Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Chang Yoon Kim

13 Articles

The Concentration of Cadmium in Urine, and Its Role in Health-risk Assessment of Residents in the Vicinity of Abandoned Mines in Gyeongsangbuk-do, Korea: Sung Ho Yun, Chang Yoon Kim, Tae Yoon Hwang, Kyu Chang Won, Jun Young Do, Se Jin Lee, Yeong Mog Park, Kwan Soo Jun, Gae Ho Lee, Do Young Lee, Kwang Seub Park, Joon Sakong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2010;22(3):251-261. Published online September 30, 2010; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2010.22.3.251

OBJECTIVES
This study was conducted to assess the concentration of urine cadmium and health risks of residents in the vicinity of abandoned metal mines in Gyeongsangbuk-do.
METHODS
The concentration of cadmium in the soil, water, and agricultural crops was measured in Gyeongsangbuk-do, Butdeun and Suksan, which have abandoned metal mines. We measured the concentration of cadmium in the urine of residents from the following areas: 78 from village A, 99 from village C and 147 from control areas. Other health-risk assessments were performed on each resident, such as measuring the concentration of beta2-MG and a bone density test.
RESULTS
In abandoned mine areas, the mean concentration of cadmium was higher in agricultural soil and in the crops than in that of control areas. The concentration of cadmium in the stream exceeded the guideline level. In regard to provisional tolerable daily intake (PTDI) of cadmium, the actual intake rate through crops was 33.81%, 72.74% in abandoned mine areas and 5.03%, 6.16% in control areas. Residents in abandoned mine areas, A village and C village had a geometric mean of urine Cd of 1.90 microgram/g cr and 1.45 microgram/g cr. These measurements were significantly higher than those of residents in control areas, B village and D village, 0.59 microgram/g cr and 0.65 microgram/g cr (p<0.01). Following adjustments for age, sex, smoking habit, and occupational history, the concentration of urine cadmium of residents in the Butdeun abandoned meta mine was higher by 1.62 microgram/g cr as compared with the control group (p<0.01). Residents from the Suksan abandoned metal mine also had a higher concentration by 1.07 microgram/g cr (p<0.01). A multiple linear regression analysis was performed for the factors associated with T-score, and this showed that the concentration of urine cadmium was not an influential factor.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on these measurements, areas with abandoned metal mines contaminated streams, agricultural soil, and crops of the adjacent areas, with cadmium. Because residents in the adjacent areas intake contaminated crops, their urine cadmium was increased. Despite a lack of evidence demonstrating the detrimental effect of increased urine cadmium in residents, an additional study is needed to assess the health risks of residents in the vicinity of abandoned metal mines.

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Association between levels of exposure to heavy metals and renal function indicators of residents in environmentally vulnerable areas
Jung-Yeon Kwon, Seungho Lee, Ulziikhishig Surenbaatar, Hyoun-Ju Lim, Byoung-Gwon Kim, Sang-Yong Eom, Yong Min Cho, Woo Jin Kim, Byeng-Chul Yu, Kwan Lee, Young-Seoub Hong
Scientific Reports.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Chronic Exposure to Lead and Cadmium in Residents Living near a Zinc Smelter
HyeJeong Jo, GeunBae Kim, JunYoung Chang, Kwan Lee, ChulWoo Lee, BoEun Lee
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(4): 1731. CrossRef
A study on the correlation between upper airway diseases and urinary heavy metals concentration in household residents
Jihee Choi, Yujin Oh, Yunjae Kim, Munseob Ahn, Ji Young Im, Chung Soo Lee, Heejin Park, Moo-Kyun Park, Bu-Soon Son
Journal of Odor and Indoor Environment.2018; 17(1): 78. CrossRef
Comparative Analysis of Offensive Odorants in Urine Samples in Relation to Sample Treatment Conditions
Min-Hee Lee, Yong-Hyun Kim, Sang-Hee Jo, Si-On Choi, Inyoung Sa, Ki-Hyun Kim
Journal of Korean Society for Atmospheric Environment.2014; 30(5): 492. CrossRef

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The Effects of Indoor Air Quality on the Neurobehavioral Performance of Elementary School Children: Dae Seop Kim, Sun Ju Kim, Si Young Park, Man Joong Jeon, Gyu Tae Kim, Chang Yoon Kim, Jong Hak Chung, Sung Ok Baek, Joon Sakong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2007;19(1):65-72. Published online March 31, 2007; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2007.19.1.65

