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Stjernbrandt A, Johnsen M, Liljelind I, Aminoff A, Wahlström J, Höper AC, Pettersson H, Nilsson T. Neurosensory and vascular symptoms and clinical findings in the hands of Arctic open-pit miners in Sweden and Norway - a descriptive study. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2254916. [PMID: 37669310 PMCID: PMC10481761 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2254916] [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] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study aimed to describe exposure to cold climate and hand-arm vibration (HAV) as well as neurosensory and vascular symptoms and clinical findings among open-pit Arctic miners. It was based on data from questionnaires and physical examinations, including 177 men and 75 women from two open-pit mines in Sweden and Norway (response rate 54%). Working outdoors or in an unheated building or machine for at least two hours per day was reported by 44% and HAV exposure of the same duration by 10%. Neurosensory symptoms (e.g. reduced perception of touch) in the hands were reported by 47% and Raynaud's phenomenon by 14%. In brief conclusion, the study showed that Arctic miners were commonly exposed to both cold temperatures and HAV. They also reported a broad range of neurosensory and vascular symptoms in their hands and had abnormal clinical findings related to the symptoms. The results emphasise the need for additional preventive measures in this occupational setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albin Stjernbrandt
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Magnar Johnsen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ingrid Liljelind
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna Aminoff
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jens Wahlström
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anje Christina Höper
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Hans Pettersson
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tohr Nilsson
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Scholz MF, Brammer AJ, Marburg S. Exposure-response relation for vibration-induced white finger: inferences from a published meta-analysis of population groups. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2023; 96:757-770. [PMID: 36976319 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-023-01965-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE It is questioned whether the exposure-response relation for the onset of vibration-induced white finger (VWF) in ISO 5349-1:2001 needs to be revised based on the epidemiologic studies identified by Nilsson et al. (PLoS One https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180795 , 2017), and whether the relation they derive improves the prediction of VWF in vibration-exposed populations. METHODS A pooled analysis has been performed using epidemiologic studies that complied with selection rules and reported a VWF prevalence of 10% or more, and exposure constructed according to the provisions of ISO 5349-1:2001. The lifetime exposures at 10% prevalence were calculated for various data sets using linear interpolation. They were then compared to both the model from the standard and that developed by Nilsson et al. RESULTS: Regression analyses reveal excluding extrapolation to adjust group prevalences to 10% produce models with 95-percentile confidence intervals that include the ISO exposure-response relation but not that in Nilsson et al. (2017). Different curve fits are obtained for studies involving daily exposure to single or multiple power tools and machines. Studies with similar exposure magnitudes and lifetime exposure durations but markedly different prevalences are observed to cluster. CONCLUSIONS A range of exposures and A(8)-values is predicted within which the onset of VWF is most likely to occur. The exposure-response relation in ISO 5349-1:2001, but not that proposed by Nilsson et al., falls within this range and provides a conservative estimate for the development of VWF. In addition, the analyses suggest that the method for evaluating vibration exposure contained in ISO 5349-1:2001 needs revision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena F Scholz
- School of Engineering and Design, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 15, 85748, Garching, Bavaria, Germany.
| | - Anthony J Brammer
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
| | - Steffen Marburg
- School of Engineering and Design, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 15, 85748, Garching, Bavaria, Germany
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Dogbla L, Gouvenelle C, Thorin F, Lesage FX, Zak M, Ugbolue UC, Charbotel B, Baker JS, Pereira B, Dutheil F. Occupational Risk Factors by Sectors: An Observational Study of 20,000 Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3632. [PMID: 36834326 PMCID: PMC9967294 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to assess the prevalence of exposure by sector and the sectors of activity most exposed to each exposure, using routine occupational health data, and to quantify the risk of being exposed. METHOD Occupational risk factors were assessed by workers followed by the Occupational Health Service of Cher, using self-reported questionnaires. The sectors of activity were grouped into seven sectors, and the risks were grouped into six occupational exposure groups. Comparisons were made using the Chi-squared test and Cramer's V, and the odds ratios were calculated by using logistic regression. RESULTS We included 19,891 workers. The construction sector had the highest prevalence (p < 0.05 vs. all other sectors) of exposure to physical (76%) and biomechanical factors (82%), as well as chemical risks (75%). Human health and social work was the sector with the highest prevalence of exposure to biological factors (69%), psychosocial factors (90%), and atypical working hours (61%). With workers from administrative and support sectors as the reference, construction workers had more chance of declaring exposure to physical factors (OR = 3.28, 95%CI = 2.89 to 3.72), biomechanical factors (1.82, 1.58 to 2.09), and chemical agents (3.83, 3.38 to 4.33). Workers from the human health and social sectors had more chance of being exposed to biological agents (13.4, 11.9 to 15.2), atypical working hours (1.93, 1.75 to 2.14), and psychosocial factors (2.74, 2.38 to 3.16). CONCLUSION Psychosocial risk factors were commonly reported in all sectors. Workers in the construction, human health, and social sectors seem to report more exposures than those in other sectors. The analysis of occupational exposures is a necessary basis to build an efficient preventive strategy for occupational health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luther Dogbla
- Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, CNRS UMR 6024, LaPSCo, University Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Occupational Medicine, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Occupational Health Service of Cher (APST18), 18000 Bourges, France
