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Furuta DT, Tebar WR, Beretta VS, Tebar FG, de Carvalho AC, Leoci IC, Delfino LD, Ferrari G, Silva CCM, Christofaro DGD. Analysis of the association between high workload and musculoskeletal pain in public school teachers according to physical activity level. Work 2024; 78:111-117. [PMID: 38393875 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high workload has been associated with musculoskeletal pain in public school teachers. However, the hypothesis of the present study was that physical activity (PA) practice is able to attenuate this association. OBJECTIVE To analyze the associations between high workload with musculoskeletal pain according to PA levels in public school teachers. METHODS Teachers (n = 239) from 13 public schools were evaluated. Workload was assessed using a Likert scale in which teachers reported their perception of their work routine as: very low, low, regular, high, and very high. Musculoskeletal pain and PA were assessed using questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to investigate the association of high workload with PA levels and musculoskeletal pain in different body regions, compared to participants with normal workload, adjusted by sex, age, and socioeconomic status. RESULTS A high workload was associated with higher chances of reporting pain in the wrists and hands (OR = 3.55; 95% CI = 1.27-9.89), knee (OR = 3.09; 95CI% = 1.09-8.82), and feet and ankles (OR = 3.16; 95% CI = 1.03-9.76) in less active teachers. However, these associations were not observed in teachers considered more active. CONCLUSION PA practice is able to act as a good protector against musculoskeletal pain in teachers, even in individuals with a high workload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora T Furuta
- School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - William R Tebar
- Centre of Clinical and Epidemiological Research, University Hospital, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Victor S Beretta
- School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Movement Sciences, Physical Education Department, School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Gil Tebar
- School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Augusto C de Carvalho
- School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabella C Leoci
- School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leandro D Delfino
- School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gerson Ferrari
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Providencia, Chile
| | - Claudiele C M Silva
- School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diego G D Christofaro
- School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Movement Sciences, Physical Education Department, School of Technology and Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Rujiret U, Keerin M, Julaporn P, Petcharatana B, Wattana J, Chutima J. Validity of "OfficeCheck": A self-musculoskeletal assessment tool for screening work-related musculoskeletal disorders in office workers. Work 2023; 76:1501-1508. [PMID: 37393474 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early self-assessment for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) is crucial in preventing severe symptoms and long-term consequences. Accessible tools are necessary for proactive management. OBJECTIVE To validate the OfficeCheck web application as a screening tool to classify office workers as capable of self-management for specific symptoms of WMSDs or requiring professional consultation. METHODS This study was conducted to determine the criterion-related validity of OfficeCheck using physical therapy assessment as the reference standard. In total, 223 office workers who work with a computer more than two hours a day with or without symptoms of WMSDs participated in this study. All of them were classified by self-assessment on the OfficeCheck process flow (Kappa = 0.841) and physical therapy assessment, respectively. For statistical analysis, classification numbers were calculated for sensitivity, specificity, false positive rate (FPR), false negative rate (FNR), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). RESULTS A total of 223 workers with a mean age of 38.9±9.0 years and mean body mass index (BMI) of 24.3±5.2 kg/m2 were illustrated. The most common areas of complaint were neck/upper back and lower back/hip. The results indicated that OfficeCheck had high sensitivity (95.1%), low specificity (42.0%), low PPV (38.0%), and high NPV (95.8%). The FPR was 58.0% and the FNR was 4.9%. CONCLUSION OfficeCheck was found to have high sensitivity to classify office workers as capable of self-management for specific symptoms of WMSDs or requiring professional consultation. The use of OfficeCheck is thus recommended for self-detection and management to stop the consequences of WMSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mekhora Keerin
- Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Pooliam Julaporn
- Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, NakhonPathom, Thailand
