1
|
Carey RN, Crawford G, Jancey J, Lam T, Nimmo L, Trapp G, Pollard C, Hooper P, Leavy JE. Young people's alcohol use in and around water: A scoping review of the literature. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024; 43:874-896. [PMID: 38461491 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
ISSUES The surrounding social and commercial context, including alcohol advertising, heavily influences alcohol consumption. Alcohol use is a major risk factor for both fatal and non-fatal drowning, particularly for young people. APPROACH We conducted a scoping review to explore the peer-reviewed literature on the use of alcohol by young people (aged 15-34 years) in the context of aquatic environments. Five electronic academic databases were searched for English-language studies conducted in high-income countries and published in the last 15 years (since 2008). The MetaQAT framework was used to assess methodological quality of included studies. KEY FINDINGS The review included a total of 24 studies, including those addressing the prevalence of and/or risk factors for alcohol use in aquatic environments among young people (n = 13); the epidemiology of alcohol-related unintentional drowning in young people (n = 9); and interventions to reduce alcohol-related harm around water (n = 3). Findings suggest that young people commonly consume alcohol around water, particularly young men. We found multiple influences on this behaviour, including the perception of risk, location of aquatic activity and presence of others, particularly peers. IMPLICATIONS Understanding the literature addressing alcohol use around water among young people will assist in identifying and setting priorities for drowning prevention, including the need to mitigate the effects of alcohol advertising which promotes drinking in and around water. CONCLUSION There is a clear imperative to address the use of alcohol by young people in aquatic environments. These findings have key implications for public health policy, advocacy and practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Gemma Crawford
- Collaboration for Evidence Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Jonine Jancey
- Collaboration for Evidence Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Tina Lam
- Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lauren Nimmo
- Research, Media and Communications, Royal Life Saving Society Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Gina Trapp
- Nutrition and Health Innovation Research Institute, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Paula Hooper
- Nutrition and Health Innovation Research Institute, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Justine E Leavy
- Collaboration for Evidence Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jancey J, Carey RN, Freeman B, Leaver T, Wolf K, Bromberg M, Chai K, Bialous S, Adams P, Mcleod M, McCausland K. E-cigarettes on Instagram: Exploring vape content via an Australian vaping influencer. Tob Induc Dis 2024; 22:TID-22-19. [PMID: 38250632 PMCID: PMC10798224 DOI: 10.18332/tid/175619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mounting evidence suggests that electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are extensively promoted and marketed using social media, including through user-generated content and social media influencers. This study explores how e-cigarettes are being promoted on Instagram, using a case-study approach, and the extent to which Meta's Restricted Goods and Services Policy (Meta's policy) is being applied and enforced. METHODS We identified the accounts followed by an Australian Instagram influencer who primarily posts e-cigarette-related content. The main foci of these 855 accounts were coded and 369 vaping-focused accounts were identified. These vaping-focused accounts were then further coded by two trained coders. RESULTS All (n=369; 100.0%) of the vape content posted by these accounts was positive in sentiment. One-third of the vape accounts (n=127; 34.4%) had a shared focus, indicating that vape content may permeate into other online communities through shared interests. A total of 64 accounts (17.3%) potentially violated Meta's policy by attempting to purchase, sell, raffle or gift e-cigarette products. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest that pro-vaping information is available and accessible on Instagram. Much of the content identified in this study promoted the purchase or gifting of e-cigarette products and potentially violates Meta's policy. Greater regulation and/or stronger enforcement of e-cigarette content on social media platforms such as Instagram is necessary to prevent the ongoing promotion of these harmful products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonine Jancey
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Renee N. Carey
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Becky Freeman
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tama Leaver
- Internet Studies, School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Katharina Wolf
- School of Management and Marketing, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Marilyn Bromberg
- Law School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Kevin Chai
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Stella Bialous
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, United States
| | - Phoebe Adams
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Meghan Mcleod
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Kahlia McCausland
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Carey RN, Fritschi L, Nguyen H, Abdallah K, Driscoll TR. Factors Influencing the Use of Control Measures to Reduce Occupational Exposure to Welding Fume in Australia: A Qualitative Study. Saf Health Work 2023; 14:384-389. [PMID: 38187202 PMCID: PMC10770092 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Exposure to welding fume is associated with adverse effects on worker health. The use of various control measures can reduce levels of exposure and the resulting health effects. However, little is known about the factors that may influence workers' use of control measures in the workplace and their perceived intervention needs. This study aimed to investigate workers' and other stakeholders' views on ways to improve the use of welding fume control measures in Australian workplaces. Methods We conducted a series of online focus group discussions and individual interviews with participants who have some occupational involvement in welding, whether as workers, employers or industry representatives, union representatives, or regulators. A semi-structured question guide was used, and all discussions and interviews were recorded and transcribed for analysis. Results Five focus group discussions and five individual interviews were conducted with a total of 21 participants. Three major themes emerged. The first addressed the current awareness of welding fume harms and concern about exposure; the second focussed on the current use of control measures, and barriers and facilitators to their use; and the last centred around intervention needs and the contents of a potential effective intervention. Conclusion Improving the use of control measures to prevent exposure to welding fume requires knowledge around the barriers and facilitators of control, use, and the intervention needs of stakeholders. This study has provided such knowledge, which will facilitate the design and implementation of an intervention to reduce welding fume exposure and ultimately protect the health of workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N. Carey
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ha Nguyen
- Centre for Work Health and Safety, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kamil Abdallah
- Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Timothy R. Driscoll
- Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jancey J, Leaver T, Wolf K, Freeman B, Chai K, Bialous S, Bromberg M, Adams P, Mcleod M, Carey RN, McCausland K. Promotion of E-Cigarettes on TikTok and Regulatory Considerations. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:5761. [PMID: 37239490 PMCID: PMC10217796 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
E-cigarettes are promoted extensively on TikTok and other social media platforms. Platform policies to restrict e-cigarette promotion seem insufficient and are poorly enforced. This paper aims to understand how e-cigarettes are being promoted on TikTok and provide insights into the effectiveness of current TikTok policies. Seven popular hashtag-based keywords were used to identify TikTok accounts and associated videos related to e-cigarettes. Posts were independently coded by two trained coders. Collectively, the 264 videos received 2,470,373 views, 166,462 likes and 3426 comments. The overwhelming majority of videos (97.7%) portrayed e-cigarettes positively, and these posts received 98.7% of the total views and 98.2% of the total likes. A total of 69 posts (26.1%) clearly violated TikTok's own content policy. The findings of the current study suggest that a variety of predominantly pro-vaping content is available on TikTok. Current policies and moderation processes appear to be insufficient in restricting the spread of pro-e-cigarette content on TikTok, putting predominantly young users at potential risk of e-cigarette use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonine Jancey
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Tama Leaver
- Internet Studies, School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Katharina Wolf
- School of Marketing, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Becky Freeman
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Kevin Chai
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Stella Bialous
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Marilyn Bromberg
- UWA Law School, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Phoebe Adams
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Meghan Mcleod
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Renee N. Carey
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Kahlia McCausland
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nilsson S, Bräunig J, Carey RN, Hui J, Smurthwaite K, Toms LM, Kirk MD, Mueller JF, Fritschi L. Longitudinal measurements of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in archived human serum samples between 1975 and 1995 in Australia. J Hazard Mater 2023; 443:130307. [PMID: 36444050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of manmade compounds produced since the 1950 s and used in a range of industrial processes and consumer products. In Australia, PFAS serum concentrations have been measured in the general population since 2002. However, few studies have retrospectively measured PFAS concentrations in serum samples representative of a general population prior to 2000, none of which have been conducted in Australia. To understand the general population's exposure to PFAS prior to 2002, longitudinal PFAS serum concentration measurements are required. In the current study, we accessed 'The Busselton Health Study Data Bank' to analyse archived serum samples for PFAS. Repeat serum samples collected in 1975, 1981 and 1995 were obtained from 17 participants. Of the 35 PFAS analysed, 13 PFAS were detected in the serum samples collected in 1975. Both the detection frequency and ∑PFAS serum concentrations increased between 1975 and 1995. Median ∑PFAS serum concentration increased over 7-fold; from 3.3 ng/mL in 1975-26 ng/mL in 1995. The increase in serum concentrations reflects the global production history of these PFAS during this period in time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Nilsson
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.