| | - Cédric Gouvenelle
- Occupational Health Service of Cher (APST18), 18000 Bourges, France
- CNRS, Acté, University Clermont Auvergne, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Florence Thorin
- Occupational Health Service of Cher (APST18), 18000 Bourges, France
| | | | - Marek Zak
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Physiotherapy, The Jan Kochanowski University, 25-369 Kielce, Poland
| | - Ukadike Chris Ugbolue
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Institute for Clinical Exercise & Health Science, University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK
| | - Barbara Charbotel
- UMRESTTE, Domaine Rockefeller, University Lyon 1, 69373 Lyon, France
| | - Julien S. Baker
- Centre for Health and Exercise Science Research, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Bruno Pereira
- Clinical Research and Innovation Direction, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Frédéric Dutheil
- Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, CNRS UMR 6024, LaPSCo, University Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Occupational Medicine, WittyFit, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Alsaidi Y, Thompson A, Spilchuk V, House RA, Adisesh A. Cryoglobulins and cold agglutinins for hand arm vibration syndrome. Occup Med (Lond) 2022; 72:609-613. [PMID: 36179074 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqac083] [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: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a condition caused by hand transmitted vibration from the use of hand-held vibrating tools or workpieces. The disease affects the vascular, neurological and musculoskeletal systems. The vascular component of HAVS is a form of secondary Raynaud's phenomenon. Other causes of disease must be excluded before attributing the cause to hand transmitted vibration. AIMS To evaluate the prevalence, and utility of testing for, cryoglobulins and cold agglutinins in patients with HAVS symptoms. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of 1183 patients referred for HAVS clinical assessment at St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada, between 2014 and 2020. The standard operating procedure at the clinic includes a detailed clinical and exposure history, physical examination, objective investigations and blood tests. Data were retrieved from patient chart review and laboratory investigation results for all cases with cryoglobulin and cold agglutinin testing. RESULTS A total of 1183 patients had a serum cryoglobulin measurement. Eleven patients (1%) were positive. Seven positive results were 'low titre' (1% positive) and the other four results were 2%, 6%, 9% and 18%. The patient with a 9% positive cryoglobulin titre had previously diagnosed Sjögren's syndrome. There were no positive cold agglutinin tests in the 795 patients tested. CONCLUSIONS Routine testing for cryoglobulins and cold agglutinins in patients with HAVS symptoms is not recommended because test positivity rates are negligible. Testing may be considered if the clinical history or routine blood investigations suggest evidence of underlying cryoglobulinaemia or cold agglutinin disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Alsaidi
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - A Thompson
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - V Spilchuk
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - R A House
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - A Adisesh
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
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Nieto-Álvarez R, de la Hoz-Torres ML, Aguilar AJ, Martínez-Aires MD, Ruiz DP. Proposal of Combined Noise and Hand-Arm Vibration Index for Occupational Exposure: Application to a Study Case in the Olive Sector. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14345. [PMID: 36361218 PMCID: PMC9654875 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In many production and industrial sectors, workers are exposed to noise and hand-arm vibrations (HAV). European directives have established the maximum limit values or exposure action values for noise and vibration independently. However, in many cases, workers who endure hand-arm vibration also receive high noise levels. This research suggests a procedure to aid the establishment of precautionary measures for workers with simultaneous exposure to both physical agents. This procedure defines a combined index based on the energy doses for both noise and HAV. From this combined index, the suggested methodology allows a recommended exposure time for workers with simultaneous noise and HAV exposure to be calculated. This methodology can be adapted to tackle the relative importance assigned to both agents according to the safety manager and new knowledge on combined health effects. To test this method, a measurement campaign under real working conditions was conducted with workers from the olive fruit-harvesting sector, where a variety of hand-held machinery is used. The results of the study case show that the suggested procedure can obtain reliable exposure time recommendations for simultaneous noise and HAV exposures and is therefore a useful tool for establishing prevention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Nieto-Álvarez
- Department of Architectural Graphic Expression and Engineering, University of Granada, Av. Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - María L. de la Hoz-Torres
- Department of Building Construction, University of Granada, Av. Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Antonio J. Aguilar
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Granada, Av. Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | | | - Diego P. Ruiz
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Granada, Av. Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
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Stjernbrandt A, Pettersson H, Lundström R, Liljelind I, Nilsson T, Wahlström J. Incidence, remission, and persistence of Raynaud's phenomenon in the general population of northern Sweden: a prospective study. BMC Rheumatol 2022; 6:41. [PMID: 35858907 PMCID: PMC9301854 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-022-00272-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Raynaud's phenomenon is common condition, but little is known about the natural course. The primary aim of this study was to determine the incidence, remission, and persistence proportions of Raynaud's phenomenon in the general population of northern Sweden. Secondary aims were to determine how individual and exposure factors affect the course of Raynaud's phenomenon, and to assess gender differences. METHODS A prospective, survey-based, closed-cohort study was conducted on a sample of men and women between 18-70 years of age, living in northern Sweden. Data on Raynaud's phenomenon characteristics and general health status were collected during the winters of 2015 (baseline) and 2021 (follow-up). Rates of