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Tesfaye AH, Alemayehu M, Abere G, Mekonnen TH. Prevalence and Associated Factors of Computer Vision Syndrome Among Academic Staff in the University of Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2022; 16:11786302221111865. [PMID: 35846168 PMCID: PMC9280790 DOI: 10.1177/11786302221111865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is the leading occupational hazard of the 21st century, which causes the critical public health issues in the present era. In developing countries, including Ethiopia, data on the proportion and the causes of CVS are scarce among academic staff for policy conclusions. Accordingly, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence and factors associated with CVS among academic staff at the University of Gondar. METHODS Institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from March to April, 2021. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 525 study participants. Data were collected using a pre-tested self-administered structured questionnaire. The collected data were then entered into EpiData version 4.6 and analyzed using STATA version 14 software. The association between dependent and independent variables was computed with a binary logistic regression. RESULTS The prevalence of CVS was found to be 78.8% out of a total of 500 participants [95% CI (74.95, 82.30)], of which the majority (71.60%) of them were males. Using a computer for more than 9 years [AOR = 1.65, 95% CI (1.01, 2.71)], using visual display terminals [AOR = 2.63, 95% CI (1.60, 4.32)], and working in improper illumination levels (300 and >500 lux) [AOR = 2.47, 95% CI (1.47, 4.33)] increased the risk of CVS, whereas, Using eye droplets [AOR = 0.30, 95% CI (0.15, 0.58)] and taking rest breaks [AOR = 0.55, 95% CI (0.34-0.92)] were protective factors. CONCLUSION This study disclosed that CVS was common among academicians. In the current study, the manifestation of CVS was affected by years of computer use, visual display terminals use, workplace illumination level, rest breaks, and eye droplets. Taking rest breaks in between the work, reducing exposure to display screens, use of eye drops, and optimizing workplace illumination levels are recommended to reduce the problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amensisa Hailu Tesfaye
- Amensisa Hailu Tesfaye, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, P.O.Box: 196, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
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Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome and Associated Factors among Instructors in Ethiopian Universities: A Web-Based Cross-Sectional Study. ScientificWorldJournal 2021; 2021:3384332. [PMID: 34650344 PMCID: PMC8510801 DOI: 10.1155/2021/3384332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In this globalized and high-tech era, the computer has become an integral part of daily life. A constant use of computer for 3 hours and more per day can cause computer vision syndrome (CVS), which is one of the leading occupational hazards of the 21st century. The visual difficulties are the most common health problems associated with excessive computer use. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of CVS among instructors working in Ethiopian universities. Methods A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 university instructors in Ethiopia from February 02 to March 24, 2021. A structured and self-administered questionnaire prepared by Google Forms was shared among instructors through their e-mail addresses, Facebook, and Telegram accounts. Data cleanup and cross-checking were done before analysis using SPSS version 23. A multivariable logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with CVS using p value <0.05 and 95% confidence interval. Results Of the total 416 participants, about 293 (70.4%) were reported to have CVS (95% CI: 65.9–74.5%), of which 54.6% were aged 24–33 years. Blurred vision, pain in and around the eye, and eye redness were the main symptoms reported. Working in third-established universities (AOR = 8.44, 95% CI: 5.47–21.45), being female (AOR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.28–5.64), being 44 years old and above (AOR = 2.73, 95% CI: 1.31–5.70), frequently working on the computer (AOR = 5.51, 95% CI: 2.05–14.81), and sitting in bent back position (AOR = 8.10, 95% CI: 2.42–23.45) were the factors associated with computer vision syndrome. Conclusions In this study, nearly seven-tenths of instructors in Ethiopian universities reported having symptoms of computer vision syndrome. Working in third-generation universities, being female, age, frequently working on the computer, and sitting in bent back position were statistically significant predictors in computer vision syndrome. Therefore, optimizing exposure time, addressing ergonomic hazards associated with computer usage through on-the-job and off-the-job training, and making the safety guidelines accessible for all university instructors would be critical to address the problem.