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OBJECTIVES
Most studies on the indoor air quality of newly built schools have focused only on the number of schools exceeding a standard or on subjective symptoms, such as sneezing, irritated eyes and an irritated nose. However, there has been no report on how poor indoor air quality affects children's academic performance. This study evaluated the effects of indoor air quality on the neurobehavioral performance of elementary school children.
METHODS
This study measured the indoor air pollutants and compared children's performance, using a computerized neurobehavioral test, between a newly built and a 12-year-old school. In addition, a questionnaire was administered regarding the indoor air quality related symptoms of children in a newly built and a 12-year-old school.
RESULTS
In the newly built school, the formaldehyde levels in the 1st and 4th classes with an open window were 34.6 and 27.3 microgram/m3, respectively. The levels in the 1st and 4th classes with the window closed were 80.2 and 127.1 microgram/m3, respectively. In the 12-year-old school, the formaldehyde levels in 1st and 4th class with open and closed window were 12.6 and 7.5 microgram/m3, and 19.8 and 25.2 microgram/m3, respectively. With respect to total volatile organic compounds, the levels in the 1st and 4th classes with the window open in the newly built school were 87.2 and 428.2 microgram/m3, respectively. In the 1st and 4th classes with the window closed, the total volatile organic compounds were 1,283.5 and 1,715.4 microgram/m3, respectively. In the 12-year-old school, the total volatile organic compounds were 240.9 and 150.8 microgram/m3, and 371.9 and 448.0 microgram/m3 in the 1st and 4th classes, respectively. In the case of a newly built school, the performance of the students in the neurobehavioral test in the 4th class with the window closed was 8.3% lower than for those in the 1st class with the window closed, but was only 5.9% lower when the windows were open. There was a statistical significant difference in the total numbers of symptoms between the two schools.
CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest a proper evaluation of the indoor air quality within schools is required into both the level of contamination and the health effects of these contaminants toward children.

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Performance assessment on the Korean Computerized Neurobehavioral Test using a mobile device and a conventional computer: an experimental study
Young Seok Byun, Sung Kyu Park, Joon Sakong, Man Joong Jeon
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef
Occupational Neurologic Disorders in Korea
Yangho Kim, Kyoung Sook Jeong, Yong-Hun Yun, Myoung-Soon Oh
Journal of Clinical Neurology.2010; 6(2): 64. CrossRef

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The Health Effects of Formaldehyde during an Anatomy Dissection Course: Si Young Park, Chang Yoon Kim, Joo Young Kim, Joon Sakong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2006;18(3):171-178. Published online September 30, 2006; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2006.18.3.171

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OBJECTIVES
This study evaluated the acute health effect of formaldehyde during an anatomy dissection course.
METHODS
The formaldehyde concentrations in a gross anatomy laboratory were measured and analyzed during an anatomy dissection course attended by eighty medical students. The Pulmonary Function Test and three tests of the Korean Computerized Neurobehavioral Test (digit classification, digit addition and symbol digit) were given to thirty of the eighty medical students at the pre- and post-exposure. A questionnaire survey was administered to the eighty medical students at the pre- and post-exposure.
RESULTS
The differences in the mean FVC and FEV(1) were statistically significant (p<0.01) at the preand post-exposure. In the low exposed group (<2 ppm), only the decreases in FEV(1) on post-exposure were statistically significant (p<0.05) compared with FEV(1) on pre-exposure. In the high exposed group (> or = 2 ppm), decreases in both FVC and FEV(1) on post-exposure were statistically significant (p<0.05). The overall performance on the digit classification, digit addition and symbol digit of the Korean Computerized Neurobehavioral Test on post-exposure was lower than that on pre-exposure. In the low exposed group, the performances on the digit classification and symbol digit were lower than those on pre-exposure. In the high exposed group, the performances on digit classification, digit addition and symbol digit were lower than those on pre-exposure. Complaints involving the eyes, nose and throat increased substantially on post-practice compared with pre-practice in both groups. There were statistically significant differences in the complaints involving the eyes, nose and throat between the pre-practice and post-practice in both groups (p<0.05). There were more complaints in the high exposed group than in the low exposed group.
CONCLUSIONS
Formaldehyde exposure during a dissection can decrease the pulmonary function and neurobehavioral performance, and can increase the complaints involving the eyes, nose and throat. The effect on the symptoms, pulmonary function and neurobehavioral performance is positively correlated with the formaldehyde level.

