bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer mortality among workers in abattoirs and meatpacking plants: An update
Authors: Johnson Eric S. , Dalmas Dawn , Noss John , Matanoski Genevieve M.
Published: April 2007

Workers in abattoirs and meatpacking plants have potential for exposure to bovine leukemia virus (BLV) and bovine papilloma viruses (BPV), which are oncogenic in cattle. These workers also have increased exposure to human papilloma viruses (HPV) and certain chemical carcinogens. We investigated whether such a group showed increased risk of cancers. We report mortality results after an additional 9‐year follow‐up of a previously studied group of 5,522 workers in abattoirs and 4,589 workers in meatpacking plants. Excess risk of all cancers combined, cancers of the lung, buccal cavity and pharynx, esophagus, colon, bladder, kidney, and bone was observed. Since factors such as tobacco smoking, alcohol, and diet, which have known associations with some of these cancers, were not taken into account, the significance of these findings is not known, except for lung cancer, for which occupational factors are probably involved. Because some of these findings have been consistently reported before, studies that will control for confounding factors as well are now urgently needed.
Respiratory dysfunction in swine production facility workers: Dose‐response relationships of environmental exposures and pulmonary function
Authors: Donham Kelley J. , Reynolds Stephen J. , Whitten Paul , Merchant James A. , Burmeister Leon , Popendorf William J.
Published: April 2007

Human respiratory health hazards for people working in livestock confinement buildings have been recognized since 1974. However, before comprehensive control programs can be implemented, more knowledge is needed of specific hazardous substances present in the air of these buildings, and at what concentrations they are harmful. Therefore, a medical epidemiological and exposure‐response study was conducted on 207 swine producers using intensive housing systems (108 farms).

Dose‐response relationships between pulmonary function and exposures are reported here. Positive correlations were seen between change in pulmonary function over a work period and exposure to total dust, respirable dust, ammonia, respirable endotoxin, and the interactions of age‐of‐producer and dust exposure and years‐of‐working‐in‐the‐facility and dust exposure. Relationships between baseline pulmonary function and exposures were not strong and therefore, not pursued in this study.

The correlations between exposure and response were stronger after 6 years of exposure. Multiple regression models were used to identify total dust and ammonia as the two primary environmental predictors of pulmonary function decrements over a work period. The regression models were then used to determine exposure concentrations related to pulmonary function decrements suggestive of a health hazard. Total dust concentrations ⩾ 2.8 mg/m3were predictive of a work period decrement of ⩾ 10% in FEV1. Ammonia concentrations of ⩾ 7.5 ppm were predictive of a ⩾ 3% work period decrement in FEV1. These predictive concentrations were similar to a previous doseresponse study, which suggested 2.5 mg/m3of total dust and 7 ppm of NH3were associated with significant work period decrements. Therefore, dust ⩾ 2.8 mg/m3and ammonia ⩾ 7.5 ppm should be considered reasonable evidence for guidelines regarding hazardous exposure concentrations in this work environment.
Detecting cumulative trauma disorders in workers performing repetitive tasks
Authors: Young V. Leroy , Seaton Mary K. , Feely Christine A. , Arfken Cynthia , Edwards Dorothy F. , Baum Carolyn M. , Logan Samuel
Published: April 2007

On‐site testing of 157 poultry processors disclosed that 50% had three or more abnormal upper extremity findings out of a total of 22 possibles. The average worker had five to six abnormal findings. Impaired pinch strength, decreased vibration sensitivity in the fingertips, and reports of current numbness were the most prevalent. Of workers with signs, 25% reported no symptoms, whereas only 8% of workers reported symptoms but had no signs. The investigators concluded that this measurement method has utility for assessments of worker populations to determine prevalence of CTDs and, potentially, for preclinical detection of these disorders to permit early intervention, reduce medical costs, and minimize disability. The need for accurate measurement to enhance early detection and prevention is discussed.
Prevalence and Work‐Relatedness of Self‐Reported Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Among U.S. Workers: Analysis of the Occupational Health Supplement Data of 1988 National Health Interview Survey
Authors: Tanaka Shiro , Wild Deanna K. , Seligman Paul J. , Halperin William E. , Behrens Virginia J. , Putz‐Anderson Vern
Published: April 2007

To estimate the prevalence and work‐relatedness of self‐reported carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) among U.S. workers, data from the Occupational Health Supplement of 1988 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were analyzed. Among 127 million “recent workers” who worked during the 12 months prior to the survey, 1.47% (95% CI: 1.30; 1.65), or 1.87 million self‐reported CTS, and 0.53% (95% CI: 0.42; 0.65), or 675,000, stated that their prolonged hand discomfort was called CTS by a medical person. Occupations with the highest prevalence of self‐reported CTS were mail service, health care, construction, and assembly and fabrication. Industries with the highest prevalence were food products, repair services, transportation, and construction. The risk factor most strongly associated with medically called CTS was exposure to repetitive bending/ twisting of the hands/wrists at work (OR = 5.2), followed by race (OR = 4.2; whites higher than nonwhites), gender (OR = 2.2; females higher than males), use of vibrating hand tools (OR = 1.8), and age (OR = 1.03; risk increasing per year). This result is consistent with previous reports in that repeated bending/twisting of the hands and wrists during manual work is etiologically related to occupational carpal tunnel syndrome.
Workers' response to risk notification
Authors: Boal Winifred L. , Friedland Joan , Schulte Paul A.
Published: April 2007

