bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-266 ASSOCIATION BETWEEN CHIKUNGUNYA INFECTION AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS
Authors: De Araújo Tânia Maria , Helioterio Margarete Costa , de Pinho Paloma Sousa , Werneck Guilherme Loureiro 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Objective
To analyze the association between previous Chikungunya infection and depressive symptoms among healthcare workers.

Methods
A cross-sectional study with a probabilistic sample of healthcare workers in primary and medium-complexity care settings in a municipality in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The rapid test DPP-ZDC-IgM/IgG was used to identify recent (IgM) or previous (IgG) Chikungunya virus infection. The Patient Health Questionnaire-PHQ-9 was used to assess depressive symptoms. Poisson regression with robust variance was employed to estimate prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results
A total of 392 workers participated, with 83.2% being female. The frequency of Chikungunya virus infection was 8.9%. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 22.7%. In the adjusted analysis, Chikungunya infection was positively associated with depressive symptoms (PR=2.00; 95% CI: 1.29; 3.07). Stratified analyses indicated a stronger association among males (PR=7.57; 95% CI: 1.15; 50.06) compared to females (PR=1.68; 95% CI: 1.03; 2.74).

Discussion
The findings support the hypothesis of a positive association between Chikungunya and depressive symptoms. Physiopathological mechanisms resulting from viral action, as well as emotional, behavioral, and psychosocial factors associated with the disease, may explain the findings.

Conclusion
The importance of providing mental health care to healthcare workers is reiterated.
P-267 SCALABLE CHARACTERISTICS OF COVID-19 REINFECTION AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN THE MONASTIR REGION
Authors: Hayouni Marouan , Yahia Mounira Ben , Fekih Yosra , Machghoul Samia , Merchaoui Irtyah , Amri Charfeddine , Chaari Neila , Akrout Mohamed , Henchi Adnene , Rassas Ines 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Characterizing COVID-19 reinfection is a difficult process, especially among healthcare workers due to their continuous occupational exposure. Thus, we aimed to study the prevalence and evolutionary aspects of COVID-19 reinfection among healthcare workers in the Monastir region.

Methods
This is a retrospective cross-sectional study of healthcare workers in the Monastir region who contracted at least two episodes of COVID-19 infection during the period between March 2020 and June 2022. Data collection was carried out using a multidimensional information form.

Results
Among the 1646 healthcare worker who contracted covid, 56 had the infection twice, with a prevalence of 3.4%. The majority were paramedical staff (65.1%), 81.4% of whom worked in the COVID-19 departments. The median time between the two infectious episodes was 6 months, with extremes ranging from 2 to 15 months. During the second infectious episode, which lasted significantly less than 10 days (p&lt;0.001), there was a significant reduction in the frequency of febrile states (p=0.002), respiratory signs (p&lt;0.001) and ENT signs (p=0.006). A significantly lower frequency of antibiotic use (p=0.003) and oxygen therapy (p=0.031) was observed during the second infection episode.

Discussion
Reinfection was associated with more rapid but less severe infectiousness, likely due to the presence of immune memory. It depends on age, occupation, immune response, and immune status. However, the Omicron variant represented a risk factor for reinfection, given its aggressive and rapid spread, albeit with benign clinical forms.

Conclusion
Understanding the factors associated with reinfection can help to reinforce preventive measures and guide work organization strategies.
P-272 ADVERSE EFFECTS OF SARS COV2 VACCINATION IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS: PROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: Menif Khadija El , Hsinet Jihen , Abdelmalek Rim , Khouja Nihel , Harrabi Hejer , Ismail Saloua , Baraketi Emna , Bechrifa Emna , Benzarti Aida , Kilani Badreddine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The SARS-CoV-2 vaccine was developed within a very short period of time, which created a climate of doubt about adverse effects.

Aim
Describe the adverse effects reported in the short and medium term according to the different vaccines received.

Methods
a descriptive, prospective study that included Healthcare workers of La Rabta Hospital. A printed form was given to the participants between May and September 2021. Follow up data was collected between December and January 2023.