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Safety and Management Status of Anatomical Labs in Medical Schools
Jae-Hee Park, Kwang-Rak Park, An-Na Bae, Han-Gyu Jeong, Jae-Ho Lee
Keimyung Medical Journal.2022; 41(2): 76. CrossRef
Does formaldehyde have a causal association with nasopharyngeal cancer and leukaemia?
Soon-Chan Kwon, Inah Kim, Jaechul Song, Jungsun Park
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef
The effect of formaldehyde on neurobehavioral performance of student during cadaver dissection
Yong Sakong, Hee-Yoon Jo, In-Gook Lee, Kyeong-Soo Lee, Man-Joong Jun
Yeungnam University Journal of Medicine.2016; 33(2): 85. CrossRef
A Review on Chemical Exposure and Related Health Risks in Laboratory Workers
Hyae-Jeong Byun, Jeong-Im Park
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2010; 36(6): 441. CrossRef

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Blood Pb, Urine Cd and Health Assessment of Residents in the Vicinity of Abandoned Mines in Gyeongsangbuk-do: Jong Hak Chung, Pock Soo Kang, Chang Yoon Kim, Kyung Soo Lee, Tae Yoon Hwang, Gyu Tae Kim, Jong Seo Park, Si Young Park, Dae Seop Kim, Ou Taek Lim, Joon Sakong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2005;17(3):225-237. Published online September 30, 2005; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2005.17.3.225

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OBJECTIVES
The objective of this health assessment is to evaluate the health risks that may result from exposure to abandoned mine tailings in Gyeongsangbuk-do. The tailings are remnants from an earlier flotation mill and mining operation that was in business from the early 1930's until 1970.
METHODS
The soil, stream water, and drinking water in and around three abandoned mine areas, Soochul, Gumjang, Darock, and three control areas located in Gyeongsangbuk-do were analyzed for level of Cd, Pb, Cu, As, and Hg. Potential chronic health effects were evaluated by interview and medical examination.
RESULTS
Some soil and stream samples exceeded the Korean standard for soil contamination in farmland and the Korean standard of water contamination in streams respectively. Blood lead (5.37 microgram/dl) and urine cadmium (2.79 microgram/g Cr) levels of the residents in the vicinity of the abandoned mine sites were significantly higher than of the residents in the control areas (blood lead, 4.34 microgram/dl; urine cadmium, 1.62 microgram/g Cr). There were no significant differences between the mining and control areas in terms of blood pressure, Hb, BUN, creatinine, SGOT, SGPT, fasting blood sugar, and the prevalence of potential chronic diseases.
CONCLUSIONS
The results of the assessment suggested that the three abandoned mine sites do not pose an apparent health risk to nearby residents. Nevertheless, the elevated blood lead and urine cadmium levels in the residents of the abandoned mine site suggested that it might be an important source of heavy metals contamination. Therefore, a nationwide evaluation program is needed to assess the potential health risks of residents living in the vicinity of abandoned mine sites.