incidence, remission, and persistence were calculated. Binary logistic regression was used to determine the association between baseline variables and the course of Raynaud's phenomenon. RESULTS The study population consisted of 2703 women (53.9%) and 2314 men. There were 390 women (14.5%) and 290 men (12.7%) reporting Raynaud's phenomenon in the follow-up survey. The annual incidence proportion was 0.7% among women and 0.9% among men (gender difference p = 0.04). The annual remission proportion was 4.4% and 5.5%, respectively (p = 0.05). Having sustained a cold injury affecting the hands since baseline was significantly associated with incident Raynaud's phenomenon (OR 3.92; 95% CI 2.60-5.90), after adjusting for age and gender. CONCLUSIONS In the general population of northern Sweden, Raynaud's phenomenon is a common but variable condition, where symptoms may remit over time. Men had a higher incidence proportion than women. The results support a possible causal pathway where cold injury can precede the onset of Raynaud's phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albin Stjernbrandt
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Hans Pettersson
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ronnie Lundström
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Liljelind
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tohr Nilsson
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jens Wahlström
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
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Jain A, Tony B, Alphin M. Evaluation of the bio-dynamic response of the hand-arm system and hand-tool designs - A brief review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2022; 29:586-595. [PMID: 35593190 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2022.2060587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Hand-operated tools transmit a high magnitude of vibration exposure to the hand-arm system that causes occupational diseases. The health effects caused in various countries for the past years due to usage of hand tools are necessary to identify the occupational disorders. Researchers have conducted various studies on biological effects, hand-transmitted vibration exposure and biodynamic responses throughout the years. This article goes over each of these studies in detail, as well as identifying areas where more research is needed. The majority of studies deal with the following topics: general guidelines for hand-transmitted vibrations; assessment techniques of vibration exposure; hand-tool evaluation methods; influence of hand-tool design to overcome the biomechanical effects; and finite element modelling for quantifying vibration exposure. In response to this, understanding the biodynamic behaviour of the hand-arm system is useful for better ergonomic intervention in hand tools to reduce fatigue and increase comfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.R. Jain
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Birmingham City University-UAE Campus
| | - B Tony
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Birmingham City University-UAE Campus
| | - M.S Alphin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Chennai, India
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Huang LJ, Zha JJ, Cao NW, Zhou HY, Chu XJ, Wang H, Li XB, Li BZ. Temperature might increase the hospital admission risk for rheumatoid arthritis patients in Anqing, China: a time-series study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2022; 66:201-211. [PMID: 34718869 PMCID: PMC8557265 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-021-02207-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Temperature has been studied in relation to many health outcomes. However, few studies have explored its effect on the risk of hospital admission for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) was used to analyze associations between mean temperature, diurnal temperature range (DTR), temperature change between neighboring days (TCN), and daily admissions for RA from 2015 to 2019 in Anqing, China. Subgroup analyses based on age, gender, rheumatoid factors, and admission route were performed. In total, 1456 patients with RA were hospitalized. Regarding the cumulative-lag effects of extreme cold temperature (5th percentile = 3℃), the risks of admissions for RA were increased and highest at lag 0-11 (RR = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.23-5.86). Exposing to low (5th percentile = 1.9℃) and high (95th percentile = 14.2℃) DTRs both had increased risks of RA admission, with highest RRs of 1.40 (95% CI: 1.03-1.91) and 1.24 (95% CI: 1.0-1.53) at lag 0 day, respectively. As for TCN, the marginal risk of admission in RA patients was found when exposed to high TCN (95th percentile = 2.9℃) with the largest single-day effect at lag 10 (RR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.01-1.23). In subgroup analyses, females were more susceptible to extreme cold temperature, low and high DTRs, and high TCN. In regard to extreme cold temperature, significant risk of hospital admission in females only appeared at lag 2 (RR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.02-2.15) and lag 0-2 (RR = 2.35, 95% CI: 1.11-4.95). It is clear that RA patients exposed to changing temperature may increase risks of admission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Juan Huang
- Medical Department, The Affiliated Anqing Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anqing, Anhui, China
| | - Jun-Jing Zha
- Medical Department, The Affiliated Anqing Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anqing, Anhui, China
| | - Nv-Wei Cao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Hao-Yue Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Xiu-Jie Chu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Xian-Bao Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Bao-Zhu Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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Landsbergis P, Johanning E, Stillo M, Jain R, Davis M. Upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders and work exposures among railroad maintenance-of-way workers. Am J Ind Med 2021; 64:744-757. [PMID: 34128253 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our objective was to examine occupational risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders of the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands among railroad maintenance-of-way (MOW) workers. Little systematic research on musculoskeletal disorders has been conducted in this occupational group. METHODS In total, 3995 active members of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) completed a standardized survey focusing on disorders caused by hand-transmitted vibration. We computed adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) using Poisson regression for shoulder, elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, and vibration white finger musculoskeletal symptoms by work exposures, adjusted for age, region, race/ethnicity, smoking, potential second job, and spare time vehicle vibration exposure, and other work exposures. RESULTS Among active male BMWED members, we found associations between >5.2 years (vs. 0.0-0.7 years) duration of full-time equivalent power tool use and shoulder pain (aPR = 2.