Showing papers in "Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine in 2023"

By Nature, We're Doers and Problem Solvers

Abstract: This research identified occupational and work-life demands due to the COVID-19 pandemic in fire-based first responders. These data empower clinicians to consider upstream primary prevention approaches to mitigate these demands and prevent secondary and tertiary outcomes that may occur if demands are not properly managed. Objective The US fire service experienced increased demands due to COVID-19. This qualitative study explored the pandemic's impact on work-life balance and safety. Methods Five interviews and 10 focus groups were conducted with 15 fire departments in the COVID-19 RAPID Mental Health Assessment. Coding and multilevel content analysis were conducted in NVivo. Results Four department support themes were identified: emotional/social (33.1%), policy (28.4%), instrumental (22.9%), and informational (15.5%). Four work-life balance themes were identified: life (51.2%), children (18.1%), physiological (16.5%), and work (14.2%). We observed more departmental resources to help mitigate job demands within the work environment compared with those for work-life demands. Conclusions Job resources are needed to mitigate demands and improve safety culture and mental well-being of the fire service under normal conditions, and for the next pandemic, natural disaster, or long-term emergency.

COVID-19 Clusters and Outbreaks among Non-Healthcare, Non-Congregate Workers in Chicago, Illinois: Surveillance through the First Omicron Wave.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To describe COVID-19 investigations by a large urban health department among non-healthcare, non-congregate workplaces, and the utility of surveillance methods over time. METHODS Frequencies of workplace-associated clusters and outbreaks are described by workplace type, workforce size, and method of identification over time. RESULTS From April 2020 through January 2022, n = 496 COVID-19 investigations identified 442 clusters (89%) and 54 outbreaks (11%). Frontline essential workplaces comprised 36% of investigations before, versus 15% after vaccine eligibility. Pre-Omicron, most investigations (84%) were identified through case interviews. During Omicron predominance, case interviews decreased dramatically and identified 10% of investigations. Offices (41%) and bars and restaurants (36%) were overrepresented, and only 1 outbreak was identified, given decreases in confirmatory testing. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that vaccine prioritization reduced COVID-19 burden among highest-risk workplaces, but surveillance methods likely became less representative over time.

The Combined Effect of Elevated Blood Pressure and Occupational Noise Exposure on Bilateral High-Frequency Hearing Loss

Abstract: Combined effect of elevated blood pressure and occupational noise exposure on hearing loss have rarely been evaluated among Chinese population.This cross-sectional study was conducted in 242,811 participants. Logistic regression model was performed to estimate the independent and combined associations.Compared with participants without occupational noise exposure, the risk of bilateral high-frequency hearing loss (BHFHL) was significantly higher for noise exposure 10 years or more (odds ratio [OR] = 1.29, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.23-1.35). Compared with no hypertension, participants with grade 1 hypertension had higher risk of BHFHL in all age groups (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.09-1.20). As to the combined effect, the highest BHFHL risk was found in males (OR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.37-1.67), especially among participants with grade 1 hypertension older than 50 years (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.46-1.88).Elevated blood pressure may synergistically influence hearing loss combined with occupational noise exposure.

Occupational Years of Service and Leukocyte Epigenetic Aging

Abstract: Our findings demonstrate that epigenetic age measures may reflect the impacts of occupational firefighter exposures and suggest that these markers may be useful for tracking the health status of firefighters throughout their careers. Future work with more specific occupational exposure classification will help improve our understanding of these complex relationships. Objective The aim of the study is to examine associations between years of firefighting service and eight chronological age-adjusted measures of blood leukocyte epigenetic age acceleration: Horvath, Hannum, SkinBloodClock, Intrinsic, Extrinsic, PhenoAge, GrimAge, and DNAm telomere length. Methods The study used a repeated measures analysis of data from 379 incumbent firefighters from eight career departments and 100 recruit firefighters from two of the departments, across the United States. Results Incumbent firefighters had on average greater epigenetic age acceleration compared with recruit firefighters, potentially due to the cumulative effect of occupational exposures. However, among incumbent firefighters, additional years of service were associated with epigenetic age deceleration, particularly for GrimAge, a strong predictor of mortality. Conclusions Long-term studies with more specific occupational exposure classification are needed to better understand the relationship between years of service and aging biomarkers.

COVID-19 Clusters and Outbreaks among Non-Healthcare, Non-Congregate Workers in Chicago, Illinois: Surveillance through the First Omicron Wave

Abstract: To describe COVID-19 investigations by a large urban health department among non-health care, noncongregate workplaces and the utility of surveillance methods over time.Frequencies of workplace-associated clusters and outbreaks are described by workplace type, workforce size, and method of identification over time.From April 2020 through January 2022, 496 COVID-19 investigations identified 442 clusters (89%) and 54 outbreaks (11%). Frontline essential workplaces comprised 36% of investigations before versus 15% after vaccine eligibility. Pre-Omicron, most investigations (84%) were identified through case interviews. During Omicron predominance, case interviews decreased dramatically and identified 10% of investigations. Offices (41%) and bars and restaurants (36%) were overrepresented, and only one outbreak was identified, given decreases in confirmatory testing.Findings suggest that vaccine prioritization reduced COVID-19 burden among highest-risk workplaces, but surveillance methods likely became less representative over time.

Long-term cardiovascular health effects of Intelligent Physical Exercise Training among office workers – 2-years follow-up of a randomised controlled trial

Abstract: Objective To assess long-term effects of Intelligent Physical Exercise Training (IPET) on cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) and cardiometabolic measures. Methods Office workers were randomised to a control group (CG, n = 194) or a training group (TG, n = 193). TG received 1-h weekly IPET during paid working hours for two years and recommendations to perform 30 min leisure time physical activity six days/week (LPA). Results TG compared to CG demonstrated a significantly larger increase in VO2max of 0.13 ± 0.06 l/min and improved cardiometabolic measures at 1-year follow-up that were maintained at 2-years follow-up, with larger increases in VO2max among high-adherence participants. Conclusion IPET and LPA showed the potential for long-term improved VO2max and cardiometabolic measures. These findings emphasise the effectiveness of integrating IPET during paid working hours, and the significance of adherence to training was underlined.

Working Alone and/or in Remote Locations

Abstract: Providers caring for workers in the oil and gas extraction industry can reduce the risks of workplace sudden cardiovascular events and death by helping the employer with, 1) promoting evidence-based chronic disease interventions, 2) controlling hazardous exposures, 3) conducting periodic medical evaluations, 4) ensuring an automated external defibrillator (AED) is onsite and employees are trained in its use, and 5) ensuring that employees are not working alone. Objective The aim of the study is to explore personal and work factors related to fatal cardiac events among oil and gas extraction (OGE) workers. Methods The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Fatalities in Oil and Gas Extraction database was reviewed to identify fatal cardiac events among OGE workers from 2014 through 2019. A case series design was used to review case files, provide descriptive statistics, and summarize the findings. Results There were 75 fatalities identified, including 55 (73%) with sufficient information for review. Of the 55 workers, 18 (33%) worked alone. Thirty-six fatal cardiac events (66%) were unwitnessed by a coworker. Toxicology findings suggested some possible exposures to hydrogen sulfide or hydrocarbon gases or vapors. Missing data were common. Conclusions This study identified the need for cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment, emergency preparedness, lone worker programs, medical screening, and enhanced exposure control in the OGE industry.

Occupational Years of Service and Leukocyte Epigenetic Aging: Relationships in United States Firefighters

Abstract: The aim of the study is to examine associations between years of firefighting service and eight chronological age-adjusted measures of blood leukocyte epigenetic age acceleration: Horvath, Hannum, SkinBloodClock, Intrinsic, Extrinsic, PhenoAge, GrimAge, and DNAm telomere length.The study used a repeated measures analysis of data from 379 incumbent firefighters from eight career departments and 100 recruit firefighters from two of the departments, across the United States.Incumbent firefighters had on average greater epigenetic age acceleration compared with recruit firefighters, potentially due to the cumulative effect of occupational exposures. However, among incumbent firefighters, additional years of service were associated with epigenetic age deceleration, particularly for GrimAge, a strong predictor of mortality.Long-term studies with more specific occupational exposure classification are needed to better understand the relationship between years of service and aging biomarkers.

The Association Between Shift Work Exposure and Frailty Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Abstract: Circadian disruption due to shift work may contribute significantly and act as preliminary markers for frailty. Gender difference in risk of frailty supports the significance of considering gender when addressing frailty and targeting interventions in old age. As population ages, increased awareness of shift work may contribute to better health outcomes. Objective To investigate the association between shift work exposure and frailty. Methods Longitudinal secondary data analyses were performed using Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. Individuals aged 45 to 85 years were included at baseline (N = 47,740). Primary shift work (SW) variables were derived at baseline: ever exposed to SW, SW exposure in longest job, and SW exposure in current job. Multinomial regression models were constructed to evaluate the association between SW and frailty at 3 years of follow-up. Results Participants ever exposed to SW were associated with frailty compared with those who worked only daytime. Particularly, females worked in rotating shifts in their longest jobs were more likely to be classified as frail compared with those who worked only daytime. Conclusions This study suggests that SW may play a role in development of frailty and this warrants further investigation.

Long-term cardiovascular health effects of Intelligent Physical Exercise Training among office workers - 2-years follow-up of a randomised controlled trial.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To assess long-term effects of Intelligent Physical Exercise Training (IPET) on cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) and cardiometabolic measures. METHODS Office workers were randomised to a control group (CG, n = 194) or a training group (TG, n = 193). TG received 1-h weekly IPET during paid working hours for two years and recommendations to perform 30 min leisure time physical activity six days/week (LPA). RESULTS TG compared to CG demonstrated a significantly larger increase in VO2max of 0.13 ± 0.06 l/min and improved cardiometabolic measures at 1-year follow-up that were maintained at 2-years follow-up, with larger increases in VO2max among high-adherence participants. CONCLUSION IPET and LPA showed the potential for long-term improved VO2max and cardiometabolic measures. These findings emphasise the effectiveness of integrating IPET during paid working hours, and the significance of adherence to training was underlined.

Fatalities Involving Substance Use Among US Oil and Gas Extraction Workers Identified Through an Industry Specific Surveillance System (2014–2019)

Abstract: Mitigating substance use related risks is imperative in preventing worker morbidity and mortality. This is especially important in workers in safety sensitive positions, such as those in the oil and gas industry, where impairment not only compromises their safety but the safety of those around them. Objective Characteristics of oil and gas extraction (OGE) work, including long hours, shiftwork, fatigue, physically demanding work, and job insecurity are risk factors for substance use among workers. Limited information exists examining worker fatalities involving substance use among OGE workers. Methods The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s Fatalities in Oil and Gas Extraction database was screened for fatalities involving substance use from 2014 through 2019. Results Twenty-six worker deaths were identified as involving substance use. Methamphetamine or amphetamine was the most common substances (61.5%) identified. Other contributing factors were lack of seatbelt use (85.7%), working in high temperatures (19.2%), and workers’ first day with the company (11.5%). Conclusions Employer recommendations to mitigate substance use–related risks in OGE workers include training, medical screening, drug testing, and workplace supported recovery programs.

A Comprehensive Sampling Study on SARS-CoV-2 Contamination of Air and Surfaces in a Large Meat Processing Plant Experiencing COVID-19 Clusters in June 2020

Abstract: Comprehensive environmental sampling showed limited SARS-CoV-2 contamination of air and surfaces in a meat processing plant, despite a large proportion of workers testing SARS-CoV-2 positive. A strict COVID-19 policy was in place, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 transmission may be controlled in meat processing plants by enforcing appropriate preventive and mitigation measures. Objective We aimed to assess SARS-CoV-2 contamination of air and surfaces to gain insight into potential occupational exposure in a large meat processing plant experiencing COVID-19 clusters. Methods: Oro-nasopharyngeal SARS-CoV-2 screening was performed in 76 workers. Environmental samples (n = 275) including air, ventilation systems, sewage, and swabs of high-touch surfaces and workers' hands were tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: Twenty-seven (35.5%) of the (predominantly asymptomatic) workers tested positive with modest to low viral loads (cycle threshold ≥ 29.7). Six of 203 surface swabs, 1 of 12 personal air samples, and one of four sewage samples tested positive; other samples tested negative. Conclusions: Although one third of workers tested positive, environmental contamination was limited. Widespread SARS-CoV-2 transmission via air and surfaces was considered unlikely within this plant at the time of investigation while strict COVID-19 control measures were already implemented.