| | - Jennifer Bräunig
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jennie Hui
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Kayla Smurthwaite
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Leisa-Maree Toms
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, QLD, Australia
| | - Martyn D Kirk
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Jochen F Mueller
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Carey RN, Whiteman DC, Webb PM, Neale RE, Reid A, Norman R, Fritschi L. The future excess fraction of cancer due to lifestyle factors in Australia. Cancer Epidemiol 2021; 75:102049. [PMID: 34710670 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2021.102049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many cancers are caused by exposure to lifestyle, environmental, and occupational factors. Earlier studies have estimated the number of cancers occurring in a single year which are attributable to past exposures to these factors. However, there is now increasing appreciation that estimates of the future burden of cancer may be more useful for policy and prevention. We aimed to calculate the future number of cancers expected to arise as a result of exposure to 23 modifiable risk factors. METHODS We used the future excess fraction (FEF) method to estimate the lifetime burden of cancer (2016-2098) among Australian adults who were exposed to modifiable lifestyle, environmental, and occupational risk factors in 2016. Calculations were conducted for 26 cancer sites and 78 cancer-risk factor pairings. RESULTS The cohort of 18.8 million adult Australians in 2016 will develop an estimated 7.6 million cancers during their lifetime, of which 1.8 million (24%) will be attributable to exposure to modifiable risk factors. Cancer sites with the highest number of future attributable cancers were colon and rectum (n = 717,700), lung (n = 380,400), and liver (n = 103,200). The highest number of future cancers will be attributable to exposure to tobacco smoke (n = 583,500), followed by overweight/obesity (n = 333,100) and alcohol consumption (n = 249,700). CONCLUSION A significant proportion of future cancers will result from recent levels of exposure to modifiable risk factors. Our results provide direct, pertinent information to help determine where preventive measures could best be targeted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - David C Whiteman
- Department of Population Health, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Penelope M Webb
- Department of Population Health, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rachel E Neale
- Department of Population Health, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Richard Norman
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Carey RN, Pfau JC, Fritzler MJ, Creaney J, de Klerk N, Musk AW(B, Franklin P, Sodhi-Berry N, Brims F, Reid A. Autoantibodies and cancer among asbestos-exposed cohorts in Western Australia. J Toxicol Environ Health A 2021; 84:475-483. [PMID: 33678145 PMCID: PMC10726378 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2021.1889424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Asbestos exposure is associated with many adverse health conditions including malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer as well as production of autoantibodies. Autoantibodies may serve as biomarkers for asbestos exposure in patients with cancer, and autoimmune dysfunction has been linked to increased rates of various cancers. The aim of this study was to examine the hypothesis that autoantibodies are more frequent in asbestos-exposed individuals with either lung cancer or mesothelioma than those without these conditions. Asbestos-exposed individuals from Western Australia who had lung cancer (n = 24), malignant mesothelioma (n = 24), or no malignancy (n = 51) were tested for antinuclear autoantibodies (ANA) using indirect immunofluorescence and specific extractable nuclear autoantibodies (ENA) employing a multiplexed addressable laser bead immunoassay. Contrary to the hypothesis, data demonstrated that individuals without malignancy were more likely to be positive for ANA compared to those with cancer. However, autoantibodies to histone and Ro-60 were found to be associated with lung cancer. These results support a possible predictive value for specific autoantibodies in the early detection of lung cancer and/or in our understanding of the role of autoimmune processes in cancer. However, further studies are needed to identify specific target antigens for the antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Jean C Pfau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | | | - Jenette Creaney
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Nicholas de Klerk
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Arthur W (Bill) Musk
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Peter Franklin
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Nita Sodhi-Berry
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Fraser Brims
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Carey RN, El-Zaemey S, Daly A, Fritschi L, Glass DC, Reid A. Are There Ethnic Disparities in Exposure to Workplace Hazards Among New Zealand Migrants to Australia? Asia Pac J Public Health 2021; 33:870-879. [PMID: 33847173 DOI: 10.1177/10105395211007648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Disparities in exposure to workplace hazards exist between Māori and non-Māori workers in New Zealand, with Māori workers generally incurring poorer conditions. This study aimed to determine if these ethnic disparities are similar after migration to Australia. A national cross-sectional telephone survey asked participants what tasks they undertook in their job to assess exposure to carcinogens as well as whether they experienced ethnic discrimination, bullying, job precariousness, or job strain. A total of 389 New Zealand Caucasians and 152 Māori/Pasifika workers were recruited. After adjustment, 79% of Māori/Pasifika compared with 67% of New Zealand Caucasian workers were assessed as being exposed to at least one carcinogen at work (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1-1.4). Māori/Pasifika workers were also more likely to report ethnic discrimination (aPR = 6.9, 95% CI = 2.6-18.3) and fair or poor current health (aPR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.1-3.2) than New Zealand Caucasians. Some ethnic disparities in exposure to workplace hazards in New Zealand are apparent after migration to Australia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sonia El-Zaemey
- Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia.,BreastScreen Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Alison Daly
- Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Alison Reid
- Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
McKenzie JF, El-Zaemey S, Carey RN. Prevalence of exposure to multiple occupational carcinogens among exposed workers in Australia. Occup Environ Med 2020; 78:oemed-2020-106629. [PMID: 32948666 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-106629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Workers can be exposed to a range of different carcinogenic agents in the workplace. However, previous studies have often focused on prevalence of exposure to a single carcinogen, resulting in substantial knowledge gaps regarding the extent of multiple exposures in the workplace. This study aims to investigate the current prevalence of occupational exposure to multiple carcinogens among exposed workers in Australia. METHODS The data for this study come from the Australian Work Exposures Study, a nationwide cross-sectional telephone survey of Australian workers aged between 18 and 65. Information was collected about the respondents' current employment and numerous demographic factors using a web-based application (Occupational Integrated Database Exposure Assessment System) to conduct the interview, with predefined algorithms used to automatically assign exposures to carcinogens based on the respondents' job tasks. RESULTS The majority (81%) of exposed respondents were assessed as being probably exposed to more than one carcinogen, and 26% reported exposure to five or more carcinogens. We found that after adjusting for occupation, exposure to multiple carcinogens was more likely among male respondents, while older workers (aged between 55 and 65) were less likely to be exposed to multiple carcinogens. CONCLUSIONS This study provides information on the prevalence of exposure to multiple carcinogens in the general population that has not previously been reported. This information could be useful for the intervention and control of occupational exposures to the prioritised carcinogens identified in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer F McKenzie
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sonia El-Zaemey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rai R, Fritschi L, Carey RN, Lewkowski K, Glass DC, Dorji N, El‐Zaemey S. The estimated prevalence of exposure to carcinogens, asthmagens, and ototoxic agents among healthcare workers in Australia. Am J Ind Med 2020; 63:624-633. [PMID: 32236973 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers are occupationally exposed to various hazardous chemicals and agents that can potentially result in long-term adverse health effects. These exposures have not been comprehensively examined at a population level. The aim of this study was to examine occupational exposures to a wide range of asthmagens, carcinogens, and ototoxic agents among healthcare workers in Australia. METHODS Data were collected as part of the Australian Work Exposures Studies, which were computer-assisted telephone surveys conducted in 2011, 2014, and 2016 to assess the prevalence of occupational exposures to carcinogens, asthmagens, and ototoxic agents, respectively, among Australian workers. Using data on healthcare workers, the prevalence of exposures to these agents was calculated and associations of demographic variables and occupation groups with exposure status were examined. RESULTS The prevalence of exposure to at least one asthmagen, carcinogen, and ototoxic agent was 92.3%, 50.7%, and 44.6%, respectively. The most common exposures were to (a) cleaning and sterilizing agents in the asthmagen group; (b) shift work in the carcinogen group; and (c) toluene and p-xylene among ototoxic agents. Exposure varied by occupation, with exposure to carcinogens and ototoxic agents highest among personal carers and exposure to carcinogens most likely among nursing professionals and health and welfare support workers. CONCLUSION The results demonstrate that a substantial proportion of Australian healthcare workers are occupationally exposed to asthmagens, carcinogens, and ototoxic agents. These exposures are more common among certain occupational groups. The information provided by this study will be useful in prioritizing and implementing control strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajni Rai