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43-2.85), elbow pain (aPR = 2.88; 95% CI, 1.86-4.46), vibration white finger symptoms (aPR = 2.49; 95% CI, 1.06-5.85), hand/wrist pain (aPR = 2.40; 95% CI, 1.74-3.32), finger numbness or tingling (aPR = 1.86; 95% CI, 1.38-2.50) and self-reported carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis (aPR = 2.16; 95% CI, 1.24-3.77). Associations were not consistent across outcomes for the duration of non-powered hand tool use and "repeated lifting, pushing, pulling, or bending." Positive gradients were observed for most outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Hand-arm vibration and some other biomechanical exposures were associated with shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, and finger symptoms. Prevention programs should address occupational risk factors for upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders among MOW workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Landsbergis
- Downstate School of Public Health State University of New York (SUNY) Brooklyn New York USA
| | - Eckardt Johanning
- Department of Medicine, Center for Family and Community Medicine Columbia University New York New York USA
| | - Marco Stillo
- Downstate School of Public Health State University of New York (SUNY) Brooklyn New York USA
| | - Rahul Jain
- Downstate School of Public Health State University of New York (SUNY) Brooklyn New York USA
| | - Michelle Davis
- Downstate School of Public Health State University of New York (SUNY) Brooklyn New York USA
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Tekavec E, Löfqvist L, Larsson A, Fisk K, Riddar J, Nilsson T, Nordander C. Adverse health manifestations in the hands of vibration exposed carpenters - a cross sectional study. J Occup Med Toxicol 2021; 16:16. [PMID: 33926509 PMCID: PMC8082821 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-021-00305-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite EU regulatory standards, many workers suffer injury as a result of working with hand-held vibrating tools. Our aim of this study was to confirm whether carpenters, a highly exposed group, suffer more injuries to their hands than painters, a group assumed to be less exposed to vibration. Methods 193 carpenters (participation rate 100%) and 72 painters (participation rate 67%), all men, answered a questionnaire and underwent a clinical examination to identify manifestations of neural and vascular origin in the hands. Neurosensory affection was defined as having at least one symptom in the fingers/hands (impaired perception of touch, warmth, or cold, impaired dexterity, increased sensation of cold, numbness or tingling, or pain in the fingers/hands when cold) and at least one clinical finding (impaired perception of touch, warmth, cold, vibration, or two-point discrimination). Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results Neurosensory affection was fulfilled for 31% of the carpenters and 17% of the painters, age-adjusted OR 3.3 (CI 1.6–7.0). Among carpenters with neurosensory affection 18% reported interference with daily life activities, the most common symptoms being increased sensation of cold, numbness and pain in the fingers/hands when cold, the most common clinical findings were impaired perception of touch and vibration. Neurosensory affection was found in 12% of young carpenters (≤ 30 years old). No difference was found in the prevalence of white fingers between carpenters and painters. Conclusions Carpenters showed more symptoms and clinical findings of neurosensory affection than painters, probably due to vibration exposure. Also young carpenters showed signs of neurosensory affection, which indicates that under current conditions workers at these companies are not protected against injury. This underlines the importance of reducing exposure to vibration and conducting regular medical check-ups to detect early signs of neural and vascular manifestations indicating hand-arm vibration injuries. Special attention should be given to symptoms of increased sensation of cold, pain in the fingers when cold, and numbness, as these were the most common initiating ones, and should be addressed as early as possible in the preventive sentinel process. It is also important to test clinically for small- and large-fibre neuropathy, as the individual may be unaware of any pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Tekavec
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Lotta Löfqvist
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anna Larsson
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Karin Fisk
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jakob Riddar
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tohr Nilsson
- Division of Sustainable Health and Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Catarina Nordander
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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11
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Prete M, Favoino E, Giacomelli R, Afeltra A, Cantatore FP, Bruno C, Corrado A, Emmi L, Emmi G, Grembiale RD, Navarini L, Marcoccia A, Liakouli V, Riccardi A, Valentini G, Perosa F. Evaluation of the influence of social, demographic, environmental, work-related factors and/or lifestyle habits on Raynaud's phenomenon: a case-control study. Clin Exp Med 2020; 20:31-37. [PMID: 31679095 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-019-00589-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is a clinical disorder characterized by recurrent, reversible episodes of digital vasospasm. RP can be classified as primary (pRP) or secondary, depending on whether it occurs as a benign condition (not disease-associated) or is associated with other diseases, mainly of the connective tissues. In both cases, it can be triggered by environmental factors, as indicated by the increased incidence of pRP episodes following exposure to cold, vibration injury or chemicals. The purpose of this prospective case-control study was to assess, in an Italian cohort of 132 pRP patients, the association of the phenomenon with demographic, lifestyle habits, environmental and work-related factors. Compared to healthy controls, pRP was found to be inversely associated with the use of contact lenses (OR = 0.4; p = 0.004) and of chlorous-based disinfectants (OR = 0.3; p < 0.001) and directly associated with the presence of prosthesis implants (OR = 5.3; p = 0.001) and the use of hydrogen peroxide-based compounds (OR = 2.6; p = 0.002), suggesting that the latter should be avoided in RP affected patients. Multivariate and multivariable analysis confirmed the associations. Further investigations are needed to understand the mechanism(s) underlying these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Prete
- Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology (DIMO), University of Bari Medical School, Piazza G. Cesare 11, I-70124, Bari, Italy
| | - E Favoino
- Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology (DIMO), University of Bari Medical School, Piazza G. Cesare 11, I-70124, Bari, Italy
| | - R Giacomelli
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - A Afeltra
- Clinical Medicine and Rheumatology Department, Campus Bio-Medico, University of Roma, Roma, Italy
| | - F P Cantatore
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia Medical School, Foggia, Italy
| | - C Bruno
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - A Corrado
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia Medical School, Foggia, Italy
| | - L Emmi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Pharmacology and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | - G Emmi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | - R D Grembiale
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - L Navarini
- Clinical Medicine and Rheumatology Department, Campus Bio-Medico, University of Roma, Roma, Italy
| | - A Marcoccia
- UOSD of Ischemic Microangiopathy and Sclerodermic Ulcers, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Roma, Italy
| | - V Liakouli
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - A Riccardi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - G Valentini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - F Perosa
- Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology (DIMO), University of Bari Medical School, Piazza G. Cesare 11, I-70124, Bari, Italy.
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Cordeiro RA, Andrade RMD. Raynaud's phenomenon in the occupational context. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 65:1314-1320. [PMID: 31721965 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.65.10.1314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review articles that evaluated the prevalence of Raynaud's phenomenon of occupational origin. METHODS The search for articles was carried out in the Medline (via PubMed), Embase, Web of Science, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), and Latin America and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (Lilacs) databases. RESULTS 64 articles were obtained from the electronic search; 18 articles met the eligibility criteria. All studies discussed the exposure to vibrations in the upper limbs. In 6 of them, the thermal issue was directly or indirectly addressed. No studies have addressed exposure to vinyl chloride. CONCLUSIO In general, a higher prevalence of Raynaud's phenomenon was found among vibratory tool operators compared to non-exposed workers, with an increase in the number of cases the higher the level of vibration and the time of exposure. Cold is a triggering and aggravating factor of the Raynaud phenomenon and seems to play an important role in the emergence of vascular manifestations of the hand-arm vibration syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Alves Cordeiro
- . Divisão de Medicina Ocupacional, Instituto Oscar Freire, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Rogério Muniz de Andrade
- . Divisão de Medicina Ocupacional, Instituto Oscar Freire, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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Golmohammadi R, Darvishi E. The combined effects of occupational exposure to noise and other risk factors - a systematic review. Noise Health 2019; 21:125-141. [PMID: 32719300 PMCID: PMC7650855 DOI: 10.4103/nah.nah_4_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Noise-induced health effects exacerbate by many other risk factors. This systematic review aims at shedding light on the combined effects of co-exposure to occupational noise and other factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS A literature search in Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, with appropriate keywords on combined effects of occupational noise, and co-exposure to noise and other factors, revealed 7928 articles which were screened by two researchers. A total of 775 articles were reviewed in full text. We found 149 articles that were relevant and had sufficient quality for analysis. RESULTS We identified 16 risk factors that exacerbate occupational noise-induced health effects. These factors were classified into four groups: chemical (carbon monoxide (CO), solvents, heavy metals, and other chemicals), physical (lighting, heat, vibration, and cold), personal (age, gender, genetics, smoking, medication, contextual diseases) and occupational (workload and shift work). Hearing loss, hypertension, reduced performance, and cardiovascular strains, are the most important risk factors combined effects due to concurrent exposure to noise and other risk factors. CONCLUSION Evidences of combined effects of solvents, vibration, heavy metals, CO, smoking, chemicals, aging, heat, and shiftwork were respectively stronger than for other factors. Most of the studies have investigated only the combined effects of risk factors on hearing, and the evidence for non-auditory effects is still limited, and more studies are warranted. Therefore, in the Hearing Conservation Programs, besides noise, aggravating factors of noise effects should also be taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rostam Golmohammadi
- Center of Excellence for Occupational Health, School of Public Health and Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Darvishi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Environmental Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
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Luo Q, Li S, Guo Y, Han X, Jaakkola JJK. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between daily mean temperature and mortality in China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 173:281-299. [PMID: 30928859 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.03.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We summarized the evidence on the effects of heat and cold exposures on mortality in China. We included studies published on this topic in both Chinese and English, thereby filling a gap in knowledge using data from a country that consists of one-fifth of the world's population. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of peer-reviewed studies on the association between daily mean temperature and mortality published from 2001 up to July 2018. We searched one Chinese database (China National Knowledge infrastructure, http://www.cnki.net) and three English databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science). We converted the effect estimates of heat/cold to rate ratios (RRs) associated with 1° increase/decrease beyond the heat/cold reference temperatures. For studies that provided lag-specific estimates, we used both the maximum and minimum of RR estimates. We calculated summary effect estimates for all-cause and cause-specific mortalities, as well as RRs stratified by sex, age, and socioeconomic status. We also investigated patterns of heat and cold adaptation at different latitudes, and at different reference temperatures. RESULTS In total, 45 articles were included in this systematic review. For every 1° temperature increase/decrease beyond reference points, the rate of non-accidental mortality increased by 2% (RR, 1.02; 95% confidence interval (95% CI [1.01-1.02]) for heat and 4% (RR, 1.04; 95% CI [1.03-1.04]) for cold, respectively; the rate of cardiovascular mortality increased 3% (RR, 1.03; 95% CI [1.03-1.04]) for heat and 6% (RR, 1.06; 95% CI [1.04-1.07]) for cold; the rate of respiratory mortality increased 2% (RR, 1.02; 95% CI [1.01-1.03]) for heat and 2% (RR, 1.02; 95% CI [1.00-1.04]) for cold; the rate of cerebrovascular mortality increased 2% (RR, 1.02; 95% CI [1.02-1.03]) for heat and 3% (RR, 1.03; 95% CI [1.02-1.04]) for cold. We identified a variation in optimal temperature range related to latitude of the residential area, and differences in people's capability to adapt to heat versus cold. CONCLUSION We found consistent evidence of the association between temperature and mortality, as well as evidence of patterns in human adaptation, and we discussed the implications of our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianlai Luo
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research (CERH), University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu (MRC Oulu), Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| | - Shanshan Li
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research (CERH), University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Yuming Guo
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research (CERH), University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Xuemei Han
- NatureServe, 4600 North Fairfax Drive, Arlington, Virginia, 22203, USA
| | - Jouni J K Jaakkola
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research (CERH), University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu (MRC Oulu), Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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PETTERSSON H, RISSANEN S, WAHLSTRÖM J, RINTAMÄKI H. Skin temperature responses to hand-arm vibration in cold and thermoneutral ambient temperatures. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2018; 56:545-552. [PMID: 29973466 PMCID: PMC6258748 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2018-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Hand-arm vibration (HAV) from hand-held vibrating machines increases the risk of injury in the form of vasoconstriction in the fingers, commonly named as vibration induced white fingers (VWF). Cold temperature may increase that risk. This experimental study examined and compared the effects of the skin temperature of the hands during and after exposure to HAV in thermoneutral and cold conditions. Fourteen subjects were exposed to three conditions: 25°C with HAV, 5°C with HAV or 5°C without HAV. Their skin temperatures were continuously recorded for the thumbs, index fingers, palms, and back of hands. After 20 min of acclimatization, the subjects held, for five min, two handles where the right handle could vibrate at 5 m/s2 and the left was stationary. Finally, they released their grip and stood still for 10 more min. HAV had no additional cooling effect in cold during gripping of the handles. After the subjects released the handles there was only a HAV-induced cooling effect in the left palm with on average 0.5°C colder skin temperature. A single exposure to HAV will not cause an injury such as VWF, but as the present study show: short-term exposure to HAV causes some changes in skin temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans PETTERSSON
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine,
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umea University, Sweden
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Finland
| | | | - Jens WAHLSTRÖM
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine,
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umea University, Sweden
| | - Hannu RINTAMÄKI
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Finland
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, University of Oulu,
Finland
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16
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Austad H, Wiggen Ø, Færevik H, Seeberg TM. Towards a wearable sensor system for continuous occupational cold stress assessment. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2018; 56:228-240. [PMID: 29353859 PMCID: PMC5985462 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2017-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the usefulness of continuous sensor data for improving occupational cold stress assessment. Eleven volunteer male subjects completed a 90-120-min protocol in cold environments, consisting of rest, moderate and hard work. Biomedical data were measured using a smart jacket with integrated temperature, humidity and activity sensors, in addition to a custom-made sensor belt worn around the chest. Other relevant sensor data were measured using commercially available sensors. The study aimed to improve decision support for workers in cold climates, by taking advantage of the information provided by data from the rapidly growing market of wearable sensors. Important findings were that the subjective thermal sensation did not correspond to the measured absolute skin temperature and that large differences were observed in both metabolic energy production and skin temperatures under identical exposure conditions. Temperature, humidity, activity and heart rate were found to be relevant parameters for cold stress assessment, and the locations of the sensors in the prototype jacket were adequate. The study reveals the need for cold stress assessment and indicates that a generalised approached is not sufficient to assess the stress on an individual level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Austad
- Department of Smart Sensor Systems, SINTEF DIGITAL, Norway
| | - Øystein Wiggen
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Technology and Society, Norway
| | - Hilde Færevik
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Technology and Society, Norway
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17