Since 1988, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has notified workers who were subjects in occupational epidemiology studies of the study findings (“worker notification”). This paper describes seven notifications and the worker's reactions to them. The chemicals of interest in the studies were: carbon monoxide, o‐toluidine, bis‐chloromethyl ether, polychlorinated biphenyls, cadmium, acid mist, and dioxin. Materials describing the study results were sent to 15,958 subjects who were notified of their increased risk of arteriosclerotic heart disease, bladder cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, kidney dysfunction, laryngeal cancer, all cancers combined, or soft tissue sarcoma. Workers provided feedback via telephone calls, and for three notifications, by postcards containing workers' comments and ratings of the notification materials. The percentage of telephone calls received from notified workers ranged from 0.3% to 3.8%, and the percentage returning postcards ranged from 8.8% to 17.6%. The two largest categories of callers were those with questions about their disease risk (30%) or who reported on their health status (25%). Most of the comments on postcards (26%) were complimentary or expressed appreciation for receiving the letters; reports of ill health were second (20%). A majority (66%) rated the notification materials well done. Few of the callers (5%) requested information on legal issues. Most (85%) did not find the materials, which ranged in reading level from sixth to ninth grade, too hard to read, although 15% reported difficulty reading them. Although this response system was effective in producing some input from workers, its limitation is that respondents may not be representative of all notified workers. However, such information is useful because there are few data on the effects of notifications on workers. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Perimenstrual symptoms and working conditions among hospital workers in quebec
Authors: Tissot France , Messing Karen
Published: April 2007

Perimenstrual symptoms are among the most common disorders of women. Seven perimenstrual symptoms were related to working conditions among 539 hospital workers in a retrospective cohort questionnaire study, as part of a larger examination of health problems and working conditions of Quebec hospital workers. Only 8% of women had experienced no symptoms of discomfort associated with their last menstrual period. Lower abdominal pain, the most common symptom (58% prevalence), was associated with lifting weights (usually patients) in a logistic regression adjusted for parity and contraceptive use. Back pain, leg pain, swelling, and headache were associated with indicators of time pressure and fast work speed. Back pain during menstruation was experienced by 44% of workers. Studies of the prevalence and etiology of back pain, a common occupational health problem among hospital workers, may be confused if perimenstrual back pain is not taken into account. Similar reservations hold for the results on other perimenstrual symptoms that are also likely to occur outside the perimenstrual period, such as leg pain, irritability, and headache. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, inc.
Tumor markers in serum, polyamines and modified nucleosides in urine, and cytogenetic aberrations in lymphocytes of workers exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Buchet J. P. , Ferreira M. , Burrion J. B. , Leroy T. , Kirsch‐Volders M. , Van Hummelen P. , Jacques J. , Cupers L. , Delavignette J. P. , Lauwerys R.
Published: April 2007

Some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo(a)pyrene and benzo(a)anthracene are well‐established genotoxic agents. Long‐term exposure to PAHs may lead to proliferative cell disorders in humans, predominantly in the skin, lung, and bladder. The concentration of several tumor markers in serum, of polyamines and modified nucleosides in urine, and of cytogenetic endpoints in peripheral lymphocytes (sister‐chromatid exchanges, high frequency cells [HFC], and micronuclei) were measured in 149 male workers exposed to PAHs in two coke oven and one graphite electrode plants, and in 137 controls. We have assessed whether these biomarkers were related to several parameters reflecting exposure to PAHs, i.e., the sum of the airborne concentration of 13 PAHs, 1‐hydroxypyrene (1‐OHP) concentration in postshift urine, ben‐zo(a)pyrene‐diolepoxide adducts to hemoglobin (BPDE‐Hb adducts), and duration of exposure, taking also into account several possible confounding factors. HFC was the biomarker most consistently associated with the intensity of current exposure to PAHs. Smoking exerts an independent effect on the same parameter. On the basis of the logistic regression between the prevalence of abnormal HFC values and PAHs in air and 1‐OHP in postshift urine found in nonsmokers, it is suggested that the latter should be kept below 6.4 μg/m3 and 2.7 μg/g creatinine, respectively. No relationship was found between the cytogenetic effects and BPDE‐Hb adducts although both parameters are statistically correlated with the airborne PAH level. Some tumor markers in serum (carcinoembryonic antigen, tissue polypeptide antigen, sialic acid) and the urinary concentration of some polyamines were correlated with either PAHs in air or 1‐OHP in urine. The associations, however, were very weak which suggests that these biomarkers have limited practical value for the health surveillance of groups of workers exposed to genotoxic PAHs. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Irritant dermatitis among workers cleaning up a pesticide spill: California 1991
Authors: Koo Denise , Goldman Lynn , Baron Roy
Published: April 2007