- School of Public HealthCurtin University Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public HealthCurtin University Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Renee N. Carey
- School of Public HealthCurtin University Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Kate Lewkowski
- School of Public HealthCurtin University Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Deborah C. Glass
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Nidup Dorji
- Faculty of Nursing and Public HealthKhesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan Thimphu Bhutan
| | - Sonia El‐Zaemey
- School of Public HealthCurtin University Bentley Western Australia Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Carey RN, El-Zaemey S. Lifestyle and occupational factors associated with participation in breast mammography screening among Western Australian women. J Med Screen 2019; 27:77-84. [DOI: 10.1177/0969141319878747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Various lifestyle and occupational factors have been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, but there is limited research investigating the relationship between these factors and participation in breast cancer screening. This study explores the associations between lifestyle and occupational factors and participation in breast mammography screening among women living in Western Australia. Methods This study involved 1705 women aged 40 and older who participated as controls in the Breast Cancer Environment and Employment Study conducted in Western Australia. Self-reported questionnaire data were collected on participation in mammography screening, demographic factors, and lifestyle and occupational variables (smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, body mass index, use of contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy, breastfeeding, occupation, and participation in shift work). Multivariate modified Poisson regression was used to identify variables associated with ever participation in breast mammography screening. Results Just over 88% of women reported having ever had a mammogram. Likelihood of having ever had a mammogram was higher among women who had ever used hormone replacement therapy (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) = 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.07). Women who worked in clerical occupations (aPR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.01–1.11) or home duties (aPR = 1.05, 95% CI 1.00–1.11) were also more likely to report having ever had a mammogram compared with those in professional or technical occupations. Conclusions Participation in mammography screening was found to differ by lifestyle and occupational factors. These results have important implications for public health strategies on improving screening participation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Sonia El-Zaemey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Carey RN, El-Zaemey S. Lifestyle and occupational factors associated with participation in colorectal cancer screening among men and women in Australia. Prev Med 2019; 126:105777. [PMID: 31319115 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.105777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study explores the associations between lifestyle and occupational factors and participation in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among men and women aged 50 and over and living in Australia. We used weighted data from the Australian National Health Survey 2014-15 to produce population estimates. Lifestyle variables investigated were smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, fruit and vegetable consumption, and body mass index, while the occupational variables were labour force status, occupation, and participation in shift work. Using weighted data, 1,990,287 men (55%) and 1,898,232 women (49%) reported ever-screening for CRC. Female current smokers were less likely to report ever-screening for CRC (adjusted RR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.64-0.96), as were men who were less physically active (aRR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.78-0.97), reported no alcohol consumption (aRR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.59-0.91), and reported eating more vegetables (aRR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.72-0.99). When lifestyle behaviours were combined into a healthy lifestyle index score, a significant trend was observed for both men and women, whereby those who reported engaging in more healthy behaviours were more likely to have ever-screened for CRC (p = .027 men; p < .001 women). No associations were observed between CRC screening and occupational variables. This is the first comprehensive assessment of the lifestyle and occupational factors associated with participation in CRC screening among men and women in Australia. Participation in CRC screening was greater among those engaging in more healthy behaviours, suggesting that an individual's pattern of lifestyle behaviours may be important in determining screening participation. These results have important implications for public health strategies on improving CRC screening participation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia.
| | - Sonia El-Zaemey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
El-Zaemey S, Carey RN, Darcey E, Reid A, Rushton L, McElvenny DM, Fritschi L. Does the Size of a Company Make a Difference in the Prevalence of Exposure to Asthmagens and in the Use of Respiratory Protective Equipment? Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:765-769. [PMID: 29746614 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction About half of all workers in high-income countries work in small companies. However, regulatory bodies and researchers predominantly work with large companies because they are more convenient to study and easier to reach. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of exposure to asthmagens and the use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) by company size. Methods This analysis used data from the Australian Work Exposures Study-Asthma, a telephone survey which investigated exposure to 27 asthmagen groups. Results Among 4844 respondents, 18.8, 19.9, 31.9, and 29.4% of workers reported working in micro (<5 employees), small (5-19 employees), medium (20-200 employees), and large (>200 employees) companies, respectively. Compared to workers in large companies, workers in micro, small, or medium companies had higher prevalence of exposure to most asthmagens and lesser use of RPE. Conclusion Our results suggest that policy actions and regulatory measures should target micro/small companies in order to have the greatest effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia El-Zaemey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ellie Darcey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lesley Rushton
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London, United Kingdom
| | - Damien M McElvenny
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Research Avenue North, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited information on whether the prevalence of exposure to workplace carcinogens varies among shift workers and non-shift workers. METHODS This analysis used data from the Australian Work Exposures Study-Cancer, a telephone survey which examined exposure to carcinogens in the workplace. Workers were classified as shift workers if they indicated that their usual roster ever included work between the hours of midnight and 5 am. Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate the adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) and 95% confidence internals (CIs). RESULTS Among the 5425 workers, 6.88% reported being exposed to shift work. Overall, shift workers were more likely to be exposed to any carcinogen (aPR = 1.16; 95% 1.06-1.26) and to specific carcinogens such as asbestos (aPR = 1.93; 95% 1.33-2.83) than non-shift workers. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that there are differences in exposure to carcinogenic agents among shift and non-shift workers, and so there is a need for prevention programs in order to reduce these discrepancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia El-Zaemey
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Renee N. Carey
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Bentley Western Australia Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Carey RN, Fritschi L, Driscoll TR, Peters S, Glass DC, Benke G, Reid A. Interventions to Reduce Future Cancer Incidence from Diesel Engine Exhaust: What Might Work? Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2018; 12:13-20. [PMID: 30352840 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-18-0274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to diesel engine exhaust (DEE) contributes appreciably to the burden of occupational cancer. This study aims to estimate the potential impact of a range of interventions on the future burden of cancer from occupational exposure to DEE in Australia. The future excess fraction method, a novel method based on the lifetime risk approach, was used to model changes in the future burden of cancer among the Australian working age population exposed to DEE at work in 2012 under various intervention strategies. The interventions modeled were based on the widely accepted hierarchy of control model. At baseline, 600 (0.4%) future bladder and 4,450 (0.6%) future lung cancer cases over the lifetime of the cohort were estimated to be attributable to occupational exposure to DEE in those exposed in 2012. Up to 2,000 of these cases were estimated to be avoidable through the use of various interventions. Exhaust hoses (engineering controls) were estimated to be particularly effective. This study provides an indication of which intervention strategies may be most useful in reducing the future burden of cancer associated with occupational DEE exposure. These results show the potential effect of changing current exposure, rather than focusing on past exposures, and thus provide relevant information for policy planning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia.