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Maakip I, Keegel T, Oakman J. Prevalence and predictors for musculoskeletal discomfort in Malaysian office workers: Investigating explanatory factors for a developing country. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2016; 53 Pt A:252-257. [PMID: 26499952 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2015.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major occupational health issue for workers in developed and developing countries, including Malaysia. Most research related to MSDs has been undertaken in developed countries; given the different regulatory and cultural practices it is plausible that contributions of hazard and risk factors may be different. A population of Malaysian public service office workers were surveyed (N = 417, 65.5% response rate) to determine prevalence and associated predictors of MSD discomfort. The 6-month period prevalence of MSD discomfort was 92.8% (95%CI = 90.2-95.2%). Akaike's Information Criterion (AIC) analyses was used to compare a range of models and determine a model of best fit. Contributions associated with MSD discomfort in the final model consisted of physical demands (61%), workload (14%), gender (13%), work-home balance (9%) and psychosocial factors (3%). Factors associated with MSD discomfort were similar in developed and developing countries but the relative contribution of factors was different, providing insight into future development of risk management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismail Maakip
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Victoria 3086, Australia; Faculty of Psychology & Education, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
| | - Tessa Keegel
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Victoria 3086, Australia; Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria 3800, Australia.
| | - Jodi Oakman
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Victoria 3086, Australia.
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Alshagga MA, Nimer AR, Yan LP, Ibrahim IAA, Al-Ghamdi SS, Radman Al-Dubai SA. Prevalence and factors associated with neck, shoulder and low back pains among medical students in a Malaysian Medical College. BMC Res Notes 2013; 6:244. [PMID: 23815853 PMCID: PMC3733931 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-6-244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The main purpose of the study was to assess the prevalence, body distributions and factors associated with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) among medical students in a private Malaysian medical college. Method This cross-sectional study was conducted among 232 medical students in a private medical college using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was a modified Standardized Nordic Questionnaire focused on neck, shoulder and low back pain in the past week and the past year. Results Two hundred and thirty two medical students responded to the questionnaire out of 642. Mean age was 20.7 ± 2.1 years. The majority were female (62.9%), Malay (80.6%) and in the preclinical years (72%). One hundred and six (45.7%) of all students had at least one site of MSP in the past week and 151 (65.1%) had at least one site of MSP in the past year. MSP in the past week was associated significantly with the academic year, (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.15-3.67, P = 0.015), history of trauma (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.2-5.3, P = 0.011), family history of MSP (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1-3.9, P = 0.023) and Body Mass Index (BMI) (P = 0.028). MSP in the past year was significantly associated with computer use (P = 0.027), daily hours of computer use (median ± IQR (5.0 ±3.0), history of trauma (OR 7.5, 95% CI 2.24-2.56, P < 0.01) and family history of MSP (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.31-4.90, P = 0.006). On multivariate analysis, factors associated with MSP during the past week were a family history of MSP (p = 0.029) and BMI (p = 0.03). Factors associated with MSP during the past year were being in clinical years (p = 0.002, computer use (p = 0.038), and a history of trauma (p = 0.030). Conclusion MSP among medical students was relatively high, thus, further clinical assessment is needed in depth study of ergonomics. The study results indicate that medical school authorities should take measures to prevent MSP due to factors related to medical school. Students should make aware of importance of weight reduction to reduce MSP.
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Lin YC, Chen YC, Hsieh HI, Chen PC. Risk for work-related fatigue among the employees on semiconductor manufacturing lines. Asia Pac J Public Health 2013; 27:NP1805-18. [PMID: 23761590 DOI: 10.1177/1010539513490788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To examine the potential risk factors for work-related fatigue (WRF) among workers in modern industries, the authors analyzed the records of need-for-recovery questionnaires and health checkup results for 1545 employees. Compared with regular daytime workers, and after adjusting for confounders, the workers adapting to day-and-night rotating shift work (RSW) had a 4.0-fold (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.7-5.9) increased risk for WRF, higher than the 2.2-fold risk (95% CI = 1.5-3.3) for persistent shift workers. Based on highest education level, the male employees with university degrees had the highest adjusted odds ratio (a-OR) 2.8 (95% CI = 1.0-7.8) for complaining of WRF versus compulsory education group. For female workers, currently married/cohabiting status was inversely associated with WRF (a-OR = 0.5; 95% CI = 0.2-0.9), and child-rearing responsibility moderately increased WRF risk (a-OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.0-3.7). Day-and-night RSW and the adaptation, educational levels of males, and domestic factors for females contributed to WRF among semiconductor manufacturing employees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Cheng Lin
- En Chu Kong Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei, Taiwan National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan Tao-Yuan General Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Cheng Chen
- National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan Sijhih Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-I Hsieh
- Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei, Taiwan Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Abstract
A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder symptoms and its risk factors among women rebar workers. A simple random sampling method was used and data were collected by face-to-face interview and ergonomic assessment from February to March 2011. A total of 272 women rebar workers with at least 6 months’ job experience participated in this study. The findings revealed that 57.7% of workers reported musculoskeletal disorder symptoms with low back and shoulders as the most common body parts affected (46.0%). Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated 2 variables that are significantly associated with musculoskeletal disorders: prolonged working hours (adjusted odds ratio = 7.63; 95% confidence interval = 2.06-28.31) and awkward posture (adjusted odds ratio = 43.79; 95% confidence interval = 17.09-112.20). The high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among women rebar workers suggests that an appropriate ergonomic workstation design and ergonomic training for women rebar workers are necessary.
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Speklé EM, Hoozemans MJM, van der Beek AJ, Blatter BM, van Dieën JH. The predictive validity of the RSI QuickScan questionnaire with respect to arm, shoulder and neck symptoms in computer workers. ERGONOMICS 2012; 55:1559-1570. [PMID: 23004686 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2012.718365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The aim of this study was to determine whether results from the RSI QuickScan questionnaire on risk factors for arm, shoulder and neck symptoms can predict future arm, neck and shoulder symptoms in a population of computer workers. For this prospective cohort study, with a follow-up of 24 months, 3383 workers who regularly worked with a computer were approached. Generalised estimating equations (GEE) with 6, 12, 18 and 24 months time lags were used to determine whether high exposure was related to symptoms at follow-up. The results showed that high scores on 9 out of 13 scales, including previous symptoms, were significantly related to arm, shoulder and neck symptoms at follow-up. These results provide support for the predictive validity of the RSI QuickScan questionnaire. PRACTITIONER SUMMARY The results showed that high scores on 9 out of 13 scales, including previous symptoms, were significantly related to arm, shoulder and neck symptoms at follow-up. The RSI QuickScan questionnaire may be recommended as a tool in the identification of computer workers who should be targeted with interventions aimed at prevention of future symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin M Speklé
- Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, Research Institute MOVE, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 9, Amsterdam, 1081 BT, The Netherlands.
