scholarly journals Evaluation of Liver Function and Haemorheological Parameters in Some Carpenters Exposed to Wood Dust in Port Harcourt

2021 ◽  
pp. 21-26
Author(s):  
Ojoye N. Briggs ◽  
Serekara G. Christian ◽  
Kemzi N. Elechi-Amadi ◽  
Helen A. Waribo ◽  
Prudence N. Nkpurukwe ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Liver Function ◽  
Haemoglobin Concentration ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Capital City ◽  
Dust Exposure ◽  
Wood Dust ◽  
Negative Consequences ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Port Harcourt ◽  
Ethical Approval

Aim: To evaluate liver function and haemorheological parameters in some carpenters exposed to wood dust in Port Harcourt. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out in some parts of Port Harcourt, the capital city of Rivers State in the southern part of Nigeria. The locations of the research included Sandfield mile 2 Diobu, Marine base, and Abuja by-pass Nkpolu-oroworukwo, Port Harcourt. Ethical approval and informed consent of the participants were obtained before commencement of the study. A total of one hundred and fifty (150) apparently healthy subjects aged between 20 t0 50 years were used for the study. Ninety (90) carpenters exposed to wood dust served as test subjects, while sixty (60) non- carpenters, non-wood workers not exposed to wood dust served as controls. Interviewer based sample questionnaire was administered to the subjects. Liver function parameters, Packed cell volume (PCV), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), haemoglobin concentration (Hb), and fibrinogen were analysed using standard laboratory techniques. Results: The mean age of the test subjects (36.5 ± 9.9 years) was not significantly different (P > .05) from that of the controls (32.1 ± 5.8 years). There were no significant differences (P > .05) in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), total bilirubin (TB), conjugated bilirubin (CB), PCV and Hb in the test subjects compared to the controls. ESR (19.60 ± 10.67mm/Hr) and fibrinogen (624 ± 60.88ng/mL) were significantly higher (P< .05) in the tests (carpenters) compared to ESR (8.41 ± 5.36mm/Hr) and fibrinogen (448.4 ± 67.91ng/mL) in the controls. Conclusion: Wood dust exposure did not alter the liver function, PCV, and Hb levels of carpenters. However, with increases in ESR and fibrinogen in the carpenters, there may be a risk of inflammation to wood dust exposure in the carpenters, with negative consequences to the vasculature.

scholarly journals Assessment of dust exposure and chronic respiratory symptoms among workers in medium scale woodwork factories in Ethiopia; a cross sectional study

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Tegegnework Yitayew Awoke ◽  
Abera Kumie Takele ◽  
Worku Tefera Mekonnen ◽  
Samson Wakuma Abaya ◽  
Yifokire Tefera Zele ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Work Experience ◽  
Respiratory Symptoms ◽  
Occupational Safety ◽  
Respiratory Health ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Dust Exposure ◽  
Wood Dust ◽  
Exposure Level ◽  
Factory Workers ◽  
Cross Sectional

Abstract Background Wood dust in a form of inhalable particulates can penetrate the lung tissues and affect respiratory health. Woodwork factory workers are at a greater risk of developing respiratory health problems because of exposure in their working environment, but existing data were few. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms, associated factors, and concentration of personal total wood dust level among medium-scale woodwork factory workers. Methods An institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among 506 woodwork factory workers. We selected study participants using a simple random sampling technique. We assessed chronic respiratory symptoms using the British Medical Research Council respiratory symptoms questionnaire with a few modifications. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the factors. Forty dust measurements were collected from 20 randomly selected workers using a closed-face cassette (CFC) personal sampler. We analyzed the dust samples gravimetrically using a standard microbalance scale. Results We recruited a random sample of 506 workers in the study with a response rate of 98%. The prevalence of chronic respiratory health symptoms among woodworkers was 69.8% with a prevalence of cough (54.6%), phlegm (52.2%), wheezing (44.6%), breathlessness (42.1%), and chest pain (42.9%). Past occupational dust exposure history (AOR = 2.09, 95% CI; 1.09–4.01), work experience > 5 years (AOR = 9.18, 95% CI; 5.27–16.00), using bio-fuel as energy for cooking (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI; 1.44–4.07), and having no occupational safety and health training (AOR = 3.38, 95% CI; 1.20–9.49) were factors that significantly associated with chronic respiratory symptoms among woodwork workers. The geometric mean (GM) of dust exposure level among woodworkers was 10.27 mg/m3, which exceeded the limit of 10 mg/m3 set by the ACGIH. Conclusions High prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms was reported from woodwork factory workers. Increased work- experience, using bio-fuel as an energy source for cooking, past occupational dust exposure history, and having no occupational safety and health training were identified risk factors. The measured average personal wood dust exposure level was above the recommended occupational threshold limit value. Therefore, workers’ wood dust exposure reduction and control methods and respiratory health awareness programs should be implemented.