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Timothy R Driscoll
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan Peters
- School of Global and Population Health, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia.,Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Deborah C Glass
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Geza Benke
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
El-Zaemey S, Carey RN, Darcey E, Reid A, Glass DC, Driscoll TR, Crewe J, Abramson MJ, Si S, Benke G, Fritschi L. The prevalence of exposure to high molecular weight asthmagens derived from plants among workers in Australia. Am J Ind Med 2018; 61:824-830. [PMID: 30168149 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited information is available on exposure to high molecular weight (HMW) asthmagens derived from plants and on the main occupations and tasks that result in such exposure among workers. METHODS Data were collected as part of the Australian Work Exposures Study-Asthma. We estimated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) using modified Poisson regression models to determine which factors were associated with exposure. RESULTS A 12.8% of 4878 workers were exposed to HMW asthmagens derived from plants. The highest prevalence of exposure was found among farmers/animal workers, education workers, and food processing workers. The main circumstances of exposure were through handling flour, freesias, or through raising livestock. Exposure was more common among female workers (aPR = 1.26, 1.10-1.43) than males, while it was lower among workers born overseas (aPR = 0.70, 0.57-0.86) than those born in Australia. CONCLUSION Prevention of exposure to HMW asthmagens derived from plants requires a broad strategy targeting different tasks and occupations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia El-Zaemey
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Renee N. Carey
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Ellie Darcey
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Deborah C. Glass
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Tim R. Driscoll
- School of Public Health; University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Julie Crewe
- Lions Eye Institute; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
| | - Michael J. Abramson
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Si Si
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Geza Benke
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Bentley Western Australia Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Daly A, Carey RN, Darcey E, Chih H, LaMontagne AD, Milner A, Reid A. Workplace psychosocial stressors experienced by migrant workers in Australia: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203998. [PMID: 30235255 PMCID: PMC6147467 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore work-related psychosocial stressors among people of Chinese, Vietnamese and Arabic-speaking backgrounds currently working in Australia. METHODS In 2015, a telephone survey of 585 Vietnamese, Chinese and Arabic-speaking workers asked about workplace bullying, ethnic discrimination, job complexity, degree of control, security and fairness of payment along with demographic and employment information. Estimates of job-related psychosocial stressors were derived and regression analyses used to identify significant associations. RESULTS At least one workplace stressor was reported by 83% of the workers in the study. Education was significantly associated with experiencing any psychosocial stressor and also with the total number of stressors. Workers aged 45 years and older were more likely to be bullied or experience racial discrimination compared with younger workers of any ethnicity. There was a greater likelihood of reporting low control over a job when the interview was conducted in a language other than English and the workers were either Chinese or Arabic. Workers on a fixed-term contract, independent of ethnicity were more likely to report a job with low security. Overall psychosocial job quality decreased with education and was associated with occupation type which interacted with ethnicity and gender. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that job-related psychosocial stressors are widespread but not uniform across ethnic groups. Further research into what drives differences in work experience for migrant groups would provide information to guide both employers and migrants in ways to reduce workplace psychosocial stressors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Daly
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Renee N. Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ellie Darcey
- Centre for Genetic Origins of Health and Disease, Royal Perth Hospital Medical Research Foundation, Perth, Australia
| | - HuiJun Chih
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Anthony D. LaMontagne
- Centre for Population Health Research, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Health Equity, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allison Milner
- Centre for Health Equity, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Carey RN, Fritschi L, Driscoll TR, Abramson MJ, Glass DC, Darcey E, Si S, Benke G, Reid A, El-Zaemey S. Latex glove use among healthcare workers in Australia. Am J Infect Control 2018; 46:1014-1018. [PMID: 29678453 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2018.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to natural rubber latex, primarily through the use of gloves, is a well-recognized cause of occupational asthma. We investigated latex glove use among Australian workers and estimated the resultant burden of occupational asthma among healthcare workers (HCWs). METHODS Data were collected in 2014 as part of the Australian Work Exposures Study-Asthma, a telephone survey investigating the prevalence of current occupational exposure to asthmagens, including latex. We estimated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) to determine variables associated with the use of latex gloves among HCWs and calculated the asthma-related disability-adjusted life years due to latex exposure among HCWs. RESULTS Latex gloves were used by 22% of respondents. Almost two-thirds (63%) of HCWs reported wearing latex gloves, with 26% using powdered latex gloves. The use of latex gloves was more common among those employed in micro companies (less than 5 employees) than large companies (200+ employees) (aPR = 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.1-2.0). Latex exposure in HCWs was estimated to contribute 3% of the total asthma-related burden. DISCUSSION Latex gloves are widely used by Australian workers and by HCWs in particular. CONCLUSIONS This is the first estimate of the burden of asthma attributable to occupational exposure to latex among HCWs. These results can be used to guide decisions regarding the control of occupational exposure to latex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Timothy R Driscoll
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael J Abramson
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah C Glass
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ellie Darcey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Si Si
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Geza Benke
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sonia El-Zaemey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Darcey E, Carey RN, Reid A, Driscoll T, Glass DC, Benke GP, Peters S, Fritschi L. Prevalence of exposure to occupational carcinogens among farmers. Rural Remote Health 2018; 18:4348. [PMID: 30145908 DOI: 10.22605/rrh4348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Farmers experience a range of carcinogenic exposures, including some pesticides, fuels, engine exhausts, metals, some organic solvents, silica, wood dusts and solar radiation. However many studies investigating the risk of cancer in farmers focus on pesticide exposure alone. The aim of this study was to determine which carcinogens Australian farmers are exposed to, the prevalence and circumstances of those exposures, and the use of protective equipment. METHODS The study used data from the Australian Work Exposures Study (AWES) a cross-sectional study conducted in 2012 that investigated the prevalence of carcinogen exposure among Australian workers. This was supplemented with data from AWES-Western Australia (WA), conducted in 2013, which followed the same methodology but in Western Australian workers only. A total of 5498 Australian workers were interviewed about the tasks they carry out in their workplace. The 166 participants who worked in farming (126 men and 40 women, with an age range of 18-65 years) are the focus of this article. RESULTS On average, farmers had been exposed to five different carcinogens. Highest numbers of exposures occurred among men and those working on mixed crop and livestock farms. Solar radiation, diesel engine exhaust and certain solvents were the most prevalent exposures, each with over 85% of farmers exposed. The main tasks leading to exposure were working outdoors, using and repairing farming equipment and burning waste. Sun protection and closed cabs on machinery were the most frequently used forms of protection. CONCLUSIONS Farmers are a high risk group in relation to carcinogen exposure. The variation in tasks that they undertake results in exposure to a wide variety of different carcinogens that require similarly varied control measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Darcey
- Centre for Genetic Origins of Health and Disease, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, and Royal Perth Hospital Medical Research Foundation, Perth, Australia. School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Tim Driscoll
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Deborah C Glass
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, The Alfred Centre, Melbourne, Vic 3004, Australia
| | - Geza P Benke
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, The Alfred Centre, Melbourne, Vic 3004, Australia
| | - Susan Peters
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Corner Clifton Street and Stirling Highway, Nedlands WA 6009. Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Walasa WM, Carey RN, Si S, Fritschi L, Heyworth JS, Fernandez RC, Boyle T. Association between shiftwork and the risk of colorectal cancer in females: a population-based case-control study. Occup Environ Med 2018; 75:344-350. [PMID: 29438001 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2017-104657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Research indicates that shiftwork may be associated with increased risks of adverse health outcomes, including some cancers. However, the evidence of an association between shiftwork and colorectal cancer risk is limited and inconclusive. Further, while several possible pathways through which shiftwork might result in cancer have been proposed, few studies have taken these factors into account. We investigated the association between two types of shiftwork (graveyard shiftwork and early-morning shiftwork) and six mechanistic shiftwork variables (including light at night and phase shift) and the risk of colorectal cancer among females in an Australian population-based case-control study. Graveyard shiftwork was the primary exposure of interest. METHODS Participants (350 cases and 410 controls) completed a lifetime occupational history, and exposure to each of the eight shiftwork variables was assigned to participants through a job exposure matrix. We used logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between different shiftwork variables and the risk of colorectal cancer, adjusting for potential demographic, lifestyle and medical confounders. RESULTS Working in an occupation involving long-term exposure (>7.5 years) to graveyard shiftwork was not associated with colorectal cancer risk (adjusted OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.58). Similarly, no increased risks of colorectal cancer were seen for any of the other seven shiftwork variables examined. CONCLUSIONS No evidence of an increased risk of colorectal cancer among females who had worked in occupations involving shiftwork was observed in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wa Mwenga Walasa