An outbreak of dermatitis occurred among county jail inmates who removed dead fish from the Sacramento River in California after a spill of metam sodium. The spilled chemical decomposes to methylisothiocyanate (MITC), a known skin irritant. A retrospective cohort study was conducted among the inmates and their crew leaders. Among 42 jail group members, 27 had dermatitis involving the feet and ankles; dermatitis was associated with lower extremity water contact (RR = 3.4, 95% CI 1.0‐11.8); the attack rate increased with length of time spent in the water. For comparison, other state and federal employees who worked in the river at the same time were also interviewed. None reported dermatitis. Over three‐quarters (24/31) of these other clean‐up workers whose feet became wet changed to dry clothing immediately; none of the jail group changed immediately. The river concentration of MITC measured 20‐40 ppb at the time of exposure. We speculate that prolonged wetness, occlusive boots, friction, and heat contributed to chemical irritation at this low concentration; the experience of the other clean‐up workers suggests that this outbreak could have been prevented.
Occupational exposure of deck crews to carcinogenic agents on crude oil tankers
Authors: Moen Bente E. , Hollund Bjørg E. , Berntsen Morten , Flo Ragnar , Kyvik Knut Rasmus , Riise Trond
Published: April 2007

Occupational exposure to carcinogenic agents on the decks on six Norwegian crude oil tankers was examined in five harbors. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the need for improving the working environment on deck on these tankers. Technical arrangments and the work itself on the deck were observed during loading or unloading. Occupational monitoring was performed by active sampling of benzene, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, and some aldehydes. The crew answered a questionnaire concerning their work, use of protective equipment, and occurrence of acute symptoms. The levels of air‐borne carcinogenic agents were low, probably due to closed loading systems on all tankers. However, the seamen reported discomfort during the work that may be related to other chemical agents in the cargo. The seamen were frequently painting with lead chromate paint without using personal protective equipment. This type of chemical exposure should be evaluated.
Relationship between locations of chromosome breaks induced by vinyl chloride monomer and lymphocytosis
Authors: Fučić Aleksandra , Hitrec Vlasta , Garaj‐Vrhovac Vera , Barkovic Danica , Kubelka Dragan
Published: April 2007

The distribution of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM)‐induced chromosome breaks was studied in cultured lymphocytes of subjects occupationally exposed to this gas. In the examined subjects, the mean group value of chromosome aberrations is 6.5% and for sister chromatid exchange (SCE) frequencies, the mean value per cell is 7.9. These values are significantly higher than in the control population. Occupational exposure to VCM caused lymphocytosis together with disturbances of mitogenic activity in lymphocytes stimulated by phytohaemagglutinin. The results of G‐banding showed that sites of chromosome breakpoints caused by VCM can be related to the lymphatic tissue disorders. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Malignant mesothelioma in thermoelectric power plant workers in Italy
Authors: Crosignani Paolo , Forastiere Francesco , Petrelli Grazia , Merler Enzo , Chellini Elisabetta , Pupp Nicoletta , Donelli Stefano , Magarotto Giancarlo , Rotondo Ezio , Perucci Carlo , Berrino Franco
Published: April 2007

Asbestos has been widely used in Italian thermoelectric power plants and instances of exposure to workers have been documented in a variety of jobs. Preventive measures were put into effect only in the late 1970s. We report here on four mesothelioma cases among workers of three Italian power plants where cohort studies were carried out, and on three additional cases recorded by a systematic survey carried out on this neoplasm in Tuscany.

When the data of the cohorts sources are merged, a significant excess of lung cancer is also evident. Even without a quantitative assessment of exposure, this report shows the importance of asbestos risk in thermal power plants. The risk appears not to be restricted to any particular category of workers. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pleural mesotheliomas are underreported as occupational cancer in Sweden
Authors: Andersson Eva , Torén Kjell
Published: April 2007

The aim of this study was to estimate to what degree malignant pleural mesotheliomas were reported as occupational cancers. The study included all malignant pleural mesotheliomas (n = 210) found in the Cancer Registry 1980‐1989 from four Swedish counties. Whether or not a case was reported as occupational cancer was found in the Swedish Register of Reported Occupational Diseases. To evaluate the presence of exposure histories, the chest department files for 58 mesotheliomas from one county were reviewed.

The reporting was low, with only 75 mesotheliomas (36%) reported. All the cases were men, and for the men, the reporting frequency was 42%. The reporting was significantly lower for the last part of the decade than for the first part. The reporting frequency decreased with age. In the review of the chest department files, an exposure history was found in 93% of the reported cases and in 47% of the unreported cases. It is concluded that physicians must give more priority to exposure histories in patients with pleural mesotheliomas. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fibers in lung tissues of mesothelioma cases among miners and millers of the township of asbestos, quebec
Authors: Dufresne A. , Harrigan M. , Massé S. , Bégin R.
Published: April 2007