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Bioaccumulation of Lead, Cadmium, and Arsenic in a Mining Area and Its Associated Health Effects
Ulziikhishig Surenbaatar, Seungho Lee, Jung-Yeon Kwon, Hyunju Lim, Jeong-Jin Kim, Young-Hun Kim, Young-Seoub Hong
Toxics.2023; 11(6): 519. CrossRef
Association between levels of exposure to heavy metals and renal function indicators of residents in environmentally vulnerable areas
Jung-Yeon Kwon, Seungho Lee, Ulziikhishig Surenbaatar, Hyoun-Ju Lim, Byoung-Gwon Kim, Sang-Yong Eom, Yong Min Cho, Woo Jin Kim, Byeng-Chul Yu, Kwan Lee, Young-Seoub Hong
Scientific Reports.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Association of Blood Heavy Metal Levels and Renal Function in Korean Adults
Yoonjin Park, Su-Jung Lee
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(11): 6646. CrossRef
Potential of biochar for clean-up of heavy metal contaminated soil and water
Adaobi Onmonya Yvonne, Galadima Adamu Sadiq, Sadiq Maryam
African Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.2022; 16(4): 146. CrossRef
A review on heavy metal and metalloid contamination of vegetables: addressing the global safe food security concern
Sweta, Bhaskar Singh
International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry.2022; : 1. CrossRef
Exposure factors of cadmium for residents in an abandoned metal mine area in Korea
Seung Chul Ahn, Jun Young Chang, Jung Sub Lee, Hwa Yon Yu, A-Ra Jung, Jee-Young Kim, Jong-Woo Choi, Young-Seoub Hong, Seung Do Yu, Kyounghee Choi
Environmental Geochemistry and Health.2017; 39(5): 1059. CrossRef
Time trend of cadmium intake in Korea
Chan-Seok Moon, Hye-Ran Yang, Haruo Nakatsuka, Masayuki Ikeda
Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine.2016; 21(3): 118. CrossRef
Measuring the Environmental Burden of Disease in South Korea: A Population-Based Study
Seok-Jun Yoon, Hyeong-Su Kim, Jongsik Ha, Eun-Jung Kim
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2015; 12(7): 7938. CrossRef
Blood Cadmium Concentration of Residents Living near Abandoned Metal Mines in Korea
Young-Seoub Hong, Byung-Kook Lee, Jung-Duck Park, Joon Sakong, Jae-Wook Choi, Jai-Dong Moon, Dae-Seon Kim, Byoung-Gwon Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2014; 29(5): 633. CrossRef
Association of arsenic levels in soil and water with urinary arsenic concentration of residents in the vicinity of closed metal mines
YongMin Cho, SungChul Seo, Seung-Hyun Choi, SeungKil Lee, KyungHee Kim, Hae-Joon Kim, Jae-Wook Choi
International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health.2013; 216(3): 255. CrossRef
Relationship between Urine Cadmium and Bone Mineral Density of Residents Around Abandoned Metal Mines
Kyung-Sick Jung, Nam-Soo Kim, Seung-Chul Ahn, Byung-Kook Lee
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2012; 38(4): 323. CrossRef
The association of heavy metals in blood, fish consumption frequency, and risk of cardiovascular diseases among Korean adults: The Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2008-2010)
Ji-Ye Shin, Ji-Myung Kim, Yuri Kim
Korean Journal of Nutrition.2012; 45(4): 347. CrossRef
Blood lead levels of residents living around 350 abandoned metal mines in Korea
Nam-Soo Kim, Joon Sakong, Jae-Wook Choi, Young-Seoub Hong, Jai-Dong Moon, Byung-Kook Lee
Environmental Monitoring and Assessment.2012; 184(7): 4139. CrossRef
The Effect of Exposure Factors on the Concentration of Heavy Metals in Residents Near Abandoned Metal Mines
Sanghoo Kim, Yong-Min Cho, Seung-Hyun Choi, Hae-Joon Kim, Jaewook Choi
Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health.2011; 44(1): 41. CrossRef
Lessons of Goseong Abandoned Metal Mine Accident
Ho-Jang Kwon
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2011; 37(5): 335. CrossRef
Relationship between Heavy Metal Concentrations in the Soil with the Blood and Urine of Residents around Abandoned Metal Mines
Bong-Ki Jang, Sang-Il Park, Nam-Soo Kim, Kyung-Sick Jung, Byung-Kook Lee, Jong-Wha Lee
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2011; 37(5): 348. CrossRef
Blood Lead Level in Populations Resident in Some Abandoned Mine Area
Sun-Ho Song, Sang-Yong Eom, Yong-Dae Kim, Heon Kim, Jang-Soo Hong
Journal of Environmental Science International.2010; 19(4): 527. CrossRef
Investigation on Health Effects of an Abandoned Metal Mine
Soyeon Kim, Ho-Jang Kwon, Hae-Kwan Cheong, Kyungho Choi, Jae-Yeon Jang, Woo-Chul Jeong, Dae-Seon Kim, Seungdo Yu, Young-Wook Kim, Kwang-Young Lee, Seoung-Oh Yang, Ik Jae Jhung, Won-Ho Yang, Yun-Chul Hong
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2008; 23(3): 452. CrossRef

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Effect of the Type of Computer on Computerized Neurobehavioral Performance Tests: Gyu Tae Kim, Chang Yoon Kim, Joon Sakong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2004;16(3):276-286. