bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
O-178 PREVALENCE AND DETERMINANTS OF EATING DISORDERS AMONG WORKERS FROM AN ELECTRICITY COMPANY
Authors: Sellami Imen , Abbes Anwar , Hrairi Anouare , Ghrab Mohamed Anis , Meska Ahmed , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal , Hajjaji Mounira , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Investigating eating disorders among workers is crucial for addressing this health concern in an occupational setting. This study examines the occurrence and factors contributing to eating disorders among employees of an electricity company.

Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study among employees of an electricity company using a self-administered questionnaire. Socio-professional characteristics were collected, and eating disorders were screened using the Eating Disorder Screen for Primary Care (ESP), while anxiety and stress were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results
We enrolled 497 workers, with a mean age of 42.2 ± 11.1 years, and 381 were male (76.7%). The average job tenure was 15.2 ± 10.8 years. Among participants, 44.7% engaged in physical activities, and 44.1% were smokers. Using the ESP, 40.6% exhibited eating disorders. Regarding anxiety, 12.5% had signs of anxiety. In terms of depression, 69 presented symptoms of depression (13.9%). Eating disorder scores were significantly higher among females (p=0.03). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a significant association between depression and ESP score.

Discussion
The findings highlight substantial rates of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression among electricity company workers. Addressing eating disorders, anxiety, and depression necessitates targeted interventions, including mental health support, stress management, and gender-sensitive strategies.

Conclusion
This study underscores significant rates of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression among electricity company employees. Effective interventions should encompass mental health support, stress management, and gender-sensitive approaches.
O-179 GLUTEN-FREE TREND CAUSES OCCUPATIONAL RHINITIS, ASTHMA AND DERMATITIS AMONG BAKERS DUE TO MORE UNUSUAL EXPOSURE – HOW TO TACKLE THIS EMERGING PROBLEM?
Authors: Jungewelter Soile 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Baker’s rhinitis and asthma caused by inhaled cereal flours are among the most common and well-known occupational diseases. Lately, gluten-free or vegan diets have increased in popularity and bakers’ allergens are changing in parallel.

Methods
We created an information sheet for the workplaces with practical advice on preventive measures.

Results
Systemic preventive measures may include easy-to-clean surfaces and sufficient cleaning of workplaces to minimize exposure to dust. Technical measures might include use of local- or area-based exhaust ventilation and dust removal via air filtration. Technical measures need to be planned according to the nature of baking work and the requirements of individual workplaces. Organizational measures should include health and safety information dissemination to workers and training to promote safe working habits. Personal protective measures are focused on clothing, gloves, and respiratory protection, which must be made available at the workplace with workers instructed in their proper use. However, wearing respiratory protection with particulate filters for allergen protection can be difficult due to the working environment, where fine dusts, high temperatures, humidity, physical burden, or food hygiene regulations may all be problematic for their use.

Discussion
Education in identifying important allergens, their avoidance and handling, and early signs of allergy is important. Accurate and timely identification of vegan or gluten-free baker’s allergies may effectively prevent severe and generalized symptoms due to inadvertent exposure.

Conclusion
It is important to recognize that contemporary baking may expose to unusual allergens such as buckwheat or psyllium and to consider all these allergens when a work-related disease is suspected.
O-181 ETHICAL CHALLENGES: THAI PHYSICIANS’ ENCOUNTERS IN OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE PRACTICE
Authors: Ekpanyaskul Chatchai 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The aim of this pilot study was to explore the ethical challenges in terms of attitudes and encounters with ethical issues in occupational medicine (OM) during clinical practice among Thai physicians.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 2018 to 2020, and gathered data from Thai physicians who attended a 2-month short course on upskilling in OM. A self-administered questionnaire included demographic information, attitudes, and experiences related to ethics in OM during clinical practice, as well as approaches to ethical dilemmas in a mock case study.

Results
Out of the 295 respondents who completed the questionnaire, 107 physicians(36.3 %) reported ever struggling with ethical problems during their OM practice. The primary source of conflict often stemmed from employers, and the majority sought resolution by consulting experts. The top three ethical issues they faced were managing worker health check-ups, diagnosing occupational diseases, and evaluating fitness for work, respectively. About 48.1% of all respondents felt that OM practice should have higher ethical knowledge and skills compared to other fields, and 83.1% expressed a need for training in ethical decision-making.

Discussion
Regarding the evaluation of mock cases, the principles of ethics in terms of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice are considered, with their relevance varying based on the specific situation.

