bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
O-206 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PROBLEMS PREVENTION: EVIDENCE FROM A NIGERIAN STUDY
Authors: Afolabi Funmilayo Juliana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational diseases and injuries are declining significantly in some high-income countries. However, parallel decline cannot be observed in low-and -medium-income countries (LMICs). For instance, many of the Nigerian workers are exposed to occupational hazards. This is because about 90% work in the informal sector and are more exposed to poor working conditions than formal workers, making them more frequently vulnerable to occupational health problems (OHPs). This study explores how OHPs are prevented among Nigerian automobile artisans.

Method
Thirty-nine informal automobile artisans (panel beaters, mechanics, painters, and vulcanizers) in Osun State, Nigeria, were purposively interviewed. The data was analyzed thematically with MAXQDA 2020 software.

Results
The artisans reported exposure to various occupational hazards, which could cause injuries (e.g., bruises and wounds); and illnesses (e.g., vision problems, malaria, stress, and pains). The OHPs with major consequences are prevented, while the ones with minor effects are tolerated. Prevention mechanisms included chocking the vehicle after tyre removal, thoroughly checking the car for extra petrol in the boot before welding, removing sharp objects from the environment, and rejecting dangerous work.

Discussion
The individual artisans actively prevent injuries and illnesses in the sector. Moreover, their occupational risk perception and risk tolerance influence the prevention of OHPs. For instance, the artisans prevent OHPs with high-risk perception (e.g., vehicle falling on workers, burns, and tire bursting), while OHPs with low-risk perception are ignored.

Conclusion
In the absence of a policy that guides OSH in LMICs, the agency can be encouraged to be actively involved in prevention.
P-371 SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH BUSINESSES ON THE PATH TO SUCCESS: HOW TO ESTABLISH A SUCCESSFUL OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES COMPANY IN A DEVELOPING COUNTRY AND REPLICATE THESE STRATEGIES IN OTHER DEVELOPING COUNTRIES SOUTH-SOUTH COOPERAT
Authors: Gonzalez Luis 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Creating a successful Occupational Health SME in a developing country like Costa Rica requires appropriate strategies and approaches tailored to its unique nature. Often, both entrepreneurs and workers may not fully grasp the importance of occupational health and safety, making it essential to navigate the challenges of legal requirements and unfair competition in a loosely regulated but restricted market.

Methods and Results
Therefore, the implementation of the following strategies can be crucial in building a robust organization that can emerge and achieve success, benefiting not only the businesses but also their essential workforce: 1. Market-Specific Needs Identification: Key to success is identifying the market’s specific needs. Conduct thorough research to understand labor challenges and occupational health gaps, enabling a more optimal approach to the market. 2. Belief in the Work Team: Have faith in your team by providing the necessary support and benefits to cultivate a solid and highly trustworthy workforce. This fosters a culture of high professionalism and world-class service. 3. Invest in Technology and Efficient Management Systems: Investing in technology and efficient management systems streamlines internal processes and enhances the customer experience. This includes appointment tracking, detailed reporting, and a customer-centric approach.

Discussion and Conclusion
By developing these strategies effectively, an organization can pave the way for success not only in Costa Rica but also in other developing countries.
O-211 HEALTH RISKS FROM CLIMATE FIX: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND BATTERY STORAGE
Authors: Gottesfeld Perry 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The projected growth in electric vehicles (EVs) and battery storage is expected to increase mineral demand between 10 and 30-fold by 2040. A typical electric car uses six times the mineral inputs of a conventional vehicle and expected demand over the next 20 years will require 40% more copper, 60% more nickel and cobalt, and 90% more lithium than current production levels. Other required inputs including graphite will also experience a sharp rise in demand.

Methods
Using UN Comtrade and other online databases we examine export trends for key metals used in battery production. Utilizing Pubmed, Google Scholar and other sources this paper reviews the available exposure data and health outcomes for mining and ore processing for the key metal and mineral inputs for batteries.

Results/ Discussion
Community opposition to mining and mineral processing in wealthy countries will likely drive growth in informal sector miners in low and middle-income countries. Aside from increased exposures to heavy metals, silica dust will remain a significant health threat in mining operations resulting in increased rates of silicosis, Tuberculosis (TB) and lung cancer. Metals including arsenic, manganese, nickel and cobalt are associated with nervous system effects, cardiovascular disease, and other health effects. However, low-cost interventions to significantly reduce these exposures have been proven to be effective although not widely adopted in informal sector.