Twenty cases of mesothelioma among miners of the township of Asbestos, Quebec, Canada, have been reported. To further explore the mineral characteristics of various fibrous material, we studied the fibrous inorganic content of postmortem lung tissues of 12 of 20 available cases. In each case, we measured concentrations of chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, talc‐anthophyllite, and other fibrous minerals. The average diameter, length, and length‐to‐diameter ratio of each type of fiber were also calculated. For total fibers > 5 μm, we found > 1,000 asbestos fibers per mg tissue (f/mg) in all cases; tremolite was above 1,000 f/mg in 8 cases, chrysotile in 6 cases, crocidolite in 4 cases, and talc anthophyllite in 5 cases. Among cases with asbestos fibers, the tremolite count was highest in 7 cases, chrysotile in 3 cases, and crocidolite in 2 cases. The geometric mean concentrations of fibers ⩾ 5 μm were in the following decreasing order: tremolite > crocidolite > chrysotile > other fibers > talc‐anthophyllite > amosite. For total fibers < 5 μm, we found > 1,000 fibers per mg tissue (f/mg) in all cases; tremolite was above 1,000 f/mg in 12 cases, chrysotile in 8 cases, crocidolite in 7 cases, and talc‐anthophyllite in 6 cases. Tremolite was highest in 8 cases, chrysotile in 2 cases, and crocidolite and amosite in 2 cases. The geometric mean concentrations of fibers < 5 μm were in the following decreasing order: tremolite > other fibers > chrysotile > crocidolite > talc‐anthophyllite > amosite. We conclude, on the basis of the lung burden analyses of 12 mesothelioma cases from the Asbestos township of Quebec, that the imported amphibole (crocidolite and amosite) were the dominant fibers retained in the lung tissue in 2/12 cases. In 10/12 cases, fibers from the mine site (chrysotile and tremolite) were found at highest counts; tremolite was clearly the highest in 6, chrysotile in 2, and 2 cases had about the same counts for tremolite and chrysotile. If a relation of fiber burden‐causality of mesothelioma is accepted, mesothelioma would be likely caused by amphibole contamination of the plant in 2/12 cases and by the mineral fibers (tremolite and chrysotile) from the mine site in the 10 other cases.
Chronology of asbestos cancer discoveries: Experimental studies of the saranac laboratory
Authors: Schepers Gerrit W. H.
Published: April 2007

This commentary challenges a recently published perception that Dr. Le Roy Upson Gardner had not actually discovered in 1942 that inhaled chrysotile fibers could induce malignant neoplasia in mice. The handwritten laboratory notes and some of Dr. Gardner's slides have recently been found. They verify that the tumors he saw in the mice included truly malignant neoplasms. Gardner had by then also accumulated 11 cases of human lung cancer (two mesotheliomas) derived from Quebec asbestos miners and millers. An inhalation study designed by Dr. Gardner and conducted between 1951 and 1954, using cancer‐insusceptible mice, yielded neoplasia risk ratio of 5.7 compared with control animals. The studies also showed that the primary effect of chrysotile is to cause epithelial‐proliferation in alveoli adjacent to bronchioles. Chrysotile type asbestos bodies were shown to remain only transiently ferruginous, but even though invisible in direct light they can be visualized at high magnification through use of phase contrast and polarized light micrography.
Mortality of a cohort of U.S. workers employed in the crushed stone industry, 1940‐1980
Authors: Costello Joseph , Castellan Robert M. , Swecker Gary S. , Kullman Gregory J.
Published: April 2007

The mortality of 3,246 males who had been employed 1 or more years during 1940‐1980 at 20 crushed stone operations was evaluated for possible association between employment and death from lung cancer, pneumoconiosis, and other respiratory diseases. Four deaths were attributed to pneumoconiosis. Based on available work histories, at least two of these deaths were probably due to dust exposures in the crushed stone industry. Mortality attributed to pneumoconiosis and other nonmalignant respiratory diseases, including chronic obstructive lung disease, was significantly increased overall (SMR: 1.98; 95%CI: 1.21‐3.05), and especially so for a subcohort of crushed stone workers that processed granite (SMR: 7.26; 95%CI: 1.97‐18.59). With regard to lung cancer, overall SMRs were elevated (although not statistically significant). Analyzed by rock type, there was a significantly elevated lung cancer SMR among granite workers with at least 20 years latency (SMR: 3.35; 95%CI: 1.34‐6.90). Although not definitive, results of this study are consistent with the hypothesis that exposure to respirable silica dust is a risk factor for lung cancer.
Occupational exposures to fibers and quartz at 19 crushed stone mining and milling operations
Authors: Kullman Gregory J. , Greife Alice L. , Costello Joseph , Hearl Frank J.
Published: April 2007