Conclusion
In conclusion, this study is the first report on current ethical practices in OM among Thai physicians. The findings could serve as a valuable resource for designing OM training programs in ethics and for supporting decision-making during challenging dilemma situations in their clinical practice.
P-306 AN EXPLORATION OF THE CORRELATION BETWEEN THE LIVER FIBROSIS INDEX IN THE WORKING-AGE POPULATION AND BLOOD HEAVY METAL
Authors: Yu Su-Hsuan , Dai Chia-Yen , Chuang Hung-Yi , Ho Chi-Kung 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction and Objective
One of the death causes among the working-age population in Taiwan is chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, which could potentially progress into liver cancer. Liver cirrhosis was the progressive change of fibrosis, which was related with metal exposure and stored in the liver. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the liver fibrosis and the blood heavy metals of the working-age population in Taiwan.

Methods
We used data from individuals aged 15 to 64 who have undergone health checks. Based on the liver fibrosis index, FIB-4, the subjects were divided into two groups, those with and without liver fibrosis. The association between the FIB-4 and the concentration of heavy metals in plasma was analyzed statistically and graphically by the generalized additive models.

Results
From the regression analysis, we found a significant negative correlation between blood zinc and the FIB-4; furthermore, a significant positive correlation of FIB-4 with blood lead concentration. That is, higher levels of blood zinc are associated with lower levels of liver fibrosis, while the opposite was found for blood lead. These correlations persisted even after adjusting for other potential confounding factors, indicating that zinc provides a clear protective effect against liver fibrosis, while lead may promote its pro-gression.

Discussion and Conclusion
The study suggested that exposure to certain harmful heavy metals and deficiencies in essential elements may be related to the development of liver fibrosis in the working-age population. In the future, mechanism investigation were needed to understand clearly the potential impact of heavy metal exposure and liver damage.
P-311 NOISE RISK ASSESSMENT AND HEARING HEALTH OF EMPLOYEES IN A WATER PRODUCTION COMPANY IN GABON
Authors: Mikponhoue Rose , Olou Rose Christelle Mikponhoue 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Exposure to noise in the workplace is likely to affect workers’ health. In Gabon, a study carried out at a water production plant aimed to measure noise levels and assess the hearing status of exposed employees.

Material and methods
This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted over a one-month period at the plant. It focused on technical staff working in the plant, in contact with noisy machines. Noise levels were measured using a sound level meter, and each exposed worker underwent otoscopy and audiogram. The data were analyzed using EPI DATA3.1 software.

Results
A total of 54 agents, including two females, were included. The mean age was 42.3 + 4.2 years [24-59 years]. The average working day was 8 hours, and the average length of service was 13.23 years. Noise mapping in the machine rooms showed noise levels ranging from 85.7 to 107 dBA; the supervisory room had a noise level of 68 dB A. Personal protective equipment. was not worn systematically. Tinnitus (40.7%) and sleep disturbance (24.1%) were the most common symptoms. No otoscopy was pathological. The incidence of hearing loss was 11.1%. No occupational deafness had been identified.

Discussion and Conclusion
Noise levels in the technical rooms were high, requiring corrective action and insistence on the effective wearing of personal protective equipment. Key words: Noise risk, hearing health, water production company, Gabon
P-312 PRATI: A PROJECT TO DESCRIBE AND PREVENT OCCUPATIONAL INFECTIONS IN ITALY
Authors: Mattioli Stefano , Murgia Nicola , Curti Stefania , Ballarin Maria Nicoletta , Cecchino Caterina Tonia , De Palma Giuseppe , Dini Guglielmo , Dore Stefania , Durando Paolo , Mancini Gianpiero , Rosa Milena , Talini Donatella , Campo Giuseppe , Papale Adriano , Leva Antonio 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In Italy, the impact of SARS-CoV2 pandemic on workers’ health in public and private companies has highlighted the absence of a correct description of the epidemiological features of occupational infections. The objective of the project called PRATI (Progetto di Ricerca Attiva delle
Tecnopatie Infettive - Project for the Active Research of the Occupational Infections) is to activate an Italian network in which different structures (Local Health Authorities, Occupational Medicine clinics and consultation centres in Hospitals and/or Universities, National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work namely INAIL) collaborate to develop a system for monitoring occupational infections and evaluating their associated risk factors.

Methods
The network will experience forms of active research of work-related infectious diseases, and will collect data on risk factors, including organizational and management ones, based on workplace site inspections, as well. The major source of data will come from notified occupational diseases and accidents. Other useful data will be collected from notifications of specific infectious diseases, mandatory for public health reasons. Anonymised data will be centralized at INAIL. The effectiveness of the activities promoted by the network will be evaluated using interrupted time series.

Results
The activation of the PRATI network will allow the systematic collection of data related to occupational infections or work-related accidents at risk of infection.