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Zeng P, Bengtsson C, Klareskog L, Alfredsson L. Working in cold environment and risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis: results from the Swedish EIRA case-control study. RMD Open 2017; 3:e000488. [PMID: 28879055 PMCID: PMC5574417 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2017-000488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To investigate (1) whether working in cold environment (WCE) is associated with an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (overall), anticitrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)-positive RA and ACPA-negative RA and (2) whether WCE interacts with occupational physical workload in conferring RA risk. Methods Data from the Swedish population-based case-control study Epidemiological Investigation of Rheumatoid Arthritis involving 3659 incident cases and 5925 controls were analysed. Study participants were asked whether they had ever worked in cold/outdoor environment along with their exposure duration and frequency. Occurrence of RA among exposed and unexposed subjects were compared by calculating ORs with 95% CI using logistic regression. Additive interactions between WCE and six types of physical workload were assessed using the principle of departure from additivity by calculating attributable proportion due to interaction (AP). Results The OR associated with having ever worked in cold environment was 1.5 (95% CI 1.4 to 1.7) for RA (overall), 1.6 (95% CI 1.4 to 1.8) for ACPA-positive RA and 1.4 (95% CI 1.2 to 1.6) for ACPA-negative RA. The risk of developing RA increased with increasing cumulative dose of working in cold indoor environment (p value <0.001), but not working in cold outdoor environment. Positive additive interaction was observed between WCE and repetitive hand/finger movements (AP 0.3 (95% CI 0.1 to 0.5)). Conclusions WCE is associated with increased risk of developing both ACPA-positive and ACPA-negative RA. A dose–response relationship was found between working in cold indoor environment and risk of developing RA. Moderate additive interaction was observed between exposure to cold environment and exposure to repetitive hand/finger movements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingling Zeng
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Camilla Bengtsson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Klareskog
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Alfredsson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
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Nilsson T, Wahlström J, Burström L. Hand-arm vibration and the risk of vascular and neurological diseases-A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180795. [PMID: 28704466 PMCID: PMC5509149 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increased occurrence of Raynaud’s phenomenon, neurosensory injury and carpal tunnel syndrome has been reported for more than 100 years in association with work with vibrating machines. The current risk prediction modelling (ISO-5349) for “Raynaud’s phenomenon” is based on a few studies published 70 to 40 years ago. There are no corresponding risk prediction models for neurosensory injury or carpal tunnel syndrome, nor any systematic reviews comprising a statistical synthesis (meta-analysis) of the evidence. Objectives Our aim was to provide a systematic review of the literature on the association between Raynaud’s phenomenon, neurosensory injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome and hand-arm vibration (HAV) exposure. Moreover the aim was to estimate the magnitude of such an association using meta-analysis. Methods This systematic review covers the scientific literature up to January 2016. The databases used for the literature search were PubMed and Science Direct. We found a total of 4,335 abstracts, which were read and whose validity was assessed according to pre-established criteria. 294 articles were examined in their entirety to determine whether each article met the inclusion criteria. The possible risk of bias was assessed for each article. 52 articles finally met the pre-established criteria for inclusion in the systematic review. Results The results show that workers who are exposed to HAV have an increased risk of vascular and neurological diseases compared to non-vibration exposed groups. The crude estimate of the risk increase is approximately 4–5 fold. The estimated effect size (odds ratio) is 6.9 for the studies of Raynaud’s phenomenon when including only the studies judged to have a low risk of bias. The corresponding risk of neurosensory injury is 7.4 and the equivalent of carpal tunnel syndrome is 2.9. Conclusion At equal exposures, neurosensory injury occurs with a 3-time factor shorter latency than Raynaud’s phenomenon. Which is why preventive measures should address this vibration health hazard with greater attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohr Nilsson
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health & Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Jens Wahlström
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health & Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Lage Burström
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health & Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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MIRBOD SM, SUGIURA H. A non-invasive technique for the evaluation of peripheral circulatory functions in female subjects with Raynaud's phenomenon. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2017; 55:275-284. [PMID: 28321017 PMCID: PMC5462643 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2016-0201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Japanese women now account for 43 percent of the labor force. A number of them are involved in construction, agricultural and forestry jobs. The aim of this study was to establish a non-invasive technique for the evaluation of peripheral circulatory functions in women with Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) and introduce a specific method for the assessment of vascular disturbances in females exposed to hand-transmitted vibration. The subjects of this study were 10 women with primary RP, 7 women with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) secondary to RP, and 17 females who were included as the control group. The evaluation of peripheral circulatory functions in all subjects was based on the values of finger blood flow (FBF) and finger skin temperature (FST) measured before, during and following a 5-min recovery period after the hand was immersed in cold water (5°C, 1 min). The measured values of FBF and FST of the primary RP group before and after the immersion test were significantly (p<0.01) lower compared to those of the control group. The technique applied in this study could be used as a non-invasive and tolerable technique to determine the digital circulatory functions in female subjects with RP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Haruo SUGIURA
- Laboratory of Health and Sport Science, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Japan
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20