From 1979 to 1982, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a cross‐sectional exposure assessment and mortality study of selected crushed stone facilities in the United States. This study was undertaken in part to address concerns that asbestos exposures could be occurring in some crushed stone operations due to the presence of amphibole and serpentine minerals. The investigation was also designed to characterize exposures to crystalline silica and other mineral compounds. Nineteen crushed stone operations, mining limestone, granite, or traprock were surveyed to assess exposures to respirable and total dusts, mineral compounds including crystalline silica, asbestos, and mineral fibers. At the initiation of the study, crushed stone operations were selected from a Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) listing of the active industry in 1978. With the exception of requiring inclusion of the traprock operation in Maryland where asbestos fibers were initially discovered, a stratified sample of operations was randomly selected by rock type (granite, limestone, traprock, or sandstone). However, because of reluctance or refusal of some companies to participate and because of the closures of some of the selected operations, replacements were randomly selected. Some replacement selections were likewise replaced due to lack of cooperation from the companies. The studied sample included only 10 of the 27 randomly selected operations in the original sample. Asbestos fibers were detected at one traprock facility, the Maryland operation where asbestos was originally found. Measured personal exposures to fibers exceeded the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) for two out of 10 samples. All of the samples were below the MSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), which was in effect at the time of the survey. However, due to the presence of nonasbestos mineral fibers in the environment, it could not be stated with certainty that all of the fibers counted by phase contrast microscopy were asbestos. A variety of silicate mineral fibers (other than those classified by NIOSH as asbestos) were detected in the traprock operations and at one granite operation. Crystalline silica was detected at 17 of the 19 surveyed crushed stone operations. Overexposures to crystalline silica were measured at 16 of the crushed stone operations; approximately one in seven personal‐respirable dust samples (14%) exceeded the MSHA PEL for crystalline silica. Approximately 25% of the respirable dust samples exceeded the NIOSH REL for crystalline silica. Mill operators and mill laborers consistently had the highest and most frequent overexposures to crystalline silica.
Benzene exposure assessment in rubber hydrochloride workers: A critical evaluation of previous estimates
Authors: Utterback David F. , Rinsky Robert A.
Published: April 2007

Many risk assessments for leukemia associated with benzene exposure have been based on the mortality experience of the rubber hydrochloride worker cohort. Although there have been several different historical exposure assessments proposed for this cohort, Paustenbach et al. [1992, J Tox Environ Health], recently published a new historical characterization of benzene exposures based on data previously developed by Rinsky et al. [1981, Am J Ind Med] and further modified by Crump and Allen [1984: OSHA]. Adjustments by Paustenbach et al. in the Rinsky et al. data result in retrospective benzene exposure estimates far greater than those previously reported, by an order of magnitude in many cases. Judgments made on the significance of dermal contact and interpretation of historical measurement data led Paustenbach et al. to arrive at exposure estimates for this cohort that are in conflict with what is known about the adverse effects of benzene exposure. More reasonable estimates for dermal absorption are included in this report that do not substantially affect total estimates of benzene exposure for the cohort. The exposure estimates originally presented in the Rinsky et al. article appear in concordance with data not previously reported in any analyses.
Work‐site clinical and neurobehavioral assessment of solvent‐exposed microelectronics workers
Authors: Broadwell D. K. , Darcey Dennis J. , Hudnell H. Kenneth , Otto David A. , Boyes William K.
Published: April 2007

Twenty‐five workers, five currently and 20 formerly involved in the manufacture of hybrid microcircuits, underwent clinical evaluations at the request of a management‐union committee concerned about chronic solvent exposures in a research and development laboratory. A battery of neurobehavioral tests was administered to compare the solvent‐exposed group with 32 age‐, gender‐, ethnicity‐, and education‐matched controls. The tests included: MMPI‐I, hand grip strength, tactile sensitivity, dexterity, color discrimination, visual acuity and contrast sensitivity, and tests selected from the computerized Neurobehavioral Evaluation System (NES2). Clinical narratives and retrospective exposure assessments in the study group suggested chronic low‐level exposure to solvents, with intermittent acute excursions. Work‐related diagnoses included upper respiratory mucosal irritation and sinusitis (44%), lower respiratory reactive airway‐disease (12%), and dermatitis (5%). Three workers (12%) had findings consistent with a solvent‐induced encephalopathy. Significant differences (after Bonferroni correction) were found between the two groups on 5 of 11 NES subtests: symptom scale, mood scale, finger tapping, simple reaction time, and symbol‐digit substitution. Differences also reached significance for overall vibration sensitivity thresholds, visual contrast sensitivity, and grip strength. The MMPI average clinical scale elevation was significantly higher in the exposed group than controls. These results support an association between chronic low‐dose solvent exposure and measurable neurobehavioral changes.
Reduced fertility among women exposed to organic solvents
Authors: Sallmén Markku , Lindbohm Marja‐Liisa , Kyyrönen Pentti , Nykyri Erkki , Anttila Ahti , Taskinen Helena , Hemminki Kari
Published: April 2007

A retrospective time‐to‐pregnancy study was performed among women biologically monitored for exposure to organic solvents. The women were participants in a previous study on spontaneous abortion. They were classified into exposure categories on the basis of work description and the use of solvents as reported in the questionnaires and on biological exposure measurements. Daily or high solvent exposure, adjusted for potential confounders, was significantly associated with reduced fecundability in the discrete proportional hazards analysis (incidence density ratio of clinical pregnancies 0.41; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.27‐0.62). The incidence density ratios were decreased also among workers who were exposed to organic solvents in shoe factories (0.28; CI 0.11‐0.71), dry cleaning shops (0.44; CI 0.22‐0.86), and in the metal industry (0.58; CI 0.34‐0.98). The possible effects of various biases are discussed. The results of the study support the hypothesis that daily or high exposure to organic solvents is associated with reduced fertility. There is a need for safer working methods in industries where organic solvents still are used.
Surveillance and prevention of work‐related carpal tunnel syndrome: An application of the sentinel events notification system for occupational risks
Authors: Maizlish Neil , Rudolph Linda , Dervin Kathleen , Sankaranarayan Mukund
Published: April 2007