scholarly journals Correlation Between Wood Dust Levels with Interleukin-8 in Blood Serum Wood Processing Workers at X Company, Tanjung Morawa

2020 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
pp. 33-38
Author(s):  
Jubilette Windy Hutabarat ◽  
Nuryunita Nainggolan ◽  
Amira Permatasari Tarigan ◽  
Putri Eyanoer
Keyword(s):  
Blood Serum ◽  
Serum Levels ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
The Body ◽  
Interleukin 8 ◽  
Dust Exposure ◽  
Wood Dust ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Wood Processing ◽  
Spearman Correlation Test

Backgrounds: Wood dust exposure can stimulate proinflammatory cytokines and increase IL-8 levels, which is a foreign body in the body will be phagocytosis by macrophages and excrete mediators such as chemokines, cytokines, and chemoattractants which can cause inflammation. Duration of exposure, number and size of wood dust in the respiratory tract of wood industry workers are associated with various pulmonary disorders such as, COPD, occupational asthma, allergic rhinitis, decreased pulmonary function and pulmonary fibrosis. The aim this study is determine correlation between wood dust levels with interleukin-8 in blood serum among wood processing workers at x company, Tanjung Morawa-North Sumatera. Methods: A cross-sectional study which involved 40 workers from 3 different locations namely cutting, sanding and drafting. Cumulative wood dust exposure was calculated by measuring the dust content at the work site using Dusttrak TSI. IL-8 serum levels were measured using the ELISA technique. The Spearman correlation test was used. Results: Out of 40 workers those who worked in the cutting section were 15 people (37,5%), sanding section were 15 people (37,5%) and drafting section were 10 people (25%). The average level of wood dust PM 2,5 was 5,23 mg/m3while PM10 was 8,24 mg/m3 and the mean level of IL-8 in serum was 163,3 ng/L. This study find that there is a strong correlation between wood dust and IL-8 serum (r = 0,683; p

scholarly journals Correlation of Depressive Illness with Academic Performance Among Medical Students at the University of Port Harcourt

2020 ◽  
pp. 18-21
Author(s):  
Emen Asuquo ◽  
Nkporbu A Kennedy ◽  
Okechukwu Chibuike ◽  
Okafor Nneka T ◽  
Onoh Ifeanyinwa
Keyword(s):  
Academic Performance ◽  
Medical Students ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Depressive Illness ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Port Harcourt ◽  
Ethical Approval ◽  
The University

Background: The rising prevalence and burden of Depression among all age groups including medical students have continued to constitute enormous concern worldwide. Depression has been associated with cognitive impairment and may impair academic performance. Aim: To determine the relationship between depression and academic performance among medical students at the University of Port Harcourt. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study gained ethical approval . Stratified random sampling method was used to select the subjects. A well-structured open ended self-administered socio-demographic questionnaire was administered to the students. The Zung Self Rated Depression Scale was used to assess the depression status of each respondent in conjunction with the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, Version Five (DSM V). The data were analysed using descriptive and analytical methods. Results: The prevalence of depression among the medical students was 5.3%. Fourteen students (4.6%) were mildly depressed while only two respondents had moderate depression. Academic performance was generally poor among the medical students with depressive illness compared to those without depression and was worse with increasing severity of depression(p=0.004). Conclusion: Depression does occur among medical students at the University of Port Harcourt and significantly affects academic performance.

scholarly journals Anaemia among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Kyenjojo and Kole Districts in Uganda: Prevalence and Associated Factors

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 119-129
Author(s):  
James Ssekitooleko
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Associated Factors ◽  
Haemoglobin Concentration ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
High Morbidity ◽  
Major Public Health Problem ◽  
Negative Consequences ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Cross Sectional

Anemia during pregnancy is a major public health problem, with a global prevalence of 41.8%. It is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Information on the prevalence of anemia and associated factors among pregnant women in the study area is limited. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and predictors of anemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics (ANC) in Kyenjojo and Kole Districts, Uganda. Cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected pregnant women. Quantitative data was collected using a structured questionnaire that captured demographic and obstetric characteristics. Haemoglobin concentration (Hb) was determined using HemoCue 201+. The study outcome was the prevalence of anaemia (Hb <11 g/dl). Chi-square, odds ratio, and logistic regression were used to test for associations. Of the total 760 pregnant women who participated in this study, 20.1% were anaemic. The prevalence varied from 13.4% in Kyenjojo to 26.9% in Kole District. Of 153 anaemic women, 121 (97%) were mildly anaemic, 27 (18%) moderately anemic, and 5(3%) severely anemic. Malaria infection [AOR: 0.46, 95% CI (0.26 – 0.83)], primigravida [AOR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.29-0.93], and residing in Kole [AOR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.32-0.76] were significant predictors of low haemoglobin concentration. This study highlighted the high prevalence of anaemia in our settings and the significant association between anaemia and malaria among pregnant women. Therefore, routine screening of pregnant women for anemia, malaria, and other risk factors during their first ANC visit is recommended to identify those at risk and prompt management provided to curb their negative consequences.

assessing knowledge, attitude and practices of miners and post-occupational miners towards pneumoconiosis in Wusakile Township, Kitwe, Zambia:cross sectional study (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephen Banda
Keyword(s):  
Negative Attitude ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Dust Exposure ◽  
P Value ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Negative Attitudes ◽  
Poor Knowledge ◽  
Mining Areas

BACKGROUND Occupational conditions are deadly health hazards especially where dust exposure is inevitable causing chronic disabilities, impaired respiratory function and ultimately leading to death if no intensive measures are put in place. Unhealthy practices and negative attitudes rise in the number of cases of pneumoconiosis due to poor health education and awareness strategies. Pneumoconiosis is not only a health problem but also a social and economic burden on the livelihood of people living in mining areas around the globe. OBJECTIVE to assess knowledge, attitude and practices of miners and post-occupational miners towards pneumoconiosis in Wusakile Township, Kitwe, Zambia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was employed to conduct a research in Wusakile Township and a questionnaire was customized in order to syphon data relevant to the study as well to be brief. The study was conducted among 73 participants who were randomly selected among miners and post-occupational miners and all satisfied the inclusion criteria. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to collect data. The data was entered and analysed using IBM SPSS software version 23. RESULTS Among 73 participants interviewed, 33.99% of participants had poor knowledge on the complications of pneumoconiosis. However, despite this poor knowledge, all participants had an idea about pneumoconiosis particularly silicosis. 13.70% of the respondents had bad practices towards pneumoconiosis while 86.30% had some good practices towards pneumoconiosis. Of the total participants, 19.18% of the participants had a negative attitude towards pneumoconiosis. Correlation between the level of education and practices of participants using Pearson Chi-Square, a p value of 0.021 (significant) was found ruling out the null hypothesis. CONCLUSIONS Information about pneumoconiosis and awareness programs towards pneumoconiosis are not widely disseminated among miners and post-occupational miners. There is still a significant number of participants who need to be educated more about pneumoconiosis and its complications so that attitude and practices are improved and also promote full community participation by involving competent health professionals to help in implementing preventive measures.

Prevalence of Gingival Pigmentation and its Association with Gingival Biotype and Skin Colour

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-25
Author(s):  
Arjun Hari Rijal ◽  
Bhageshwar Dhami ◽  
Nashib Pandey ◽  
Deepa Aryal
Keyword(s):  
Strong Association ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Skin Colour ◽  
Facial Skin ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Attached Gingiva ◽  
Ethical Approval ◽  
Gingival Epithelium ◽  
Interdental Papilla ◽  
Gingival Biotype

Introduction: The facial appearance depends on several oral and extraoral factors including colour of facial skin and pigmentation of gingival epithelium. The colour of the gingiva varies among individuals and is thought to be associated with cutaneous pigmentation which ranges from light to dark brown or black colour. Objective: To assess the prevalence of physiological gingival pigmentation, gingival biotype and their association with skin colur in Nepalese subjects visiting Kantipur Dental College and Hospital (KDCH). Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study which was carried out from February 2020 to June 2020 in all patients of age-group 16 to 80 years visiting the Department of Periodontics at KDCH after ethical approval. Patients were recruited by convenience sampling and examined thoroughly to find out gingival biotype and extent of gingival pigmentation intraorally as well as skin colour extraorally. Results: In this study, 210 patients were examined among which, 105 (50%) were males and 105 (50%) were females. Out of 210, 33 (15.7%) had pink tissue without pigmentation, 84 (40%) had pigmentation only in attached gingiva, 58 (27.6%) in attached gingiva and interdental papilla, 32 (15.2%) had diffuse pigmentation involving all parts of gingiva, 2 (1%) had in marginal gingiva only, and 1 (0.5%) in marginal gingiva and interdental papilla. Conclusion: A strong association was found between gingival pigmentation and facial skin colour in present study (P <0.001). Establishing the pattern of gingival pigmentation in Nepalese population will help to choose a specific depigmentation therapy that will harmonise with skin colour.  

scholarly journals Respiratory Tract Problems among Wood Furniture Manufacturing Factory Workers in the Northeast of Thailand

2017 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 125-129 ◽  
Author(s):  
I. Soongkhang ◽  
W. Laohasiriwong
Keyword(s):  
Respiratory Symptoms ◽  
Dust Exposure ◽  
Wood Dust ◽  
P Value ◽  
Factory Workers ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Furniture Manufacturing ◽  
Reduce Lung Function ◽  
Medium Level ◽  
Wood Furniture

Background Wood furniture manufacturing factory workers are at high risk of exposure to wood dust in wood working processes. Wood dust exposure could cause respiratory symptoms, such as reduce lung function, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. The Northeast region of Thailand has many wood furniture manufacturing factories. However, limited studies were carried out to explore the effect of wood dust exposure on workers.Objective This study aimed to assess the respiratory symptoms and determine factors associated with these symptoms among wood furniture manufacturing factory workers.Method This cross-sectional analytical research used a multistage random sampling to select 511 workers from three provinces in the Northeast of Thailand. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire interview. The content validity of questionnaire was tested by 3 experts and had a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.82. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regressions.Result The result indicated that 29.94% of these workers had respiratory symptoms, including coughing(18.79%), nasal secretion (15.66%), and stuffy nose (15.07%). Factors that were significantly associated with respiratory symptoms (p–value<0.05) were (a) not always wearing mask (adjusted OR=2.26;95% CI=1.37-3.72), (b) low to medium level of knowledge on dust prevention (adjusted OR=1.83;95% CI=1.23- 2.73) and (c) contacted softwood dust (adjusted OR=1.97;95% CI= 1.06-3.64).Conclusion About 30% of wood furniture manufacturing factory workers had respiratory symptoms with related to both personal preventive behaviors and their working environments. Therefore, the raising awareness for using personal protective equipment during work will help them to prevent from various respiratory track problems.

scholarly journals Verbal abuse facing Saudi nurses during internship program

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 75
Author(s):  
Maram Banakhar ◽  
Maha Alzahrani ◽  
Amani Omar Essa ◽  
Asal Fathi Al-dhahry ◽  
Rahma Farooq Batwa ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Workplace Violence ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Care Delivery ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Verbal Abuse ◽  
Negative Consequences ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Staff Members ◽  
Night Shifts

Background: Verbal abuse, in the context of workplace violence, is increasing, with nurses at high liability of being subjected to it since they are the first line of care delivery. This phenomenon is now receiving greater recognition due to its negative impact on nurses. This study aims to assess the prevalence of verbal abuse faced by Saudi nursing intern students in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted via a modified online questionnaire completed by Saudi intern nurses in Jeddah in March 2020. Descriptive statistical analysis was executed using statistical software SPSS Version 21.Results: From a total of 132 nurses, 94 participants met the study criteria. The findings show that 39.4% of Saudi intern nurses have experienced verbal abuse. The common perpetrators are patient/client (73%) and other staff members (73%), followed by patients’ relatives (45.9%). 48.6% of the participants did not report incidences of verbal abuse, commonly citing fear of the negative consequences (51.4%) and not knowing who to report it to (45.9%). A significant relation between working night shifts (6 pm to 7 am) and being verbally abused was found.Conclusions: Saudi nursing interns are vulnerable to verbal abuse. This study’s results highlight the possible risk to nursing interns, which may be diminished by modifying perceptions of verbal abuse and by clarifying the rules and regulations for both nursing interns and suspected perpetrators. We recommend future studies of verbal abuse are conducted in larger groups of nurses across different provinces in Saudi Arabia.

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