Conclusion
Government agencies, battery manufacturers and the vehicle manufacturers must develop action plans to invest in reducing silica dust and metal exposures among informal and formal sector miners in the supply chain.
O-215 POST-MORTEM RECOGNITION OF NASOPHARYNGEAL CANCER AS AN OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE IN A CARPENTER
Authors: Youabd Saadia , Tahri Loubna , Wifaq Kamal , Omali Asmaa , El Kholti Abdeljalil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Post-mortem recognition of occupational diseases is a crucial step aimed at establishing a link between a disease contracted by an individual and their work environment. It is essential for safeguarding the rights of the deceased and their family. The objective of the presented case study is to examine the post-mortem recognition of nasopharyngeal cancer in a carpenter, linked to their occupational exposure to formaldehyde.

Materials and Methods
Tripartite medical expertise was conducted by the occupational health service at Ibn Rochd University Hospital, following a request from the Casablanca court of first instance.

Results
The plaintiff, aged 51, worked as a carpenter for seven years in a company engaged in wood treatment and furniture design. Their exposure to wood dust and formaldehyde was reasonably considered to be the cause of nasopharyngeal cancer, resulting in a permanent physical disability of 70%. After the worker’s death, an evaluation of compensation for their beneficiaries was conducted.

Discussion
Formaldehyde has been classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in 2004. The causal relationship between the activity of varnishing wooden furniture and nasopharyngeal cancer is firmly established and is listed in the Moroccan Table of compensable occupational diseases, No. 1.2.8bis.

Conclusion
Compensation for the beneficiaries is essential to support families of workers who have died from occupational diseases. However, implementing preventive measures in the workplace is equally critical to protect the health of workers and prevent such cases in the future.
O-218 SCREENING FOR PATHOLOGIES: ROLE OF THE OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE
Authors: Es-Saadi Kawtar , Wifaq Kamal , Tahri Loubna , Benjdiya Malak , Hammal Asmaa , El Kholti Abdeljalil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The pre-employment medical assessment conducted by the occupational health physician plays a crucial role in screening for various pathologies among new recruits. This study aims to demonstrate the importance of screening for certain pathologies during pre-employment medical examinations in the process of assessing employment suitability.

Materials and Methods
This study is based on the analysis of three cases of pathologies detected during pre-employment medical examinations in three newly recruited personnel at IBN ROCHD university hospital in Casablanca. These personnel were applicants for the positions of resident and administrator. The health status evaluation was based on specialized medical opinions.

Results
The first case involves a diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia in a traumatology resident. After analysis, the decision was to change the specialty to a discipline with a lower physical workload. The second case concerns minor scoliosis detected in a visceral surgery resident. After analysis, employment suitability was subject to the condition of orthopedic adaptation measures. The third case involves delusional psychosis detected in a newly assigned technician, working in the administrative department. After analysis, work suitability was decided upon with the condition of regular medical reevaluations by the occupational health physician.

Discussion
Employment suitability is determined based on the health status observed during the pre-employment medical assessment. Regular medical reevaluations are necessary to assess the alignment between the individual’s health status and employment requirements.

Conclusion
Screening for certain pathologies during pre-employment medical assessments is a vital tool in determining employment suitability and enabling the recommendation of necessary adaptation measures to preserve the worker’s health.
O-219 RETURN TO WORK AFTER A SICK LEAVE DUE TO ILLNESS: A CASE STUDY OF METASTATIC COLON CANCER
Authors: Benjdiya Malak , Wifaq Kamal , Tahri Loubna , Es-Saadi Kawtar , Mazroui Imane , El Kholti Abdeljalil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Returning to work after a cancer-related absence is an important process in the reintegration of workers. The objective of this study is to investigate the return to work after a sick leave due to colon cancer.

Materials and Methods
The study was conducted on a financial affairs manager at the 20th August Hospital in Casablanca, who was diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer. A pre- return visit assessing her health status, as well as an analysis of her work position regarding the working conditions and constraints, were carried out.

Results
The clinical examination during the pre-return visit revealed mild asthenia, occasional nausea, and anxiety. The work study identified a significant physical workload assessed by the INRS scale and high occupational stress, with a 44 score of PSS-14. Recommendations were made for adjusting the working conditions, such as reducing physical workload and limiting contact with patients and hospital staff. Psychological support for the worker was also provided to facilitate the return to work.

Discussion
According to several studies, the impact of cancer often requires adaptations to the work position, such as ergonomic adjustments, lightening the workload, and flexibility in working hours and location. The approach of occupational health services is essential in evaluating the fitness of workers with cancer to return to work after a sick leave.

Conclusion
Returning to work after a period of sick leave involves numerous challenges, highlighting the indispensable role of the occupational health physician.
O-220 OCCUPATIONAL INDUCED CATARACTS: A CASE REPORT OF 3 PATIENTS
Authors: Tidjani Abdoulaye , Kamal Wifaq , Sara Soltani , Mazroui Imane , Abdeljalil El Kholti 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Exposure to ionizing and thermal radiation from incandescent glass or metal represents a health risk for workers. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of the reported cases and to identify their risk factors.