In response to limitations in state‐based, occupational disease surveillance, the California Department of Health Services developed a model for provider‐ and case‐based surveillance of work‐related carpal tunnel syndrome. The objectives were to enhance case reporting, identify risk factors and high‐risk work sites, and link preventive interventions to work sites and the broader community. Using elements from surveillance of communicable diseases and sentinel health events, a model was integrated into the pre‐existing reporting system in one California county. Between 1989 and 1991, 54 Santa Clara County health care providers reported 382 suspected cases, of which 365 from 195 work sites met reporting guidelines. Risk factors were profiled from interviews of 135 prioritized cases and 38 employers. Of 24 work sites prioritized for a free, voluntary, nonenforcement inspection, 18 refused and 6 completed an on‐site visit. Sentinel Event Notification System for Occupational Risks (SENSOR) captured many cases not reported to the pre‐existing reporting system. Case interviews indicated a profile of symptoms and signs, treatment, and exposure to uncontrolled occupational risk factors, including a lack of training on ergonomics hazards. Employer health insurance, rather than workers' compensation, was the apparent source of payment for most medical bills. Employers lacked knowledge and motivation to reduce ergonomic risks. Governmentally mandated occupational ergonomics standards are urgently needed.
Esophageal cancer and occupation in a cohort of swedish men
Authors: Chow Wong‐Ho , McLaughlin Joseph K. , Malker Hans S. R. , Linet Martha S. , Weiner Jan A. , Stone B. J.
Published: April 2007

Using the Cancer Environment Registry of Sweden, which links the 1960 census information on employment with cancer incidence data from 1961‐1979, we conducted a systematic, population‐based assessment of esophageal cancer incidence by industry and occupation for men in Sweden. A general reduction in esophageal cancer incidence was found among agricultural and professional workers, whereas excess incidence was found among business, sales, and some craftsmen and production jobs. Elevated incidence was associated with several specific industries, including the food (SIR = 1.3, p < 0.05), beverage and tobacco (SIR = 1.8, p < 0.05) industries, vulcanizing shops within the rubber industry (SIR = 4.7, p < 0.01), and certain automotive building industries. Incidence also was increased among brewery workers (SIR = 4.2, p < 0.01) and butchers (SIR = 2.1, p < 0.01), and among individuals with certain service jobs, particularly waiters in the hotel and restaurant industry (SIR = 3.1, p < 0.01). Some of the occupational associations may be explained by lifestyle factors such as alcohol drinking and smoking, whereas others are specific and tend to support those of earlier investigations. This study adds to the evidence of a small but possibly important role of occupation in esophageal cancer etiology.
Mortality in a cohort of antimony smelter workers
Authors: Schnorr Teresa M. , Steenland Kyle , Thun Michael J. , Rinsky Robert A.
Published: April 2007

Animal studies show that antimonymay cause lung cancer and heart and lung disease in rodents. In exposed humans, ECG abnormalities and heart and lung disease have been reported. This mortality study of 1,014 men employed between 1937 and 1971 in a Texas antimony smelter consisted primarily of workers of Spanish ancestry (n = 928, 91.5%). Hispanics are known to smoke at much lower rates than non‐Hispanics, and their lung cancer and heart disease mortality is generally low. When ethnic‐specific Texas lung cancer death rates were used for comparison, mortality from lung cancer among antimony workers was elevated (SMR) 1.39, 90% CI 1.01‐1.88), and we observed a significant positive trend in mortality with increasing duration of employment. When ischemic heart disease death rates from three different Spanish‐surnamed populations were used for comparison, the rate ratios for mortality from ischemic heart disease were 0.91 (90% CI 0.84‐1.09), 1.22 (90% CI 0.78‐1.89), and 1.49 (90% CI 0.84‐2.63). Pneumoconiosis/ other lung disease death rates for Spanish‐surnamed men were unavailable and so calculation of rate ratios used white males as a comparison population (SMR 1.22; 90% CI 0.80‐1.80). These data suggest some increased mortality from lung cancer and perhaps nonmalignant respiratory heart disease in workers exposed to antimony. However, conclusions are limited by possible confounders and the difficulty of identifying appropriate referent groups.
An evaluation of scheduled bright light and darkness on rotating shiftworkers: Trial and limitations
Authors: Budnick Lawrence D. , Lerman Steven E. , Nicolich Mark J.
Published: April 2007

The effectiveness of a program of scheduled bright light and dark to alter the circadian pacemakers of rotating shiftworkers was evaluated. Thirteen industrial workers were exposed to scheduled bright light of 6,000‐12,000 lux on at least half of their 12‐hr night shifts for 3 months, as well as ambient light of 1,200‐1,500 lux. All 10 workers evaluated with urinary melatonin levels had morning melatonin suppression on the night shift, and 50% had a statistically significant circadian change. Although a few significant changes were noted concerning reported sleep and alertness, most findings concerning self‐perceived alertness and performance at work, and sleep patterns were mixed and inconsistent. The major complaint was increased difficulty adjusting to being off work after the night shift during the light phase. The alteration in urinary melatonin levels is the first objective demonstration that the bright light technology can alter the circadian pacemakers of workers in an industrial setting. At this worksite, a number of interventions to lessen the effects of rotating shiftwork are being evaluated. Criteria are proposed that should be considered in evaluating a worksite for the use of bright light technology.
Work‐related musculoskeletal symptoms among sheet metal workers
Authors: Welch Laura S. , Hunting Katherine L. , Kellogg Jordi
Published: April 2007