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Si Si
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jane S Heyworth
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Renae C Fernandez
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Terry Boyle
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
El-Zaemey S, Carey RN, Darcey E, Reid A, Glass DC, Benke GP, Driscoll TR, Peters S, Si S, Abramson MJ, Fritschi L. Prevalence of occupational exposure to asthmagens derived from animals, fish and/or shellfish among Australian workers. Occup Environ Med 2017; 75:310-316. [PMID: 29175990 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2017-104459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Several animal, fish and/or shellfish derived substances encountered in the workplace can initiate or exacerbate asthma. The aims of this study were: to produce a population-based estimate of the current prevalence of occupational exposure to animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens, to identify the main circumstances of exposures and to identify occupations with the highest proportions of exposed respondents. METHODS We used data from the Australian Work Exposure Study-Asthma, a national telephone survey that investigated the current prevalence of occupational exposure to asthmagens among Australian workers. A web-based tool was used to collect job task information and assign exposure to asthmagens, including animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens. Prevalence ratios to determine risk factors for exposure were estimated using modified Poisson regression. RESULTS Of the 4878 respondents, 12.4% were exposed to asthmagens derived from animals, fish and/or shellfish. Exposure to these asthmagens was significantly higher in workers residing in regional and remote areas, compared with major cities. The main circumstance of exposure to animal derived asthmagens was through cleaning up rat/mice infestations, while the main circumstance of exposure to fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens was through preparing and cooking salmon. Occupational groups with the highest proportion of exposure to animal or fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens were farmers/animal workers and food workers, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study investigating occupational exposure to animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens in a nationwide working population. The results of this study can be used to inform the direction of occupational interventions and policies to reduce work-related asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia El-Zaemey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ellie Darcey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Deborah Catherine Glass
- School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Geza P Benke
- School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tim R Driscoll
- Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan Peters
- School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Si Si
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michael J Abramson
- School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Australia mined asbestos for more than 100 years and manufactured and imported asbestos products. There is a legacy of in situ asbestos throughout the built environment. METHODS The aim of this study was to identify the possible sources of current and future asbestos exposure from the built environment. Telephone interviews with environmental health officers, asbestos removalists, and asbestos assessors in Australia sought information about common asbestos scenarios encountered. RESULTS There is a considerable amount of asbestos remaining in situ in the Australian built environment. Potential current and future sources of asbestos exposure to the public are from asbestos-containing roofs and fences, unsafe asbestos removal practices, do-it-yourself home renovations and illegal dumping. CONCLUSION This research has highlighted a need for consistent approaches in the regulation and enforcement of safe practices for the management and removal of asbestos to ensure that in situ asbestos in the built environment is managed appropriately.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Corie Gray
- a School of Public Health , Curtin University , Bentley , Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- a School of Public Health , Curtin University , Bentley , Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- a School of Public Health , Curtin University , Bentley , Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Jomichen J, El-Zaemey S, Heyworth JS, Carey RN, Darcey E, Reid A, Glass DC, Driscoll T, Peters S, Abramson M, Fritschi L. Australian work exposures studies: occupational exposure to pesticides. Occup Environ Med 2016; 74:46-51. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2016-103723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
|
24
|
Whiteman DC, Webb PM, Green AC, Neale RE, Fritschi L, Bain CJ, Parkin DM, Wilson LF, Olsen CM, Nagle CM, Pandeya N, Jordan SJ, Antonsson A, Kendall BJ, Hughes MCB, Ibiebele TI, Miura K, Peters S, Carey RN. Cancers in Australia in 2010 attributable to modifiable factors: introduction and overview. Aust N Z J Public Health 2016; 39:403-7. [PMID: 26437722 PMCID: PMC4606764 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the approach underpinning a national project to estimate the numbers and proportions of cancers occurring in Australia in 2010 that are attributable to modifiable causal factors. METHODS We estimated the population attributable fraction (PAF) (or prevented fraction) of cancers associated with exposure to causal (or preventive) factors using standard formulae. Where possible, we also estimated the potential impact on cancer incidence resulting from changes in prevalence of exposure. Analyses were restricted to factors declared causal by international agencies: tobacco smoke; alcohol; solar radiation; infectious agents; obesity; insufficient physical activity; insufficient intakes of fruits, vegetables and fibre; red and processed meat; menopausal hormone therapy (MHT); oral contraceptive pill (OCP); and insufficient breast feeding. Separately, we estimated numbers of cancers prevented by: aspirin; sunscreen; MHT; and OCP use. We discuss assumptions pertaining to latent periods between exposure and cancer onset, choices of prevalence data and risk estimates, and approaches to sensitivity analyses. RESULTS Numbers and population attributable fractions of cancer are presented in accompanying papers. CONCLUSIONS This is the first systematic assessment of population attributable fractions of cancer in Australia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David C Whiteman
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Penelope M Webb
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Adele C Green
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland.,Cancer Research UK, Manchester Institute and Institute of Inflammation and Repair, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel E Neale
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Western Australia
| | - Christopher J Bain
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Australian Capital Territory
| | - D Max Parkin
- Centre for Cancer Prevention, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Catherine M Olsen
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Christina M Nagle
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Nirmala Pandeya
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Susan J Jordan
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | | | - Bradley J Kendall
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Medicine, The University of Queensland
| | | | | | - Kyoko Miura
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland
| | - Susan Peters
- Occupational Respiratory Epidemiology, School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Western Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Whiteman DC, Webb PM, Green AC, Neale RE, Fritschi L, Bain CJ, Parkin DM, Wilson LF, Olsen CM, Nagle CM, Pandeya N, Jordan SJ, Antonsson A, Kendall BJ, Hughes MCB, Ibiebele TI, Miura K, Peters S, Carey RN. Cancers in Australia in 2010 attributable to modifiable factors: summary and conclusions. Aust N Z J Public Health 2016; 39:477-84. [PMID: 26437735 PMCID: PMC4606779 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the numbers and proportions of cancers occurring in Australia in 2010 attributable to modifiable causal factors. METHODS We estimated the population attributable fraction (PAF) of cancers associated with exposure to 13 causal factors using standard formulae incorporating exposure prevalence and relative risk data. We also calculated the potential impact of changing exposure to some factors. RESULTS A total of 32% of all cancers diagnosed in Australia in 2010 (excluding keratinocyte cancers) were attributable to the 13 factors assessed (men 33%; women 31%). Leading factors were tobacco smoke (PAF all cancers: 13.4%), solar radiation (6.2%), inadequate diet (6.1%) and overweight/obesity (3.4%). Factors conferring highest PAFs differed by sex: highest PAFs for men were tobacco smoke (15.8%), solar radiation (7.1%) and alcohol (3.0%); while highest PAFs for women were tobacco smoke (10.1%), solar radiation (5.0%) and overweight/obesity (4.5%). Sites with the highest counts of potentially preventable cancers were lung (8,569), colorectal (7,404), melanoma of the skin (7,220) and breast (3,233). CONCLUSIONS At least one in three cancers in Australia is attributable to exposure to known modifiable factors. IMPLICATIONS Up to 37,000 cancers could be prevented in Australia each year if the population avoided exposure to 13 common factors known or strongly suspected to cause cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David C Whiteman
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Penelope M Webb
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Adele C Green
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland.,Cancer Research UK, Manchester Institute and Institute of Inflammation and Repair, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel E Neale
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Western Australia