Material and Methods
This is a prospective descriptive study conducted over a one-month period from July 1 to 31, 2023, at the ophthalmology department Casablanca University Hospital. Our study concerns workers received in ophthalmology consultation and diagnosed with a cataract.

Results
The first two cases were men aged 52 and 45 respectively, fishermen who had been working on the Casablanca beach for 20 and 18 years respectively. The third case was a 50-year-old man who had been a welder for 20 years. All three cases had no pathological antecedents, and worked without protective equipment or medical supervision. Ophthalmological examination of all three cases revealed bilateral asymmetric cortico-nuclear cataracts. The patients returned to work 14 days after the operation. The 3 cases were declared as compensable occupational diseases, recognized in tables 2.1 and 2.2 with a 10 and 15 year delay.

Discussion
The study showed us that long-term exposure to ultraviolet and thermal radiation can damage the lens and lead to cataracts, particularly when preventive measures are not taken.

Conclusion
Although treatable, occupational origin is rare in the literature. Compliance with preventive measures remains the only guarantee of primary prevention.
O-221 OCCUPATIONAL TUBERCULOSIS AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS: A REPORTED OF TWELVE CASES
Authors: Asrir Ihsan , Wifaq Kamal , Tahri Loubna , Soltani Sara , Kholti El Abdeljalil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Tuberculosis (TB) is a human disease caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis, and transmitted by airborne pathway. The objective of this study is to draw up the epidemiological and professional profile of healthcare workers (HCWs) with TB at the Ibn Rochd University Hospital Center in Casablanca.

Methods
This is a retrospective study of twelve cases among HCWs with TB, collected over a 28 months period (December 2018- March 2021).

Results
Twelve HCWs were reported to have pleuropulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The patients were predominantly female, with an average age of 28.6 years and an average professional seniority of 3 years. All had a normal medical examination on recruitment with a history of BCG vaccination. They included three nurses, three resident physicians, two physiotherapists, two radiology technicians and two ambulance technicians. Ten HCWs worked in high TB risk services. Five cases had pulmonary localization, lymph node in four cases, pleuropulmonary, plural and multifocal in only one case for each. Four cases have declared as occupational disease. Nine cases benefited from medium-term sick leave.

Discussion
Studies estimate that the TB risk among HCWs is about three times higher than in the general population. A higher risk of acquiring TB was associated with certain work locations (laboratory, emergency facilities …), occupational categories (radiology technicians, nurses...),a professional activity duration more than 10 years and certain acts that generate aerosols(bronchial endoscopy, orotracheal intubation,aspiration, respiratory physiotherapy...).

Conclusion
High incidence of TB among HCWs requires the adoption of strict preventive measures to limit its spread in the healthcare workplace.
O-225 RETURN TO WORK DUE TO MENTAL ILLNESS AMONG THE STAFF OF THE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL CENTER IBN ROCHD-CASABLANCA
Authors: Norredine Doha , Tahri Loubna , Wifaq Kamal , Hammal Asmaa , Mazroui Imane , El Kholti Abdeljalil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Mental health problems currently represent one of the most important causes of absenteeism. Return to work (RTW) is a complex process influenced by a multitude of variables that determine the success of professional reintegration. The aim is to evaluate the RTW after absenteeism due to mental illness among the staff of the University Hospital Center Ibn Rochd at Casablanca and to propose recommendations.

Methods
Employees (N=44) were recruited after absenteeism due to mental illness, and completed a survey which included socio-demographic information’s, medical and work history and RTW conditions.

Results
After RTW, 2.3% of our participants changed the workstation, 6.8% changed the department, 15.9% changed the work schedule, 18.2% benefited from a job accommodation and 45.5% were satisfied.

Discussion
Many factors should be taken into account to improve successful RTW: gradual RTW, reception and support from superiors and colleagues, changes in working conditions. Early contact between occupational physicians and employees ensures that measures can be initiated before the RTW.

Conclusion
Employees should be targeted in interventions aiming to improve RTW. A prerequisite for success of the RTW process is to pursue open communication between occupational physicians and employees.
O-226 SYSTEMIC SCLERODERMA AND OCCUPATIONAL IMPACTS: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Omali Asmaa , Wifaq Kamal , Tahri Loubna , Youabd Saadia , El kholti Abdeljalil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Scleroderma is a connective tissue disease characterized by skin thickening and disabling multi-organ involvement. The hand is a prime target for scleroderma, which can have a major impact on the scleroderma worker.

Objective
Studying the impact of scleroderma on the professional activity of an office administrator

Patients and methods
This was a workstation study of a scleroderma patient and a discussion of his functional ability to fulfil his tasks.