We report results of two pilot studies of the relationship between musculoskeletal disorders and work tasks in sheet metal workers. These two studies were undertaken as pilot investigations to determine if symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome or other work‐related musculoskeletal symptoms are present in sheet metal workers, and to determine if we could begin to identify the factors in sheet metal work that cause them. In the first study, telephone interviews were conducted with 18 disabled sheet metal workers; the second survey entailed self‐administered questionnaires completed by 47 active and retired sheet metal workers. Among the disabled workers, rotator cuff cases reported the greatest percent of time spent hanging duct, an overhead task commonly carried out during field work. Carpal tunnel cases reported more hand tool use than the rotator cuff cases. The questionnaire survey of active and retired workers found the proportion of time spent in a sheet metal shop (contrasted with field work) to be positively associated with hand symptoms; sheet metal workers who spent at least 65% of their time in the shop had an odds ratio of 3.4 for symptomatic hand cumulative trauma disorder (CTD) (p = 0.12). The proportion of time spent hanging duct was positively associated with both neck and shoulder symptoms, with odds ratios of 7.9 (p = 0.08) and 2.7 (p = 0.16), respectively. The results show that symptoms of neck, arm, and hand pain are common in sheet metal workers who are actively working, that carpal tunnel syndrome or hand pain is positively associated with more time spent working in the shop, and that shoulder pain or shoulder injuries is associated with work overhead (hanging duct). Ergonomic risks and cumulative trauma disorders have not been well characterized in the construction industry; these data strongly suggest that a subset of work tasks in construction increase the risk of cumulative trauma disorders.
Work outcome in workers with occupational skin disease
Authors: Holness D. Linn , Nethercott James R.
Published: April 2007

We carried out a follow‐up study of employment outcome for 230 workers with a diagnosis of occupational skin disease who were at least 2 years postdiagnosis. Seventy‐eight percent of the workers were working, but 57% of those working had changed jobs, 67% because of their skin problem. Thirty‐one percent had lost no time from work because of their skin disease, while 35% had lost at least 1 month. Forty‐three percent had applied for workers' compensation benefits, and 87% of those who had applied were successful in their claims. Older workers were more likely to be unemployed and to have applied for workers' compensation benefits. Women were less likely to have lost time from work and to have applied for workers' compensation. Those who had changed their jobs tended to have a better outcome with respect to active dermatitis, though they had lost more time from work and had more often applied for workers' compensation benefits.
United states non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma surveillance by occupation 1984‐1989: A twenty‐four state death certificate study
Authors: Figgs Larry W. , Dosemeci Mustafa , Blair Aaron
Published: April 2007

Death certificates from 23,890 male and female non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) cases and 119,450 noncancer controls from 24 states for the period 1984‐1989 were used to generate hypotheses regarding occupational associations. Cases were frequency matched by age, race, and gender with five controls per case. Odds ratios were calculated for 231 industries and 509 occupations. Significant associations were observed for a variety of white‐collar professionals (i.e., real estate agents, secretaries, bookkeepers, teachers, postal employees, business agents, engineers, chemists, and medical professionals) and blue‐collar occupations (i.e., firefighters, farm managers, aircraft mechanics, electronic repairers, mining machine operators, and crane and tower operators). © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Unbiased vs. Conservative estimators of etiological fractions: Examples of misclassification from studies of occupational lung cancer
Authors: Olsen Ole
Published: April 2007

Theoretical studies emphasize the importance of making unbiased etiological fraction estimates. In empirical works, however, the published estimates are usually conservative. The purpose of the present report is to study, empirically, the numerical magnitude of such conservative biases. Examples from the literature on occupational exposure and lung cancer are reported. It is demonstrated that conservative bias may decrease a numerical estimate by more than a factor 10 and that decreases by a factor 2 or 3 are not unusual. It is concluded that it is important, in future review studies, to pay attention to the magnitude of the conservative biases in the published empirical estimates and to put most emphasis on the least biased estimates in the review process.
Respiratory symptoms and lung function in wool textile workers
Authors: Zuskin Eugenija , Mustajbegovic Jadranka , Schachter E. N. , Kanceljak Bozica , Godnic‐Cvar Jasminka , Sitar‐Srebocan Vesna
Published: April 2007