By Nature, We're Doers and Problem Solvers

Abstract: Objective The U.S. fire service experienced increased demands due to COVID-19. This qualitative study explored the pandemic’s impact on work-life balance and safety. Methods Five interviews and 10 focus groups were conducted with 15 fire departments in the COVID-19 RAPID Mental Health Assessment. Coding and multi-level content analysis were conducted in NVivo. Results Four department support themes were identified: Emotional/Social (33.1%), Policy (28.4%), Instrumental (22.9%), and Informational (15.5%). Four work-life balance themes were identified: Life (51.2%), Children (18.1%), Physiological (16.5%), and Work (14.2%). We observed more departmental resources to help mitigate job demands within the work environment compared to those for work-life demands. Conclusions Job resources are needed to mitigate demands and improve safety culture and mental well-being of the fire service under normal conditions, and for the next pandemic, natural disaster, or long-term emergency.

Survival and Disease Burden Analysis of Occupational Pneumoconiosis From 1956 to 2021 in Jiangsu Province

Abstract: The aims of the study are to investigate the survival status and its influencing factors of pneumoconiosis patients and to analyze the disease burden and its trend in Jiangsu Province.We used the life table and Cox model to analyze the survival status. The disease burden and its temporal trend were examined using the disability-adjusted life years (DALY).The average survival time was 16.22 ± 10.11 years. First diagnosis age, first diagnosis stage, and upgrade of stages were crucial risk factors for the survival. The cumulative DALY was 154,500.83 person-years. The DALY attributed to silicosis, coal worker pneumoconiosis, and welder's pneumoconiosis were 99,806.72 (64.60%), 35,483.21 (22.97%), and 37,85.83 (2.45%) person-years, respectively.Although the disease burden of pneumoconiosis is decreasing because of the implementation of relevant health policies and improved medical standards, the prevention and control of pneumoconiosis still need greater attention.

The Association Between Shift Work Exposure and Frailty Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Abstract: Circadian disruption due to shift work may contribute significantly and act as preliminary markers for frailty. Gender difference in risk of frailty supports the significance of considering gender when addressing frailty and targeting interventions in old age. As population ages, increased awareness of shift work may contribute to better health outcomes. Objective To investigate the association between shift work exposure and frailty. Methods Longitudinal secondary data analyses were performed using Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. Individuals aged 45 to 85 years were included at baseline (N = 47,740). Primary shift work (SW) variables were derived at baseline: ever exposed to SW, SW exposure in longest job, and SW exposure in current job. Multinomial regression models were constructed to evaluate the association between SW and frailty at 3 years of follow-up. Results Participants ever exposed to SW were associated with frailty compared with those who worked only daytime. Particularly, females worked in rotating shifts in their longest jobs were more likely to be classified as frail compared with those who worked only daytime. Conclusions This study suggests that SW may play a role in development of frailty and this warrants further investigation.

Prevention of Laboratory Animal Allergy and Impact of COVID-19 on Prevention Programs in the United States

Abstract: Laboratory animal allergy (LAA) is common and preventable. This study provides a 10-year update on LAA prevention programs in the United States and the effect of COVID-19 on prevention practices.An electronic survey was e-mailed to designated institutional officials at laboratory animal facilities identified by the National Institutes of Health Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare. Results were compared with the prior survey.A total of 141 institutions employing 58,224 laboratory animal workers responded. Results were similar to the prior survey with wide variation in practices. Medical surveillance increased (58%-71%), but N95 respirator use decreased (17%-13%). As before, only 25% of institutions knew their LAA incidence and prevalence rates. COVID-19 had a small time-limited effect on personal protective equipment use.Universal use of evidence-based practices and improved medical surveillance would provide greater worker protection from LAA.

