians, their work, and their health and safety practices. Methods Nail technicians were recruited from nail salons in Toronto, Ontario. Participants completed an anonymous survey with questions about demographics, work tasks, workplace health and safety practices, and symptoms (skin, respiratory, and musculoskeletal). Results A total of 155 nail technicians (95% female) participated in the survey. The majority of nail technicians performed manicures (99%) and pedicures (96%) and applied shellac polishes (86%). Only a third (34%) applied acrylic artificial nails. The reported use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was very high; 88% reported using a mask at work and 96% reporting using gloves. The most common symptoms reported by technicians were neck (44%) and back pain (38%). Skin and respiratory symptoms were less common with 6% of technicians reporting cough, 8% wheeze, and 5% a current rash. Technicians working over 30 h per week reported more neck pain (52 vs. 32%, P = 0.02). Technicians who reported using shellac polishes were more likely to report a runny nose (25 vs. 0%, P = 0.01). Conclusions Nail technicians in Toronto, Canada are experiencing work-related symptoms. Musculoskeletal symptoms were the most common symptoms reported. Much of the focus on nail salons and health has been on chemical exposures, but ergonomic hazards should not be overlooked. Efforts to increase knowledge and improve occupational health in nail salons should include information on multiple possible workplace hazards and how to reduce impacts of exposure.

scholarly journals Maternal adherence to micronutrient supplementation before and during pregnancy in Northwest China: a large-scale population-based cross-sectional survey

BMJ Open ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (8) ◽  
pp. e028843 ◽  
Author(s):  
Danmeng Liu ◽  
Yue Cheng ◽  
Shaonong Dang ◽  
Duolao Wang ◽  
Yaling Zhao ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Northwest China ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Shaanxi Province ◽  
Micronutrient Supplementation ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Start Time ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Scale Population

ObjectivesTo report the situation of maternal micronutrient supplementation before and during pregnancy in Northwest China and to examine the rates of and factors related to the adherence to micronutrient supplementation among pregnant women in this region, where dietary micronutrient intake is commonly insufficient.DesignA large-scale population-based cross-sectional survey.SettingTwenty counties and ten districts of Shaanxi Province.ParticipantsA sample of 30 027 women were selected using a stratified multistage random sampling method. A total of 28 678 women were chosen for the final analysis after excluding those who did not provide clear information about nutritional supplementation before and during pregnancy.Main outcome measuresMaternal adherence to micronutrient supplementation (high and low) were the outcomes. They were determined by the start time and duration of use according to Chinese guidelines (for folic acid (FA) supplements) and WHO recommendations (for iron, calcium and multiple-micronutrient (MMN) supplements).ResultsIn total, 83.9% of women took at least one kind of micronutrient supplement before or during pregnancy. FA (67.6%) and calcium (57.5%) were the primarily used micronutrient supplements; few participants used MMN (14.0%) or iron (5.4%). Adherence to supplementation of all micronutrients was low (7.4% for FA, 0.6% for iron, 11.7% for calcium and 2.7% for MMN). Higher educational levels, higher income levels, urban residence and better antenatal care (including pregnancy consultation and a higher frequency of antenatal visits) were associated with high adherence to micronutrient supplementation.ConclusionMaternal micronutrient supplementation before and during pregnancy in Northwest China was way below standards recommended by the Chinese guidelines or WHO. Targeted health education and future nutritional guidelines are suggested to improve this situation, especially in pregnant women with disadvantaged sociodemographic conditions.

scholarly journals Patients’ attitudes toward conventional and herbal treatments for depression and anxiety: A cross-sectional Israeli survey

2021 ◽  
pp. 002076402199238
Author(s):  
Or Burstein ◽  
Alon Shamir ◽  
Nurit Abramovitz ◽  
Ravid Doron
Keyword(s):  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Prescription Medications ◽  
Depression And Anxiety ◽  
Cultural Backgrounds ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Cultural Aspects ◽  
Final Sample ◽  
Choice Of Treatment

Background: As many patients view conventional antidepressants and anxiolytics negatively, it is not surprising that the willingness to apply these treatments is far from ideal, thus posing a critical barrier in promoting an effective and durable treatment. Aim: The present study aimed to explore patients’ attitudes toward conventional and herbal treatments for depression and anxiety, while considering cultural and demographic factors, to further elucidate the antecedes that putatively determine the treatment’s outcome. Methods: During June 2017, a cross-sectional survey was conducted using stratified sampling from a large-scale Israeli volunteer online panel. The final sample included 591 Jewish Israeli adults that reported they were suffering from depression or anxiety. Results: A heterogeneous range of attitudes toward treatment was found: for example, a large group of patients did not utilize prescription medications (39%), a professional consultation (12.9%), or any form of treatment (17.4%). Interestingly, these patients were significantly more likely to support naturally-derived treatments and were less concerned with scientific proof. Further, adverse effects were demonstrated as a prominent factor in the choice of treatment. A higher incidence of adverse effects was associated with an increased willingness to consider an alternative herbal treatment. Noteworthy attitudes were found in orthodox-Jewish individuals, who showed similar consultation rates, but utilized more psychological, rather than pharmacological treatments. Conclusions: It is proposed that patients’ perspectives and cultural backgrounds are needed to be taken into consideration during the clinical assessment and choice of treatment. The findings imply that a particular emphasis should be placed on patients that discard conventional pharmacological options and on distinct cultural aspects. Several recommendations for revising the current policy are advocated to promote more culturally-informed and patient-oriented care.

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