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Das B, Gangopadhyay S. Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physiological Stress Among Adult, Male Potato Cultivators of West Bengal, India. Asia Pac J Public Health 2012; 27:NP1669-82. [DOI: 10.1177/1010539511421808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A total of 70 male potato cultivators were selected randomly from the villages of West Bengal, India, to evaluate musculoskeletal disorder (MSD), thermal stress, and physiological stress and were compared with 70 controls from the urban sector of West Bengal. Modified Nordic questionnaire studies and a posture analysis were performed in for the male potato cultivators by the Rapid Entire Body Assessment method. Most of the participants suffered discomfort at different parts of the body, especially in the lower back, knee, ankle, and feet regions. Potato cultivators suffered maximum discomfort during spading, planting seeds, weeding, picking crops, and sprinkling water. Therefore, it can be concluded that prolonged work activity, high repetitiveness, and remaining constantly in an awkward posture for a prolonged period of time may lead to MSDs. This study also revealed that a significant physiological load is exerted on the potato cultivators, as shown by increased heart rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banibrata Das
- Department of Physiology, South Calcutta Girls’ College, University of Calcutta, India
| | - Somnath Gangopadhyay
- Department of Physiology, University College Science & Technology, University of Calcutta, India
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Kanchanomai S, Janwantanakul P, Pensri P, Jiamjarasrangsi W. A Prospective Study of Incidence and Risk Factors for the Onset and Persistence of Low Back Pain in Thai University Students. Asia Pac J Public Health 2011; 27:NP106-15. [DOI: 10.1177/1010539511427579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the 12-month incidence and risk factors for the onset and persistence of low back pain (LBP) in undergraduate students. A 1-year prospective study was carried out among 684 healthy students in a large public university in Thailand. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and a physical examination. Follow-up data were collected every 3 months. A total of 524 (77%) students were followed for 1 year. A total of 31% reported a new onset of LBP, of whom 31% reported persistent LBP. Having no low back support during computer work was a significant predictor for the onset and persistence of LBP. The onset of LBP was also associated with quadriceps muscle tightness. LBP is common among undergraduate students, and many of them may have persistent symptoms. Physical risk factor plays a significant role for the onset and persistence of LBP among the study population.
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Mahmud N, Kenny DT, Md Zein R, Hassan SN. The Effects of Office Ergonomic Training on Musculoskeletal Complaints, Sickness Absence, and Psychological Well-Being. Asia Pac J Public Health 2011; 27:NP1652-68. [DOI: 10.1177/1010539511419199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study explored whether musculoskeletal complaints can be reduced by the provision of ergonomics education. A cluster randomized controlled trial study was conducted in which 3 units were randomized to intervention and received training and 3 units were given a leaflet. The effect of intervention on knowledge, workstation practices, musculoskeletal complaints, sickness absence, and psychological well-being were assessed at 6 and 12 months. Although there was no increment of knowledge among workers, significant improvements in workstation practices in the use of monitor, keyboard, and chair were observed. There were significant reductions in neck and upper and lower back complaints among workers but these did not translate into fewer days lost from work. Workers’ stress was found to be significantly reduced across the studies. In conclusion, office ergonomics training can be beneficial in reducing musculoskeletal risks and stress among workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norashikin Mahmud
- Program of Industrial Psychology and Organizational Psychology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia
| | | | - Raemy Md Zein
- National Institutes of Occupational Safety and Health, Bangi, Malaysia
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Feuerstein M. Prevention and management of work disability in Asia Pacific: challenges and opportunities. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2011; 21 Suppl 1:S5-S14. [PMID: 21365304 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-011-9295-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The economic growth in Asia Pacific brings with it challenges and opportunities in many areas of work and health. As economies grow and work demands increase so do accidents, injures and work disability. METHODS Burns, chemical exposures, and construction related injuries are often catastrophic in severity and lead to work disability, major acute medical and subsequent rehabilitation efforts. In addition to these acute injuries, musculoskeletal and chronic illnesses are also sources of work disability. RESULTS Industrial injuries and health problems are often explained and managed based on the classic unidimensional hazard prevention model. In contrast, work disability is a multi-factorial problem and requires more complex conceptualizations than an exposure outcome model. The economic impact of disability, limitations of the widely used impairment based disability determination method, lack of adherence to wide scale implementation of evidence based clinical approaches, the need for meaningful stakeholder involvement and the potential of a multivariable view of work disability, in all aspects of work disability prevention, management and policy are discussed in the context of Asia Pacific economic growth. CONCLUSIONS With ideal alignment of diverse goals and incentives along with consideration of past efforts in disability prevention and management, new models, processes and policies can be created as commerce in these countries continues to grow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Feuerstein
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology and Preventive Medicine and Biometrics, Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
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