On the Frontlines in Shanghai

Abstract: COVID-19 (COronaVIrus Disease-19) control measure stringency, including testing, has been among the highest globally in China. Psychosocial impact on pandemic workers in Shanghai and their pandemic-related attitudes were investigated.Participants in this cross-sectional study were health care providers (HCPs) and other pandemic workers. A Mandarin online survey was administered between April and June 2022 during the omicron-wave lockdown. The Perceived Stress Scale and Maslach Burnout Inventory were administered.Eight hundred eighty-seven workers participated, of which 691 (77.9%) were HCPs. They were working 6.25 ± 1.24 days per week for 9.77 ± 4.28 hours per day. Most participants were burned out, with 143 (16.1%) moderately and 98 (11.0%) seriously. The Perceived Stress Scale score was 26.85 ± 9.92 of 56, with 353 participants (39.8%) having elevated stress. Many workers perceived benefits: cohesive relationships (n = 581 [65.5%]), resilience (n = 693 [78.1%]), and honor (n = 747 [84.2%]). In adjusted analyses, those perceiving benefits showed significantly less burnout (odds ratio, 0.573; 95% confidence interval, 0.411 to 0.799), among other correlates.Pandemic work, including among non-HCPs, is highly stressful, but some can derive benefits.

Burn Pit Exposure Assessment to Support a Cohort Study of US Veterans of the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan

Abstract: Although studies have shown that veterans deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan have increased risk of respiratory health effects, few have focused on burn pits, despite ongoing concerns of veterans. This exposure assessment of 109 Iraq and Afghanistan bases found only 14.5% of the 475,326 veterans had no burn pit exposure. Objective For a cohort study of veterans' health conditions, we conducted an exposure assessment for 109 bases in Iraq and Afghanistan and 17 outside transit site bases. Methods The Department of Defense records were used to determine burn pit usage and waste disposal methods for each base in each year during the period of 2001 to 2014. Results In the final cohort of 475,326 veterans, who had more than 80% of their deployment time characterized by our exposure matrix, only 14.5% were found to have no burn pit exposure. The 2009 Department of Defense regulations on burn pits did produce changes in waste segregation, as well as adding incineration and local disposal of waste. Conclusion Most Iraq and Afghanistan veterans were stationed on bases that had burn pits, although the contents disposed of in the burn pits changed over time.

COVID-19 and Lifetime Experiences of Trauma, Moral Injury, and Institutional Betrayal among Healthcare Providers

Abstract: Objective To increase understanding regarding healthcare provider experiences with psychological trauma, moral injury and institutional betrayal, both over the lifetime and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The study employed a cross-sectional design to understand traumatic experiences, moral injury, and institutional betrayal among medical and mental health providers. Participants were asked to identify an index trauma, and experiences were coded qualitatively using categories for traumatic events, moral injury, and institutional betrayal. Results Results revealed that experiences of trauma, moral injury, and institutional betrayal were common in relation to the pandemic, as were pre-pandemic histories of traumatic exposures. Findings indicate that trauma exposure was a work hazard for healthcare providers during the pandemic, which could result in negative long-term mental health outcomes. Conclusions Future research is needed to explore potential long-term negative outcomes among healthcare providers.

Comparison of finger, hand, and wrist injuries in the U.S. Air Force to U.S. workers

Abstract: Objective Fingers, hands, and wrists (FHW) are the most frequently injured body parts in work-related injuries. This study described and compared FHW injuries among enlisted, officer, and civilian U.S. Air Force (USAF) personnel to those in the U.S. workforce. Methods All work-related, non-combat FHW injuries (>1 lost workday) and demographics among USAF personnel and U.S. workforce (2008-2018) were included. USAF FHW injury rates were age-adjusted to the U.S. employment and compared by gender, source, event, and nature of the injuries. Results FHW injuries were significantly lower among the USAF personnel and among females. In both populations FHW injuries from falls were higher and increased with age group among females. Males had higher overall FHW injuries from contact with objects and equipment. Conclusions Prevention efforts should focus on understanding risk factors and sharing successful prevention activities.