Results
The patient was a 34-years-old office administrator. His tasks consisted of collecting documents, entering them into the system, and filing them. This activity involved keyboard work for three-quarters of his working time. The patient is being treated for severe systemic scleroderma for one year, characterized by cutaneous sclerosis in both hands, resulting in flexion of the MCP and a lack of extension of the PIP. The Quick DASH and Cochin scales indicated a moderate functional limitation, resulting in an inability to perform the tasks described above.

Discussion
Several occupational difficulties have been described in the literature for scleroderma workers, which are due to the extent of cutaneous sclerosis especially in the hands as well as the severe progressive complications of the disease. The symptoms of scleroderma can be aggravated by work, in particular by exposure to cold, physical effort and microtrauma. Our recommendations for this worker consisted in adapting his workstation and discussing the possibility of invalidity.

Conclusion
The occupational impact of scleroderma is significant. However, enhancing work conditions contribute positively to prolong the ability to remain at work as long as possible.
O-228 COMPUTERIZATION OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH MEDICAL RECORDS IN MOROCCO
Authors: Touil Soukaina , Rifak Nada 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The digital transformation in occupational health is gaining momentum thanks to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Specifically, the dematerialization of paper documents facilitates the exchange of health-related information and contributes to decision-making in this field, ultimately enhancing the quality of worker care. This work aims to describe the stages of computerizing the medical record in occupational health and safety.

Methods
The first phase involves describing the current state of medical records and analyzing the existing system in accordance with the current regulations.

Results
Subsequently, we will present a model for the process of computerizing medical records, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of digitizing these records in the field of occupational health.

Discussion
Computerizing medical records in occupational health would enable more efficient data management, facilitate employee monitoring, and enhance decision-making for targeted interventions.

Conclusion
This approach draws inspiration from the ongoing computerization of patient records in Morocco. The idea is to extend this practice to medical records related to occupational health, aiming for eventual widespread adoption in the short or medium term, following the example of other countries that have already regulated the computerization of medical records in occupational health.
O-229 SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND TRAINING IN MARITIME MEDICINE IN MOROCCO
Authors: Ghailan Tarik 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Maritime activities in Morocco constitute an important economic and social lever of the country in particular in the fishing sector. In view of this situation as well as the nature and dangerousness of work at sea, scientific research and continuing education in this discipline should be highly developed to meet the needs of maritime doctors and the expectations of seamen. The objective of this work is to identify the different sources of scientific research in maritime medicine as well as to list the main continuing training activities in this discipline.

Material and methods
This study was based on the collection of relevant data related to maritime medicine, in particular various scientific publications, administrative and official documents as well as the proceedings of various congresses and scientific events.

Results
Moroccan scientific publications numbered 22, notably in the International Maritime Health Journal. There were 7 scientific congresses in Morocco, including 2 International Hispano-Francophone Congresses all organized by the Moroccan Society of Maritime Medicine. There were also 8 fishermen’s health days, including an international one organized by the Ministry of Fisheries. In addition, more than 120 oral presentations and more than 20 posters were presented at various medical conferences including in the International Maritime Health Symposium. No specific university diploma in maritime medicine is provided in Morocco.

Discussion and Conclusion
Many efforts have been made to promote maritime medicine in Morocco, particularly in terms of scientific publications and continuing education. However, the absence of university training in this discipline in Morocco constitutes a weak point in this field.
O-230 KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES (KAP) OF AL-HOCEIMA AIRPORT STAFF ON TUBERCULOSIS
Authors: El Khaldi Mohammed , Manar Nadia , Laraqui Omar , Deschamps Frédéric , Laraqui Hossini Chakib El Houssine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Our work aimed to describe the knowledge, attitudes and practices on tuberculosis of employees at Al-Hoceima airport and to identify the associated factors.

Methodology
We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study carried out among employees of Al-Hoceima airport, based on questionnaires administered to employees through face-to-face interviews.

Results
We interviewed 253 employees, including 213 men (92%) and 40 women (8%). The average age was 31 years. They were educated in 181 cases (71.5%). 213 employees (84.1%) knew about tuberculosis, including 129 (49.5%) via the media. The main symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis mentioned were dominated by cough (75.8%). 180 (79.2%) knew that tuberculosis had a treatment. 205 employees (81%) said that pulmonary tuberculosis was fatal if left untreated. 215 cases (84.9%) said they would go to the hospital if they had a persistent cough lasting more than 15 days. Prisoners’ knowledge of tuberculosis was linked to level of education (p=0.0099)

Discussion and Conclusion
This survey shows the need to strengthen employees’ knowledge of tuberculosis in order to reduce its incidence.