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Perečinský S, Murínová L, Engler I, Donič V, Murín P, Varga M, Legáth L. Effects of partially ionised medical oxygen, especially with O2•-, in vibration white finger patients. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 11:5698-707. [PMID: 24871260 PMCID: PMC4078543 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph110605698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A major symptom of hand-arm vibration syndrome is a secondary Raynaud's phenomenon-vibration white finger (VWF)-which results from a vasospasm of the digital arteries caused by work with vibration devices leading to occupational disease. Pharmacotherapy of VWF is often ineffective or has adverse effects. The aim of this work was to verify the influence of inhalation of partially ionized oxygen (O2•-) on peripheral blood vessels in the hands of patients with VWF. Ninety one (91)patients with VWF underwent four-finger adsorption plethysmography, and the pulse wave amplitude was recorded expressed in numeric parameters-called the native record. Next, a cold water test was conducted following with second plethysmography. The patients were divided in to the three groups. First and second inhaled 20-min of ionized oxygen O2•- or oxygen O2 respectively. Thirth group was control without treatment. All three groups a follow-up third plethysmography-the post-therapy record. Changes in the pulse wave amplitudes were evaluated. Inpatients group inhaling O2•- a modest increase of pulse wave amplitude was observed compared to the native record; patients inhaling medical oxygen O2 and the control showed a undesirable decline of pulse wave amplitude in VWF fingers. Strong vasodilatation were more frequent in the group inhaling O2•- compare to O2 (p < 0.05). Peripheral vasodilatation achieved by inhalation of O2•- could be used for VWF treatment without undesirable side effect in hospital as well as at home environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slavomír Perečinský
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 04190 Kosice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Lenka Murínová
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 04190 Kosice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Ivan Engler
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 04001 Kosice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Viliam Donič
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 04001 Kosice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Pavol Murín
- Cardiology Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 04001 Košice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Marek Varga
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 04190 Kosice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Lubomír Legáth
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 04190 Kosice, Slovak Republic.
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Herin F, Vézina M, Thaon I, Soulat JM, Paris C. Predictive risk factors for chronic regional and multisite musculoskeletal pain: A 5-year prospective study in a working population. Pain 2014; 155:937-943. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2014.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Revised: 01/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Su AT, Fukumoto J, Darus A, Hoe VCW, Miyai N, Isahak M, Takemura S, Bulgiba A, Yoshimasu K, Maeda S, Miyashita K. A comparison of hand-arm vibration syndrome between Malaysian and Japanese workers. J Occup Health 2013; 55:468-78. [PMID: 24162147 DOI: 10.1539/joh.13-0059-oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics of HAVS in a tropical environment in comparison with a temperate environment. METHODS We conducted a series medical examinations among the forestry, construction and automobile industry workers in Malaysia adopting the compulsory medical examination procedure used by Wakayama Medical University for Japanese vibratory tools workers. We matched the duration of vibration exposure and compared our results against the Japanese workers. We also compared the results of the Malaysian tree fellers against a group of symptomatic Japanese tree fellers diagnosed with HAVS. RESULTS Malaysian subjects reported a similar prevalence of finger tingling, numbness and dullness (Malaysian=25.0%, Japanese=21.5%, p=0.444) but had a lower finger skin temperature (FST) and higher vibrotactile perception threshold (VPT) values as compared with the Japanese workers. No white finger was reported in Malaysian subjects. The FST and VPT of the Malaysian tree fellers were at least as bad as the Japanese tree fellers despite a shorter duration (mean difference=20.12 years, 95%CI=14.50, 25.40) of vibration exposure. CONCLUSIONS Although the vascular disorder does not manifest clinically in the tropical environment, the severity of HAVS can be as bad as in the temperate environment with predominantly neurological disorder. Hence, it is essential to formulate national legislation for the control of the occupational vibration exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anselm Ting Su
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Malaya
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Burström L, Järvholm B, Nilsson T, Wahlström J. Back and neck pain due to working in a cold environment: a cross-sectional study of male construction workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2012; 86:809-13. [PMID: 23001633 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-012-0818-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study whether work in a cold environment increased the risk of musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck and low back among construction workers. METHODS This cross-sectional study is based on a cohort of male workers in the Swedish construction industry that participated in regular health examinations through a nationwide occupational health service. The analysis is based on workers examined from 1971 to 1974, who answered a questionnaire including questions about neck and back pain. The cohort consists of 134,754 male workers, including 16,496 office workers and foremen. The health examinations of the workers were conducted in provinces covering Sweden from the south to the north, and temperature data were collected for the provinces. In the analyses, the results were adjusted for age, BMI and use of nicotine. RESULTS The prevalence's of neck and low back pain were higher among manual construction workers than among foremen and office workers (24.3 vs. 8.6 % and 16.5 vs. 6.2 %, respectively); the corresponding adjusted ORs for low back and neck pain were 1.59 (95 % CI 1.52-1.66) and 1.39 (95 % CI 1.30-1.49), respectively. Workers in the northern and central provinces had higher ORs for low back and neck pain compared to workers in the southern province. The test for trends showed an increased risk of developing low back and neck pain with decreased outdoor temperature. CONCLUSIONS Outdoor work in a cold environment may increase the risk of low back and neck pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lage Burström
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden,
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Roquelaure Y, Ha C, Le Manac'h AP, Bodin J, Bodere A, Bosseau C, Descatha A, Leclerc A, Goldberg M, Imbernon E. Risk factors for Raynaud's phenomenon in the workforce. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2012; 64:898-904. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.21615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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