Application Of A Mathematical Method To Assess Associations Between Work Exposures And Severe Back And Hand Pain Using Job Exposure Matrices In The Constances Cohort

Abstract: DELTREIL, GUILLAUME PhD*; TARDIVEL, PATRICK PhD; GRACZYK, PIOTR PhD; ESCOBAR-BACH, MIKAEL PhD; FADEL, MARC MD; DESCATHA, ALEXIS MD* Author Information

More or less job performance in an insecure job? A study on the relationship between job insecurity and in-role and extra-role performance

Abstract: To gain insight into the complex relationship between job insecurity and in-role and extra-role performance. Autonomous work motivation is investigated as a mediator in this relationship. The quality of the employee-supervisor relationship (LMX) is investigated as a moderator between job insecurity and autonomous work motivation.Cross-sectional data were collected by online surveys among 206 Dutch and Belgian employees. Multiple regression analyses were performed to test the hypotheses.Job insecurity was negatively associated with both in-role and extra-role performance. Autonomous work motivation mediated the negative relationship between job insecurity and in-role and extra-role performance. LMX did not moderate the negative relationship between job insecurity and autonomous work motivation.Organizations need to prevent job insecurity and limit the negative consequences of job insecurity for sustaining employees' autonomous work motivation and job performance.

The Well-being of Brazilian Industry Workers on Returning to the Physical Workplace During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract: Among industry workers returning to their physical workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic, some groups require special attention to their well-being, such as women, those working from home or on a hybrid working model, as well as workers with a comorbid disorder or living with someone with any comorbidity. Objective Our aim was to assess the prevalence and predictors of well-being among Brazilian industry workers on returning to the physical workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Two thousand two hundred forty-one participants completed an online survey between October and November 2021. Well-being was assessed with the World Health Organization Well-being Index, and the questionnaire also addressed sociodemographic and occupational characteristics and the health of workers and their contacts. Associations were estimated with logistic regression models. Results The prevalence of adequate well-being was 63.15%. The predictors of poor well-being included being female, younger, working exclusively from home or on a hybrid model, having comorbid disorders, and living with someone with any comorbidity. Conclusions The identification of vulnerable groups with poor well-being may help organizations to direct efforts to the unmet psychological needs of these employees and develop well-being programs during this transition.

Productivity loss of temporary work absenteeism due to COVID-19 and its determinant factors in northeastern Iran

Abstract: Objective This study aimed to estimate the lost productivity cost of temporary work absenteeism due to COVID-19. Methods This study conducted on all hospitalized patients with covid-19 in northeastern Iran between February 2020 and March 2022 (10,406 cases). Data were collected from the Hospital Information System (HIS). Indirect costs were estimated using the Human Capital Approach (HCA). Data were analyzed with the STATA version 17. Results The total indirect cost of work absenteeism due to COVID-19 was estimated at $513,688. There was a statistically significant relationship between the mean lost productivity cost and COVID-19 peak, gender, insurance type, age and hospitalization. Conclusions Since the absenteeism costs of COVID-19 had increased in the second peak, which coincided with the summer holidays, the country's crisis management headquarters should pay more attention to formulating and implementing appropriate preventive programs in future epidemics.

Addressing Psychosocial, Organizational, and Environmental Stressors Emerging From the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Effect on Essential Workers' Mental Health and Well-being

Abstract: Stress has taken a heavy toll on essential workers’ physical and emotional health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Armed with an understanding of what psychosocial, organizational, and environmental factors are significant contributors to, or mitigators of, stress, employers can take steps to effectively protect and promote employee health and wellbeing. Objective: This study aimed to identify stressors faced by essential workers amid the coronavirus disease pandemic and effective interventions mitigating these stressors. Methods: We reviewed literature on psychosocial, organizational, and environmental stressors faced by essential workers during the pandemic, the consequences of those stressors, and interventions to improve worker health and well-being. Findings: Stressors included elevated risk of coronavirus disease 2019 exposure, fear of spreading the virus, lack of social and organizational supports, and financial insecurity. Negative outcomes included burnout, depression, and high turnover. Promising interventions included robust safety protocols, increased wages, childcare benefits, enhanced access to mental health services, and frequent leadership communications. Conclusion: Stress has taken a heavy toll on essential workers' physical and emotional health, productivity, and job satisfaction. To effectively protect Total Worker Health, employers should adopt evidence-based interventions promoting psychosocial, organizational, and environmental health and safety.