Results
We collected the data of 280 participants, 248 had received at least one dose of the vaccine. Among the people vaccinated, 86.7% were physicians. The median age was 35 years, gender-ratio M/F=0.36. The different types of vaccines received were mRNA vaccines (64.9%), viral vector vaccines (25.1%) and inactivated virus vaccines (10%). For the first vaccine dose (D1), 63.7% had short-term adverse effects, while 50.3% had side effects for the second dose (D2). RNA vaccines (67.7%) were the most providers of adverse effects. The most reported adverse effects were pain at the injection site (D1=54.4%, D2=47%), muscle pain (D1=53.8%; D2=59%), fatigue (D1=50.6%; D2=57%) and fever (D1=32.3%; D2=37%). Furthermore, 28.2% reported medium-term adverse effects. Memory loss was the most common symptom (39.4%).

Discussion
The short-term adverse effects are polymorphic and benign. The medium-term effects are still unknown. they seem to be dominated by neuropsychological effects, in particular memory disorders.

Conclusion
A surveillance system for the adverse effects of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine must be set up in a more rigorous way to have a more in-depth knowledge of this new vaccine.
O-155 MODEL DEVELOPMENT OF WORKPLACE HEALTH PROMOTION AND RISK REDUCTION FOR INFORMAL CERAMIC WORKERS
Authors: Songkham Wanpen , Suthakorn Weeraporn , Tantranont Kunlayanee 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The informal ceramic workers are a group that is at risk because of an unsafe workplace. The objective of this participatory action research was to develop a workplace health promotion and risk reduction model for ceramic workers and to evaluate this model’s effects through the participation process.

Methods
This study was conducted in 33 small ceramic factories in Lampang Province, Thailand. The model starts with studying the situation analysis, followed by participatory planning, designing, and solving problems between healthcare providers, workers, and workplace owners. All processes were supported by community leaders. Problem-solving was conducted by providing knowledge or capacity building for self-care through appropriate media, periodically reviewing and reflecting on problems that occur during the process of solving problems, and developing a working prototype that is ready to change behavior. Then, coordinate with the owner to improve the appropriate working environment and create a forum for exchanging knowledge.

Results
The result revealed altering participants’ working behavior and lifestyle patterns, ceramic workers exhibited the outcome of building a workplace health promotion and risk reduction model. Regarding working behavior, the average behavior score for wearing PPE and adhering safe work practices was considerably higher after implementation (p-values &lt;.05). There were also statistically significant increases in the lifestyle patterns scores for stress management and physical activity/exercise (p values&lt;.05).

Conclusion
This research makes the obvious model to promote health and reduce the risk of working in a ceramic workforce. Methods and preventive measures may be applied to other small-scale enterprises.
P-282 MOTIVATED POLICY ADVICE FOR SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN BELGIUM
Authors: Pelgrims Filip , De Raeve Hilde , Boon Jan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
In Belgium, Occupational Health Services (OHS) such as IDEWE assess the global status and implementation of company prevention policies. In this study we aim to explore the strengths and bottlenecks in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Methods
Retrospective analysis of the answers to 51 predefined policy questions collected during company visits by IDEWE’s OHS professionals in over 12000 SMEs between 2016 and 2019.

Results
SMEs scored well on first aid (70%), workplace accident procedure (71%), and individual occupational health risk assessment (98%). Moreover, questions related to individual health surveillance (79%) and conducting health surveillance (73%) scored positively. On individual level, good scores were noted for provision of personal equipment (79%) and work clothing (76%). In contrast, the main bottlenecks were lack of a policy and action plan (only available in 24% and 29%, respectively), and limited availability of an inventory of dangerous substances (35%) and safety-instructions for chemicals (24%). Also questions related to risk analysis of psychosocial aspects (25%) and maternity protection (34%) had a negative score.