| | - Christopher J Bain
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Australian Capital Territory
| | - D Max Parkin
- Centre for Cancer Prevention, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Catherine M Olsen
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Christina M Nagle
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Nirmala Pandeya
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | - Susan J Jordan
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland
| | | | - Bradley J Kendall
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland.,School of Medicine, The University of Queensland
| | | | | | - Kyoko Miura
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland
| | - Susan Peters
- Occupational Respiratory Epidemiology, School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Western Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Fritschi L, Chan J, Hutchings SJ, Driscoll TR, Wong AYW, Carey RN. The future excess fraction model for calculating burden of disease. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:386. [PMID: 27169472 PMCID: PMC4865002 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimates of the burden of disease caused by a particular agent are used to assist in making policy and prioritizing actions. Most estimations have employed the attributable fraction approach, which estimates the proportion of disease cases or deaths in a specific year which are attributable to past exposure to a particular agent. While this approach has proven extremely useful in quantifying health effects, it requires historical data on exposures which are not always available. METHODS We present an alternative method, the future excess fraction method, which is based on the lifetime risk approach, and which requires current rather than historical exposure data. This method estimates the future number of exposure-related disease cases or deaths occurring in the subgroup of the population who were exposed to the particular agent in a specific year. We explain this method and use publically-available data on current asbestos exposure and mesothelioma incidence to demonstrate the use of the method. CONCLUSIONS Our approach to modelling burden of disease is useful when there are no historical measures of exposure and where future disease rates can be projected on person years at risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
| | - Jayzii Chan
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Sally J Hutchings
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tim R Driscoll
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Adrian Y W Wong
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fritschi L, Crewe J, Darcey E, Reid A, Glass DC, Benke GP, Driscoll T, Peters S, Si S, Abramson MJ, Carey RN. The estimated prevalence of exposure to asthmagens in the Australian workforce, 2014. BMC Pulm Med 2016; 16:48. [PMID: 27061283 PMCID: PMC4826519 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-016-0212-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is very little information available on a national level as to the number of people exposed to specific asthmagens in workplaces. Methods We conducted a national telephone survey in Australia to investigate the prevalence of current occupational exposure to 277 asthmagens, assembled into 27 groups. Demographic and current job information were obtained. A web-based tool, OccIDEAS, was used to collect job task information and assign exposure to each asthmagen group. Results In the Australian Workplace Exposure Study – Asthma (AWES- Asthma) we interviewed 4878 participants (2441 male and 2437 female). Exposure to at least one asthmagen was more common among men (47 %) than women (40 %). Extrapolated to the Australian population, approximately 2.8 million men and 1.7 million women were estimated to be exposed. Among men, the most common exposures were bioaerosols (29 %) and metals (27 %), whilst the most common exposures among women were latex (25 %) and industrial cleaning and sterilising agents (20 %). Conclusions This study provides information about the prevalence of exposure to asthmagens in Australian workplaces which will be useful in setting priorities for control and prevention of occupational asthma. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12890-016-0212-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia.
| | - Julie Crewe
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia
| | - Ellie Darcey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia
| | - Deborah C Glass
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Geza P Benke
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tim Driscoll
- Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan Peters
- School of Population Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Si Si
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia
| | - Michael J Abramson
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Renee N Carey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Si S, Carey RN, Reid A, Driscoll T, Glass DC, Peters S, Benke G, Darcey E, Fritschi L. The Australian Work Exposures Study: Prevalence of Occupational Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica. ANNHYG 2016; 60:631-7. [DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mew007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
29
|
Driscoll TR, Carey RN, Peters S, Glass DC, Benke G, Reid A, Fritschi L. The Australian Work Exposures Study: Prevalence of Occupational Exposure to Formaldehyde. Ann Occup Hyg 2015; 60:132-8. [PMID: 26342091 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mev058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aims of this study were to produce a population-based estimate of the prevalence of work-related exposure to formaldehyde, to identify the main circumstances of exposure and to describe the use of workplace control measures designed to decrease those exposures. METHODS The analysis used data from the Australian Workplace Exposures Study, a nationwide telephone survey, which investigated the current prevalence and exposure circumstances of work-related exposure to 38 known or suspected carcinogens, including formaldehyde, among Australian workers aged 18-65 years. Using the web-based tool OccIDEAS, semi-quantitative information was collected about exposures in the current job held by the respondent. Questions were addressed primarily at tasks undertaken rather than about self-reported exposures. RESULTS Of the 4993 included respondents, 124 (2.5%) were identified as probably being exposed to formaldehyde in the course of their work [extrapolated to 2.6% of the Australian working population-265 000 (95% confidence interval 221 000-316 000) workers]. Most (87.1%) were male. About half worked in technical and trades occupations. In terms of industry, about half worked in the construction industry. The main circumstances of exposure were working with particle board or plywood typically through carpentry work, building maintenance, or sanding prior to painting; with the more common of other exposures circumstances being firefighters involved in fighting fires, fire overhaul, and clean-up or back-burning; and health workers using formaldehyde when sterilizing equipment or in a pathology laboratory setting. The use of control measures was inconsistent. CONCLUSION Workers are exposed to formaldehyde in many different occupational circumstances. Information on the exposure circumstances can be used to support decisions on appropriate priorities for intervention and control of occupational exposure to formaldehyde, and estimates of burden of cancer arising from occupational exposure to formaldehyde.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Driscoll
- 1.School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia;
| | - Renee N Carey
- 2. School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Susan Peters
- 3.Occupational Respiratory Epidemiology, School of Population Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6907, Australia
| | - Deborah C Glass
- 4.Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Geza Benke
- 4.Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- 2. School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- 2. School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Boyle T, Carey RN, Glass DC, Peters S, Fritschi L, Reid A. Prevalence of occupational exposure to carcinogens among workers of Arabic, Chinese and Vietnamese ancestry in Australia. Am J Ind Med 2015; 58:923-32. [PMID: 26094761 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although job-related diseases result in more deaths per year than job-related injuries, most research concerning ethnic minority workers has concerned accidents and injuries rather than disease-causing exposures such as carcinogens. METHODS We conducted a telephone-based cross-sectional survey to estimate the prevalence of occupational exposure to carcinogens among a sample of ethnic minority workers in Australia, and compared their exposure prevalence to that of a sample of the general Australian-born working population ('Australian workers'). RESULTS One-third of the ethnic minority workers were exposed to at least one carcinogen at work. The likelihood of exposure to carcinogens was not significantly different from that of Australian workers, although the likelihood of exposure to individual carcinogens varied by ethnicity. CONCLUSION Knowing the prevalence of exposure to carcinogens in the workplace in different ethnic groups will allow better targeted and informed occupational health and safety measures to be implemented where necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terry Boyle
- Cancer Control Research; British Columbia Cancer Agency; Vancouver British Columbia Canada
- School of Population and Public Health; The University of British Columbia; Vancouver British Columbia Canada
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research; The University of Western Australia; Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Renee N. Carey
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Deborah C. Glass
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Susan Peters