The State of Health, Burnout, Healthy Behaviors, Workplace Wellness Support and Concerns of Medication Errors in Pharmacists During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract: To describe the well-being and lifestyle behaviors of health-system pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic and to determine the relationships among well-being, perceptions of workplace wellness support, and self-reported concern of having made a medication error.Pharmacist (N = 10,445) were randomly sampled for a health and well-being survey. Multiple logistic regression assessed associations with wellness support and concerns of medication error.The response rate was 6.4% (N = 665). Pharmacists whose workplaces very much supported wellness were 3x more likely to have no depression, anxiety, and stress; 10x more likely to have no burnout; and 15x more likely to have a higher professional quality of life. Those with burnout had double the concern of having made a medication error in the last three months.Healthcare leadership must fix system issues that cause burnout and actualize wellness cultures to improve pharmacist well-being.

Benefits and Challenges of Transitioning Occupational Health to an Enterprise Electronic Health Record

Abstract: Objective Occupational health (OH) documentation has traditionally been separate from health system electronic health records (EHRs), but this can create patient safety and care continuity challenges. Herein we describe outcomes and challenges of such integration including how one health system managed compliance with laws, regulations and ethical principles concerning digital privacy. Methods OH integration with the enterprise EHR at the University of California San Diego Health was started in June 2021 and completed in December 2021. Results Integrating with the enterprise EHR allowed for a secure telehealth system, faster visit times, digitization of questionnaires medical clearance forms, as well as improved reporting capabilities. Conclusions Integration and interoperability are fundamental building blocks to any OH EHR solution, and will allow for evaluation of worker population trends, and targeted interventions to improve worker health status.

Association Between Night Shift and Hypertension

Abstract: We focused on the association between night shift and hypertension. Hypertension is a common chronic disease and a major contributor to the global disease burden. Shift work is becoming more and more popular in modern industrial society. Therefore, it is important to explore the impact of night shift on hypertension. Objective The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of night-shift work on the risk of hypertension for improving workers' health. Methods A total of 10,038 Chinese participants were constituted in the cross-sectional study. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline were used to estimate the effect of night shift on hypertension. Results There were higher odds of having hypertension in any night-shift workers (odds ratio [OR], 1.16 [95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.30]) when compared with day workers. Having 5 to 10 night shifts per month were significantly more likely to be hypertensive (OR, 1.19 [95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.38]). The OR for hypertension increased as the number of night shifts increased as the result of the restricted cubic spline. Conclusions Our results support the hypothesis that night shift is associated with an elevated risk of hypertension.

Measuring the Health Related Quality of Life and Economic Burden of Illness Among Migrant Workers With Pneumoconiosis

Abstract: In Brief Objective The aim of the study is to evaluate the living status of migrant workers with pneumoconiosis (MWP) in China with regard to health-related quality of life (QOL) and economic burden of illness. Methods An on-site investigation of 685 respondents in 7 provinces is conducted. Quality of life scores are derived using the self-made scale, and human capital method and disability-adjusted life year are applied to value the economic loss. Multiple linear regression and K-means clustering analysis are performed for further investigation. Results Respondents have an overall lower QOL of 64.85 ± 7.04 and significant average loss of Ұ344.5 thousand per capita, where age and provincial heterogeneity generally exist. Pneumoconiosis stage and assistance condition are 2 significant predictors affecting MWP’s living conditions. Conclusions The evaluation of QOL and economic loss would contribute to the formulation of targeted countermeasures for MWP to enhance their well-being. Research findings suggest that targeted countermeasures for migrant workers with pneumoconiosis to enhance their quality of life and eliminate the economic burden await to be taken, while highlighting the role of impeding the progress of pneumoconiosis and increasing social assistance, and based on patients’ different sociodemographic, family, and health-related characteristics.