Conclusion
Our results correspond well with the focus of OHS in Belgian SMEs in the last 40 years, with an emphasis on individual safety and protection, including medical health surveillance. The main challenges for SMEs are implementing collective measures after risk analysis, and reporting in policy and yearly action plans. Employers often lack the necessary knowledge and skills to do so. Employers of micro-enterprises (&lt;20 employees), in particular, wish to be better supported by the government and their external OHS.
P-287 OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH IN SMALL SCALE MINING: A CASE OF INFORMAL ARTISANAL MINERS IN MOUNT DARWIN, ZIMBABWE
Authors: Matambo Farai 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Artisanal and small scale mining (ASSM) contributes 2.6% to Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Despite the significant contribution to economic growth and development, ASSM workers remain exposed to numerous work related health and safety hazards. The objectives of the study were to identify the hazards and risks in ASSM, review the arrangements for managing health and safety risks, and to assess the effectiveness of the controls in place so as to produce justified, proportionate recommendations to improve health and safety performance.

Methods
The study used a mixed method approach which included qualitative and quantitative research design with study participants being sampled using the random and purposive sampling methods. Data collection tools used included questionnaires, direct observations and interviews. The collected data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

Results
The occupational health and safety hazards associated with ASSM operations were dominated by physical hazards (50,34%), chemical (20,41%) ergonomic (19,73%), biological hazards (4,76%) and psychosocial hazards (4,76%) with potential to cause illnesses, injuries and death. These hazards were present from ore extraction to amalgamation and gold smelting processes. Lack of training on occupational safety and health was identified as a risk factor, as was established by a Chi-square test of association between training and risk exposure encountered (p=0.00&lt;0.005).

Conclusion
Training of workers is also recommended for them to be competent in identifying hazards, assessing risks and opportunities inherent to their operations. This will ensure adaption of controls that guarantees amelioration of the workplace hazards.
O-165 MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE OF WORKERS EXPOSED TO RADON: PERSPECTIVES IN LUNG CANCER PREVENTION
Authors: Giuseppe Taino , Alberto Delogu , Tiziana Gazzoldi , Pintucci Riccardo , Semborowski Luca , Azzola Ludovica , Solazzo Francesca , Papetti Samuele 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Radon is produced by the radioactive decay of Radium 226 (226Ra), in turn produced by radioactive decay of Uranium 238 (238U), found in ores such as lave, tables, granites and pozzolane. Lung cancer is still a disease with a high mortality rate responsible, worldwide, for about one in five deaths due to cancer.

Methods
The health surveillance of workers exposed to Radon is aimed at the prevention and early diagnosis of lung cancer, which represents, in Italy, the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men (15%) and the third in women (12%).

Results
At present, however, screening strategies are only offered to populations at high risk of developing the disease, as it is difficult to find a single very sensitive and highly specific biomarker.

Discussion
This situation implies that only healthy subjects are subjected to CT only after the onset of symptoms, leading thus to often late diagnosis, without a survival benefit. Currently the most promising biomarker is micro-RNA (MSC), associated with LCDT.

Conclusion
An optimization of these tools in the future and the cost-benefit ratio will open their use in early diagnosis, as well as their use in the health surveillance of those exposed to radon.
Key words: lung cancer, radon, radioprotection
O-172 OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE, RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS AND HAND ECZEMA OF NAIL ARTISTS IN SWEDEN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Gunnare Sara , Wahlkvist Helen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Nail artists are occupationally exposed to chemical hazards, e.g. products containing acrylates which may cause asthma and eczema. The aim of this study was therefore to survey occupational exposure, respiratory symptoms, and hand eczema among nail artists in Sweden.

Methods
A questionnaire focusing on occupational exposure conditions, respiratory symptoms, and hand eczema was sent to 532 nail artists in Sweden and the participation rate was 21%. The study was approved by the Regional Ethical Review Board in Stockholm.

Results
The majority of respondents (96%) had been working as nail artists for more than 2 years. More than 60% worked as nail artists at least 21 hours per week. The 12-month prevalence for respiratory symptoms and hand eczema were 51% and 24%, respectively. Every third respondent had a colleague who had changed occupations due to respiratory symptoms or eczema. All respondents seemed to use local exhaust ventilation at work. Many nail artists also used personal protective equipment (PPE), e.g. about 60% used surgical masks, 66% used rubber gloves and 14% used PVC gloves.