Discussion and Conclusion
Data collection and analysis from the PRATI project will facilitate the identification of possible critical issues in the workplace protection system and therefore the planning of specific interventions in areas and sectors at risk.
P-320 WHAT DOES A LARGE LANGUAGE MODEL KNOW ABOUT THE PREVALENCE OF OCCUPATIONALLY-RELATED MEDICAL CONDITIONS? EXPERIMENTS WITH SYNTHETIC AND REAL OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE DATA
Authors: Johnson Mark William 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
We report on experiments with Large Language Models (LLM) to generate synthetic data around occupationally-related medical conditions in a variety of industrial settings.

Methods and Results
A LLM was programmed to generate 10000 records giving accounts of fictitious patients working in a variety of industrial settings with a range of randomised parameters concerning worker characteristics (e.g. age, sex, underlying conditions, type of activity, etc). The generated text was then coded by AI to determine what AI “thought” were the likely clinical outcomes. This data was then compared to the general prevalence of different medical conditions. A second experiment was conducted with historical data from the Health and Occupational Research network at Manchester University (THOR). LLMs were able to extrapolate underlying factors within the data providing contextual richness to the existing case records. Both these experiments result in realistic accounts, and we show how LLMs tend to reflect the prevalence of conditions.

Discussion and Conclusion
Given that an LLM is an AI tool which predicts text based on “training” derived the relationships between words in a vast corpus of text on the internet, these experiments raise a fundamental question as to what LLMs “know” about the prevalence of occupational medical conditions: indeed, how much knowledge about occupational medicine might be encoded in the structures of language? We suggest that the study of LLMs in this way might be an additional tool not only for identifying, predicting and mitigating risk, but for assisting in the identification of new sentinal cases.
P-323 A CASE REPORT OF OCCUPATIONAL TUBERCULOUS MENINGITIS IN A PREGNANT NURSE
Authors: Puspitasari Agustina 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Tuberculous meningitis manifests extrapulmonary TB caused by the seeding of the meninges with the bacilli of Mycobacterium TB. HCWs are identified as being at high risk for the disease.

Method
This article presents a case of 28-year-old pregnant nurse with tuberculous meningitis and hydrocephalus. This case was confirmed with 7 steps to establish occupational disease.

Discussion
Step 1. Clinical diagnosis was Tuberculous meningitis with hydrocephalus that was confirmed at January, 4rd,2023 and pregnant at 2 February, 2023. Step 2. The hazards at the internal medicine ward was found Mycobacterium TB. Step 3. There is strong evidence based about relation between clinical diagnosis and exposure at the workplace. TB is a known occupational hazard for HCWs especially in countries with a high burden of TB. It is estimated that HCWs have a 2 to 3 fold increased risk of developing TB compared with the general population. In this cases she was contact with 2 TB patients with MTB positive in one month before. The ward was not an negative pressure room and she only used surgical mask and handscoon when contact with patient. Step 4. There is no minimal dose for biology exposure Step 5. Individual factor in this patient are pregnancy with hyperemesis gravidarum, gastritis, HNP Step 6. Factors outside work: one of patient’s children child was confirmed TB after close contact scrining Step 7. We conclude as Occupational Tuberculous Meningitis.

Conclusion
Occupational Tuberculous Meningitis was confirmed with 7 steps to establish occupational disease.
P-325 ISSUES WITH INITIAL MEDICAL CERTIFICATES FOR OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENTS
Authors: Sellami Imen , Feki Afef , Rmadi Nehla , Kotti Nada , Abbes Anwar , Tah Marieme , Meska Ahmed , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal , Hajjaji Mounira 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The responsibility of physicians in documenting occupational accidents (OAs) is crucial for the compensation of victims. The Initial Medical Certificate (IMC) serves as a primary document for this purpose. This study assesses the compliance of collected IMCs with best practice recommendations.

Methods
A descriptive retrospective study encompassed all IMCs issued post-OAs, sourced from medical expertise records, evaluating both form and content adherence.

Results
Among 107 collected certificates, most victims were middle-aged men (average age: 38.85 years). The construction and public works sector (24.3%) and services (15.9%) were the most represented. Slipping (20.6%) and carrying heavy objects (17.8%) were the leading mechanisms of OAs, with the lumbar spine (38.3%) being the predominant injury site. Notably, 42% of certificates were unreadable, and only 12.4% included the patient’s identity card number. While the accident date was present in 97.2% of cases, clinical examination details and accident circumstances were largely absent.

Discussion
Addressing deficiencies in IMC documentation necessitates collaboration between healthcare providers and legal authorities to establish standardized reporting protocols for OAs. Furthermore, enhancing the quality and effectiveness of IMCs requires ongoing medical training programs in medicolegal practices. These efforts are crucial to ensure equitable compensation processes for OA victims and promote workplace safety.