Our study investigated a group of 216 wool textile workers (158 women and 58 men). Respiratory symptoms were assessed by questionnaire in wool textile workers and in 130 not exposed (control) workers. Ventilatory capacity was measured in wool workers by recording maximum expiratory flow‐volume (MEFV) curves on Monday before and after the work shift. Forced vital capacity (FVC), 1‐second forced expiratory volume (FEV1), and flow rates at 50% and the last 25% of the vital capacity (FEF50, FEF25) were measured on the MEFV curves. Analysis of the data demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of all chronic respiratory symptoms in wool workers than in controls. being the highest in wool workers for nasal catarrh (M: 63.8%; F: 44.9%) and for sinusitis (M: 62.1%; F: 43.0%). A high prevalence of acute symptoms, associated with the work shift, was also noted in wool workers. Exposure to wool dust caused significant across‐shift reductions of ventilatory capacity varying from 1.4% for FEV, to 9.1% for FEF50. Textile workers exposed to wool for > 10 years in the workplace had similar across‐shift reductions of ventilatory capacity tests as those with shorter exposures. In a large number of these wool workers, FEF50 and FEF25 were below 70% of predicted normal values. Smokers had acute and chronic lung function changes similar to those of nonsmokers, indicating that smoking did not account for all the respiratory effects seen in wool processing workers. Our data suggest that dust exposures in wool textile mills may be associated with the development of chronic respiratory symptoms and impaired lung function.
Airway responsiveness to methacholine, respiratory symptoms, and dust exposure levels in grain and flour mill workers in eastern france
Authors: Massin N. , Bohadana A. B. , Wild P. , Kolopp‐Sarda M. N. , Toamain J. P.
Published: April 2007

Our goal was to assess the relation between dust exposure levels and the respiratory health status of workers in grain and flour mills in eastern France. We studied 118 male workers from 11 mills and 164 unexposed male controls. Dust concentration was measured by personal sampling methods. Outcome variables included respiratory symptoms, routine pulmonary function tests, and indices of airway responsiveness to methacholine. A great within‐ and between‐area variability of inhalable dust concentration was found in all mills. A dose‐response relationship was observed between dust exposure levels and chronic respiratory symptoms, suggesting that exposure to grain and flour dust may lead to chronic bronchitis. A significant relation was found between dust exposure and airway hyper‐responsiveness; this finding is important since it has been hypothesized that the latter abnormality may lead to or be a predisposing factor in subsequent chronic, irreversible airflow obstruction.
Potential genotoxic risk related to simultaneous exposure to radionuclides and cytostatics
Authors: Brumen Vlatka , Horvat Durda , Tročić Ivančica
Published: April 2007

The aim of the study was to evaluate the genotoxic risk to medical personnel concurrently exposed to ionizing radiation and antineoplastics, using changes in their lymphocyte cell genome as a bioindicator. The study comprised 12 female nurses employed in the nuclear medicine hospital department and an equal number of matched controls. For each examinee, both conventional structural chromosomal aberration analysis and sister chromatid exchange test (SCE) were carried out. According to Student's t‐test, neither the incidence of structural chromosomal aberrations (p>0.6) nor the mean SCE‐frequency rate (p>0.3) were significantly increased among the exposed subjects. Nevertheless, in those exposed, irreparable chromosomal damages and wide SCE‐ranges were observed. Such findings suggest the possibility of genotoxic implications of concurrent occupational exposure to ionizing radiation and antineoplastic drugs.
Decreases of CD4‐ and CD8‐positive T lymphocytes in retired chromate workers
Authors: Tanigawa Takeshi , Araki Shunichi , Araki Takaharu , Minato Nagahiro , Yokoyama Kazuhito
Published: April 2007

To investigate the effects of chromates on the human immune system, we measured total T lymphocytes and their two major subpopulations (CD4 + and CD8 + T lymphocytes) in the peripheral blood of 19 retired male workers who had been exposed to chromate at a chemical plant. The results indicated that both CD4 + and CD8 + T lymphocytes were significantly decreased, resulting in decreases in total T lymphocytes and total lymphocytes.
Lead‐induced nephropathy: Relationship between various biological exposure indices and early markers of nephrotoxicity
Authors: Chia K. S. , Jeyaratnam J. , Lee James , Tan Cynthia , Ong H. Y. , Ong C. N. , Lee Evan
Published: April 2007

Lead nephropathy in adults is silent and insidious, characterized by the absence of proteinuria in its early phase. Of the early markers of nephrotoxicity, urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG) appears to be the only one that is elevated in early lead nephropathy. However, the elevation in urinary NAG activity may be a response to a sharp increase in renal burden of lead. Its usefulness as a marker of chronic lead nephropathy is thus in doubt. There is a need, then, to identify a reliable early biological indicator of lead‐induced kidney damage. Furthermore, there is also a need to identify suitable markers of chronic exposure to describe meaningful dose‐response and dose‐effect relationships. Traditionally, blood lead (PbB) was used, but the current blood lead level (PbBrec) is more an indicator of recent exposure. Time‐integrated blood lead indices (PbBint) derived from repeated serial PbB measurements can be used as indices of chronic exposure. In 128 lead‐exposed workers, the PbBint was the most important exposure variable in describing the variability in urinary α1‐microglobulin (Uα1m), urinary β2‐microglobulin (Uβ2m), and urinary retinol binding protein (URBP). Uα1m was the only marker that was significantly higher in the exposed group, with a good dose‐response and dose‐effect relationship with PbBint. The lack of dose‐response and dose‐effect relationships in other studies may be due to inappropriate exposure markers as well as less sensitive response markers. PbBint has a better correlation than PbBrec. Furthermore, Uα1m may be the most sensitive of the markers because of its higher molecular weight.