Discussion
Nail artists had higher incidence of respiratory symptoms and hand eczema than the general population despite the use of local exhaust ventilation. PPE was used by more than 50% of the nail artists. However, the selected PPE does not provide sufficient protection against e.g. acrylates.

Conclusion
Although several precautions had been taken by the nail artists, they seemed to be exposed to irritant and/or allergic substances, e.g. acrylates, since many of them experienced respiratory symptoms as well as hand eczema.
P-302 THE MOST WANTED OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE ACTIVITIES DURING “THE WORKING CONDITIONS ASSESSMENT” PRACTICE ESTABLISHED IN THE ROMANIAN NATIONAL FRAMEWORK STARTED IN 2017
Authors: Rapas Liliana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In 2017 the new unitary wages law was launched and implemented procedures for establishing the impact of working conditions on the workers’ health of the main “occupational families”. This labor approach to “working conditions assessment” for compensating the risks has been strengthened by the occupational medicine surveillance results.

Methods
The collaboration between the public authority, private occupational medicine providers and O.S.H. services had allowed “a business case” to be built for each applicant. The establishment of the risk factors’ packages meant for compensation was made at the behest of the applicants. These were predominantly from the local-central public administration, the veterinary medicine in 2017 and 2020, predominantly from healthcare and culture “occupational families” in 2018 and 2022 and from education, justice and healthcare in 2019 and 2021.

Results and Discussions
The occupational medicine physicians accomplished expertise based on the correlation between hazards’ measurements by accredited laboratories and the specific workplaces’ morbidity reported by the private occupational medicine doctors. The workplace health promotion is made through ergonomic recommendations, implementation of guidelines for the electromagnetic fields, courses for the infections’ prevention associated with healthcare, psychological evaluations for the neuropsychological overload and the counseling for the elimination of fears regarding the risks. These covered approximately 30% of workers with harmful or dangerous working conditions.

Conclusion
The workers from public institutions have benefited from the upgraded assessment of the working conditions, by extending the labor approach through the integration of the workers’ health approach. This ensures the correlation between the public-private preventive policies and the fair use of the financial leverage for each institutional case.
P-308 FATAL WORKPLACE ACCIDENTS
Authors: Ajmani Fatima , Belamine Fatima , Derqaoui Mohamed Amine , Abouzahir Hind , Belhouss Ahmed , Benyaich Hicham 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Workplace accidents, brief events that occur during professional activities and result in physical or psychological harm, have serious consequences for workers and the national economy. This study aims to determine the epidemiological characteristics of the victims and identify the main mechanisms involved to formulate preventive recommendations.

Materials and Methods
A retrospective descriptive study was conducted by examining the records of forensic autopsies at Ibn Rochd University Hospital in Casablanca over a ten-year period, from 2012 to 2022, including 100 cases of fatal workplace accidents.

Results
During this period, 100 fatal workplace accidents were recorded, with an average of 10 accidents per year. Men accounted for 98.03% of the victims, with an average age of 38.4 years. The majority of deaths occurred in the construction sector (48 cases). The most common accidents were falls at the workplace (71 cases) and injuries related to work activities (27 cases). One case of acute gas poisoning was also reported. The main causes of death were polytrauma (60 cases), with 2 cases of burns, one case of severe tetanus, and one case of fatal gas poisoning.

Discussion and Conclusion
Fatal workplace accidents primarily affect active men, especially in the construction, agriculture, and mechanical industry sectors. Preventing these incidents requires a comprehensive approach involving employers, employees, occupational health physicians, insurers, and legislators.
P-310 BIOMARKERS OF UV-RADIATION IN INDOOR AND OUTDOOR WORKERS
Authors: De Boer Florentine , Kezic Sanja , Van der Molen Henk 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Outdoor workers (OW) are exposed to higher doses of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) compared to indoor workers (IW), which increases their risk of developing skin cancer.