Conclusion
The study unveiled deficiencies in IMC quality, possibly stemming from a lack of medicolegal training among physicians. Reinforcing best practice guidelines and enhancing collaboration between healthcare and legal entities are essential steps to improve IMC documentation, ultimately benefiting OA victims and the legal system.
P-327 CAN WORKING IN A WATER-PUMPING STATION CAUSE PLEURAL MESOTHELIOMA?
Authors: Jlassi Olfa , Ayadi Abir , Triki Amira , Magroun Imene 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Pleural mesothelioma is a rare cancer with various risk factors dominated by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. We illustrate the case of mesothelioma diagnosed after retirement to discuss his occupational etiology.

Methods
This case report presents a patient diagnosed with mesothelioma. He was referred due to suspicion of an occupational origin for his illness. A comprehensive evaluation was conducted including a detailed examination of his occupational history.

Results
A 65-year-old male, smoker, with a family history of lung cancer and no significant medical history. He presented with a chronic dry cough, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss. Chest X-ray showed a left pleural effusion and an abnormal shadow in the right lung field. CT-scan showed pleural thickening and multiple enhanced nodules in the right pleural cavity. The diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma was confirmed by pleural biopsy. The occupational investigation revealed that he had been employed as a pipe fitter and welder at a water-pumping station for 18-years and that he had been exposed to asbestos fibers while carrying out welding tasks involving asbestos cement-based pipes. Pleural mesothelioma has been declared as an occupational disease.

Discussion
Working in a water-pumping station is not typically considered a direct cause of pleural mesothelioma. Exposure to occupational carcinogens needs an exhaustive investigation.

Conclusion
Most cases of pleural mesothelioma have been linked to asbestos exposure in the workplace. The occupational physician has a crucial role in identifying carcinogens even when exposure is distant.
P-328 COVID-19: LONG-TERM WORK PRODUCTIVITY AND ACTIVITY IMPAIRMENT AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS
Authors: Omrane Amira , Harrathi Chayma , Mighri Mouna , Khalfallah Taoufik 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction and Objective
To assess the long-term consequences of covid-19 infection on the work productivity of health care workers (HCWs) at Tahar Sfar University Hospital during the first wave of COVID-19.

Methods
This is an exhaustive cross-sectional study. It was performed among hospital staff with confirmed COVID-19 infection at Tahar Sfar University Hospital during the first wave of COVID-19. A well-designed questionnaire was widely distributed among infected health professionals. The questionnaire identified the participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, acute COVID-19 symptoms, comorbidities (diabetes), risk factors, and associated conditions. For post-acute COVID-19 conditions, the validated The Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire-General Health (WPAI-GH) scale was used:

Results
The total number of completed and returned questionnaires was 109 (15.13%). The WPAI scale showed high rates of presenteeism and lost productivity in the workplace, in addition to a significant percentage of absenteeism. Among the symptoms of acute COVID-19 illness, three, in particular, increased the risk of worsening work performance: shortness of breath, cough, and itching. The multivariate analysis revealed significant correlations between post-acute COVID-19 symptoms and acute COVID-19 symptoms, comparing these results with the literature, it was legitimate to deduce that the initial clinical manifestations of the infection conditioned the appearance of the post-COVID-19 state and the installation of some post-COVID-19 symptoms rather than others.

Discussion and Conclusion
COVID-19 infection has become the disease of the century. Our state should establish a well-founded national program against natural disasters and incorporate appropriate rehabilitation programs in the follow-up of survivors, especially HCWs.
P-336 ABSTRACT DETECTION OF SLEEP DISORDERS AMONG TAXI DRIVERS
Authors: Fendri Myriam Nabiha , Hrairi Anwar , Kammoun Nesrine , Bani Mejda 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The Epworth scale is used to screen for behavioral manifestations associated with obstructive sleep apnea. Taxi drivers, who have irregular working hours and a history of metabolic disorders, may be prone to sleep disorders.

Objective
The aim of this study was to screen for sleep disorders among taxi drivers.

Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on taxi drivers working during the day who had consulted the Institute of Occupational Health and Safety between November 2022 and March 2023. Screening for sleep disorders was done using the Arabic version of the Epworth questionnaire, which has been validated.

Results
The study included 132 taxi drivers, with one female driver. The average age was 48 years. The average professional experience was 17.4 years. The average number of working hours was 8.8. Tobacco and alcohol consumption was found in 61% and 18.2% of cases, respectively. Seventy percent of drivers did not follow physical distancing or mask-wearing during breaks or meals. Surgical masks were worn for 8 hours by 30% of drivers and for more than 24 hours by 12.5%, with 25% of workers performing aerosol-generating procedures using surgical masks. In 70% of cases, personal protective equipment was inadequate. Vaccination status showed that 57.5% of healthcare workers were not vaccinated.

Discussion
The working conditions of healthcare workers constituted factors favoring exposure to coronavirus.

Conclusion
Emphasis should be placed on strengthening protective measures by ensuring an adequate supply of personal protective equipment and raising awareness among healthcare workers.