- School of Population Health; The University of Western Australia; Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- School of Public Health; Curtin University; Perth Western Australia Australia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Driscoll TR, Carey RN, Peters S, Glass DC, Benke G, Reid A, Fritschi L. The Australian Work Exposures Study: Occupational Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons. Ann Occup Hyg 2015; 60:124-31. [PMID: 26324826 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mev057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aims of this study were to produce a population-based estimate of the prevalence of work-related exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), to identify the main circumstances of exposure and to describe the use of workplace control measures designed to decrease those exposures. METHODS The analysis used data from the Australian Workplace Exposures Study, a nationwide telephone survey which investigated the current prevalence and exposure circumstances of work-related exposure to 38 known or suspected carcinogens, including PAHs, among Australian workers aged 18-65 years. Using the web-based tool OccIDEAS, semi-quantitative information was collected about exposures in the current job held by the respondent. Questions were addressed primarily at tasks undertaken rather than about self-reported exposures. RESULTS Of the 4,993 included respondents, 297 (5.9%) were identified as probably being exposed to PAHs in their current job [extrapolated to 6.7% of the Australian working population-677 000 (95% confidence interval 605 000-757 000) workers]. Most (81%) were male; about one-third were farmers and about one-quarter worked in technical and trades occupations. In the agriculture industry about half the workers were probably exposed to PAHs. The main exposure circumstances were exposure to smoke through burning, fighting fires or through maintaining mowers or other equipment; cleaning up ash after a fire; health workers exposed to diathermy smoke; cooking; and welding surfaces with a coating. Where information on control measures was available, their use was inconsistent. CONCLUSION Workers are exposed to PAHs in many different occupational circumstances. Information on the exposure circumstances can be used to support decisions on appropriate priorities for intervention and control of occupational exposure to PAHs, and estimates of burden of cancer arising from occupational exposure to PAHs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Driscoll
- 1.School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia;
| | - Renee N Carey
- 2.School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Susan Peters
- 3.Occupational Respiratory Epidemiology, School of Population Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6907, Australia
| | - Deborah C Glass
- 4.Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Geza Benke
- 4.Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- 2.School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- 2.School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Driscoll TR, Carey RN, Peters S, Glass DC, Benke G, Reid A, Fritschi L. The Australian Work Exposures Study: Occupational Exposure to Lead and Lead Compounds. Ann Occup Hyg 2015; 60:113-23. [PMID: 26324825 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mev056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aims of this study were to produce a population-based estimate of the prevalence of work-related exposure to lead and its compounds, to identify the main circumstances of exposures, and to collect information on the use of workplace control measures designed to decrease those exposures. METHODS Data came from the Australian Workplace Exposures Study, a nationwide telephone survey which investigated the current prevalence and circumstances of work-related exposure to 38 known or suspected carcinogens, including lead, among Australian workers aged 18-65 years. Using the web-based tool, OccIDEAS, semi-quantitative information was collected about exposures in the current job held by the respondent. Questions were addressed primarily at tasks undertaken rather than about self-reported exposures. RESULTS A total of 307 (6.1%) of the 4993 included respondents were identified as probably being exposed to lead in the course of their work. Of these, almost all (96%) were male; about half worked in trades and technician-related occupations, and about half worked in the construction industry. The main tasks associated with probable exposures were, in decreasing order: soldering; sanding and burning off paint while painting old houses, ships, or bridges; plumbing work; cleaning up or sifting through the remains of a fire; radiator-repair work; machining metals or alloys containing lead; mining; welding leaded steel; and working at or using indoor firing ranges. Where information on control measures was available, inconsistent use was reported. Applied to the Australian working population, approximately 6.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.6-7.0] of all workers (i.e. 631000, 95% CI 566000-704000 workers) were estimated to have probable occupational exposure to lead. CONCLUSIONS Lead remains an important exposure in many different occupational circumstances in Australia and probably other developed countries. This information can be used to support decisions on priorities for intervention and control of occupational exposure to lead and estimates of burden of cancer arising from occupational exposure to lead.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Driscoll
- 1.School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia;
| | - Renee N Carey
- 2.School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Susan Peters
- 3.Occupational Respiratory Epidemiology, School of Population Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6907, Australia
| | - Deborah C Glass
- 4.Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Geza Benke
- 4.Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Alison Reid
- 2.School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- 2.School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Carey RN, Glass DC, Peters S, Reid A, Benke G, Driscoll TR, Fritschi L. Occupational exposure to solar radiation in Australia: who is exposed and what protection do they use? Aust N Z J Public Health 2015; 38:54-9. [PMID: 24494947 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is widely recognised as a leading cause of skin cancer, with outdoor workers being particularly at risk. Little is known on a national level about how many workers are exposed to solar radiation, the circumstances in which they are exposed, or their use of protective measures. METHODS The Australian Work Exposures Study (AWES) was a cross-sectional telephone survey of 5,023 Australian workers aged 18 to 65. A subset of 1,113 respondents who indicated they worked outdoors was asked about their exposure to solar radiation in terms of the amount of time they spent working outdoors, their working location and their use of sun protective measures. RESULTS A total of 1,100 respondents (22% overall) were assessed as being exposed to solar radiation at work. Exposure was more likely among males and those residing in lower socioeconomic and regional areas. Sun protection was used by 95% of the respondents, although the level of protection varied among workers, with only 8.7% classified as fully protected. CONCLUSIONS This study provides valuable information regarding solar exposure that has not previously been available. IMPLICATIONS The results of this study will inform strategies for risk reduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- Western Australian Institute for Medical Research, University of Western Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Boyle T, Carey RN, Peters S, Glass DC, Fritschi L, Reid A. Demographic and Occupational Differences Between Ethnic Minority Workers Who Did and Did Not Complete the Telephone Survey in English. ANNHYG 2015; 59:862-71. [DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mev021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
35
|
Fernandez RC, Peters S, Carey RN, Davies MJ, Fritschi L. Assessment of exposure to shiftwork mechanisms in the general population: the development of a new job-exposure matrix. Occup Environ Med 2014; 71:723-9. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2014-102101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
|
36
|
Carey RN, Driscoll TR, Peters S, Glass DC, Reid A, Benke G, Fritschi L. Estimated prevalence of exposure to occupational carcinogens in Australia (2011–2012). Occup Environ Med 2013; 71:55-62. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2013-101651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
37
|
Carey RN, Donaghue N, Broderick P. Peer Culture and Body Image Concern Among Australian Adolescent Girls: A Hierarchical Linear Modelling Analysis. Sex Roles 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s11199-013-0305-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
38
|
Carey RN, Reid A, Driscoll TR, Glass DC, Benke G, Fritschi L. An advance letter did not increase the response rates in a telephone survey: a randomized trial. J Clin Epidemiol 2013; 66:1417-21. [PMID: 23735264 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2013.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2012] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the impact of an advance letter on response and cooperation rates in a nationwide telephone survey, given previous inconsistent results. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING Within the context of a larger telephone survey, 1,000 Australian households were randomly selected to take part in this trial. Half were randomly allocated to receive an advance letter, whereas the remainder did not receive any advance communication. Response and cooperation rates were compared between the two groups. RESULTS A total of 244 interviews were completed, 134 of which were with households that had been sent an advance letter. Intention-to-treat analysis revealed no significant difference in response between those who had received a letter and those who had not (26.8% vs. 22.0%, respectively). In addition, there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of either cooperation (78.4% vs. 79.7%) or response rate (56.3% vs. 57.9%), and no clear differences emerged in terms of the demographic characteristics of the two groups. CONCLUSION An advance letter was not seen to be effective in increasing response or cooperation rates in a nationwide telephone survey. Researchers should consider alternative methods of increasing participation in telephone surveys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee N Carey
- Western Australian Institute for Medical Research, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, B Block, Hospital Avenue, Nedlands, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Carey RN, Donaghue N, Broderick P. ‘What you look like is such a big factor’: Girls’ own reflections about the appearance culture in an all-girls’ school. Feminism & Psychology 2010. [DOI: 10.1177/0959353510369893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
High school is a key venue for the development and expression of body image concerns in adolescent girls. Researchers have begun to investigate the role of school-based ‘appearance cultures’ in magnifying the body image concerns of students. To date, however, no research has examined girls’ experience as participants within these cultures, and thus the opportunity to learn how girls account for the development and maintenance of these cultures has been missed. In interviews with nine girls attending an all-girls’ school, the existence of a strong ‘appearance culture’ in the school was identified as a major influence on the body image concerns of students. Girls talked about the ways in which appearance-focused conversations, dieting, and weight monitoring occurred as part of the everyday interaction with friends and peers at school. They also identified many ways in which their school attempted to address body image concerns, although these attempts were often portrayed as ineffective, if not counter-productive. These findings suggest that attempts to address the body image concerns of students will need to be sensitive to the lived reality of appearance cultures within schools.