Methods and Results
Tape stripping of the stratum corneum (SC) is a non-invasive tool for identification of biomarkers that can aid in the early detection and prevention of chronic UV-related skin damage in the occupational setting. SC tape strips were collected from two different skin sites: one on less exposed skin behind the ear (E) and another from the more exposed forehead (F) skin. The study comprised of 28 IW and 30 OW. The SC levels of eight immunological markers, the ratio between cis- and trans isomers of urocanic acid (cUCA and tUCA), and the dermal texture index (DTI) as an indicator of corneocyte surface topography were measured as candidate biomarkers. Significant differences were observed between the sampling sites E and F for IL-18, IL1-RA, IL-1a the IL-1RA/IL-1a ratio, VEGF- A, MIP-1β, NMF and DTI. When comparing IW and OW, differences were found for IL-1RA/ IL-1α ratio and VEGF-A in skin (E). On the other hand, in skin (F), biomarker levels differed for CTACK, IL-1RA, MMP-9 and MIP-1β and NMF. No significant differences in DTI were observed between IW and OW irrespective of the skin site.

Discussion and Conclusion
The study revealed distinct biomarker patterns at skin sites exposed to different levels of sunlight and between IW and OW. These findings highlight the impact of chronic sun exposure on skin health. The identified biomarkers can aid in early detection and prevention of skin damage in OW.
P-318 REVISION OF PREVENTION GUIDELINES FOR NOISE DISTURBANCE PREVENTION IN JAPAN
Authors: Hibino Hiroyuki , Nagano Chikage , Inoue Jinro , Horie Seichi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The Occupational Safety and Health Regulations is obligatory to implement to prevent noise disturbance in Japan. The incident at the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Shipyard triggered the establishment: Guidelines for the Prevention of Noise Disturbances. Approximately 300 people are affected every year in all industries. The Revision of the Guidelines was necessary to match the new standard of preventing noise disturbance.

Method
We surveyed the number and rate of findings medical-checkup of noise workers based on the Guidelines in Japan.

Result
The number of noise workers undergoing health checkups increased from 273,557 to 327,315, the number of workplaces increased from 5,145 to 6,305. The rate of positive findings (pure tone hearing ≥30 dB at 4000 Hz) decreased from 14.6% to 12.6% over the past 10 years.

Discussion and conclusion
The increase in the number of people undergoing health checkups and the number of establishments over the past 10 years can be attributed to the spread of guidelines. Although the number of people with problems has decreased, the implementation rate has not been grasped, so there is a possibility of an apparent decrease, and it cannot be said that noise disturbance prevention is widespread. In addition, the old guidelines measured only 1000Hz and 4000Hz, and there is a possibility that early noise-induced hearing loss was overlooked, so the new guidelines added the measurement at 6000Hz. In addition to the conventional fixed-point measurement, personal exposure measurement will be promoted, and it is expected that the implementation rate of health checkups at business establishments will increase.
P-319 FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENTS IN A BUILDING AND PUBLIC WORKS COMPANY IN BENIN
Authors: Olou Rose Mikponhoue 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The prevalence of occupational accidents in the building and public works construction industry is high.

Objective
To determine the factors associated with work-related accidents in a construction company in Benin.

Method
This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted from September to October 2022 among workers of a road construction company. A questionnaire was administered to the workers. Data were analyzed using R software version 4.1.1. Logistic regression was used to identify associated factors with work-related accidents. The significance threshold was 5%.

Results
A total of 472 workers were included, of whom 452 (95.7%) were male, giving a sex ratio of 22.6. Mean age was 33.0 ± 8.8 years. The prevalence of work-related accidents was 50.8%. The associated factors were: absence of breaks (p=0.004 OR=1.53), job seniority &gt; 4 years (p&lt;0.001; OR=2), insufficient personal protective equipment (p= &lt;0.001 OR=4.78).

Discussion and Conclusion
In this company, it is important to train workers in the use of protective equipment, and to improve the organization of work within the company, in order to reduce the number of work-related accidents.