Collapse
|
40
|
Cembrowski GS, Carey RN. Adding value to proficiency testing programs. Clin Chem 2000; 46:7-8. [PMID: 10620565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
|
41
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse reactions to foods are encountered much less frequently in adults than in the children. Adult onset hypersensitivity to grapes has not been previously reported. OBJECTIVE Evaluation of a case of anaphylaxis that occurred as a result of the consumption of white grapes (Vitis vinifera). METHODS AND RESULTS A 28-year-old woman experienced generalized urticaria, facial/oropharyngeal angioedema, and dizziness after eating a bunch of white grapes. She was treated in an emergency room for anaphylaxis. Previously, she had experienced two similar episodes after eating white grapes. The grape prick skin tests were strongly positive forming a pseudopod type reaction. The total serum IgE was 1918 ng/mL. The grape-specific serum IgE was weakly positive by the modified RAST and negative in the Pharmacia-Upjohn Cap System. CONCLUSION Hypersensitivity to a commonly consumed fruit such as grapes can develop late in life causing a near-fatal anaphylaxis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S K Vaswani
- Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group & Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21244, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Green GA, Carey RN, Westgard JO, Carten T, Shablesky L, Achord D, Page E, Le AV. Quality control for qualitative assays: quantitative QC procedure designed to assure analytical quality required for an ELISA of hepatitis B surface antigen. Clin Chem 1997; 43:1618-21. [PMID: 9299942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
An assay for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) should reliably detect 0.2 microgram/L, the lowest reported concentration in an asymptomatic blood donor. The difference between this concentration and the assay cutoff defines the analytical quality requirement in a total error format. The design of a statistical QC procedure is critically dependent on the precision of the assay. The precision of a developmental ELISA of HBsAg under study ranged from 17.5% to 9.6% for controls containing 0.07 to 1.50 micrograms/L, respectively. Use of one positive control with the 1(3s), QC rule provided an 85% chance of detecting a critical loss of assay sensitivity; use of two positive controls increased the chance of detecting critical loss of assay sensitivity to nearly 100%. These rules are based on the precision of this developmental assay, and must be developed individually for other assays. The development of the proposed QC procedures illustrates how quantitative QC can be provided for qualitative assays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G A Green
- Ortho Diagnostic Systems, Raritan, NJ 08869, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Cembrowski GS, Anderson PG, Crampton CA, Coupland R, Carey RN. Pump up your PT IQ. MLO Med Lab Obs 1996; 28:46-51. [PMID: 10172547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
|
44
|
Cembrowski GS, Engebretson MJ, Hackney JR, Carey RN. A systems approach to assure optimal proficiency testing in the hematology laboratory. Clin Lab Med 1993; 13:973-85. [PMID: 8313692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Although CLIA 88 has probably caused the laboratorian to place inordinate emphasis on proficiency testing, we believe that it will ultimately improve clinical laboratory practice. Due to the increased numbers of challenges within a mailing, the laboratorian has a greater ability to gauge magnitudes and types of any existing error. These magnitudes can be compared with previously established limits to determine the need for corrective action. Laboratories are encouraged to devise a system to guarantee accurate preanalytic, analytic, and postanalytic PT processing and reporting. Due to the relatively low imprecisions of today's hematology analyzers compared with the HCFA limits, most hematology laboratories should focus their attention on measures of and factors affecting long-term control and calibration. More attention should be paid to moving averages of indices and the analytic performance in regional or manufacturer control pools.
Collapse
|
45
|
Carey RN, Frye RM, Cook JD, Koch TR, Harris EK. Between-Lot/Between-Instrument Variations of the Abbott IMx Method for Prostate-Specific Antigen. Clin Chem 1992. [DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/38.11.2341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
46
|
Carey RN, Frye RM, Cook JD, Koch TR, Harris EK. Between-lot/between-instrument variations of the Abbott IMx method for prostate-specific antigen. Clin Chem 1992; 38:2341-3. [PMID: 1385021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
47
|
Carey RN, Harris EK. Proposed change to "Information for Authors": Precision. Clin Chem 1987; 33:2323. [PMID: 3690870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
|
48
|
Carey RN, Harris EK. Proposed change to "Information for Authors": Precision. Clin Chem 1987. [DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/33.12.2323a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
|
49
|
Carey RN, Blotzer JW, Wolfe ID, Glusman SM, Arnett FC. Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis and Sjögren's syndrome. J Rheumatol 1985; 12:1193-5. [PMID: 4093930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
A 66-year-old man with an 18-year history of cutaneous multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MRH) developed a chronic destructive symmetrical arthritis and xerostomia. Biopsies of synovium and minor salivary glands established a diagnosis of MRH polyarthritis and lymphocytic infiltrative Sjögren's syndrome, respectively. Anti-Ro(SSA) antibody was present. Hypothyroidism was also identified. This report of Sjögren's syndrome in MRH may enlarge the spectrum of autoimmune diseases associated with MRH.
Collapse
|
50
|
Davis TE, Kahan L, Tormey DC, Larson FC, Anderson SA, Crowley JJ, Carey RN. Clinical studies of a fast homoarginine-sensitive alkaline phosphatase in patients with cancer. Cancer Res 1981; 41:1110-3. [PMID: 6161696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The activity of an isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase (FHAP) was measured in serum samples obtained from 1692 individual subjects. The median FHAP concentration in patients with untreated or recurrent cancer (2.73 IU/liter) was two-fold higher than in hospitalized control patients with illnesses other than cancer (1.17 IU/liter) and three-fold higher than in healthy control subjects (0.93 IU/liter). Among patients with either breast or colorectal cancer who were clinically disease free following their initial therapy, the median FHAP concentration (1.54 IU/liter) was intermediate between the median FHAP concentration in patients with untreated or recurrent cancer and that of healthy control subjects. In order to illustrate the potential clinical application of FHAP as a diagnostic cancer marker, we have selected a serum FHAP concentration of 2.22 IU/liter as a reference value above which only 3% of healthy control subjects would have a "positive" test. Utilizing this reference value, 58% of the patients in the present study with untreated or recurrent cancer would have a positive FHAP test, whereas only 11%, of hospitalized patients with illnesses other than cancer would have a positive test. These data suggest that FHAP may be equivalent to the carcinoembryonic antigen as a diagnostic cancer marker.
Collapse
|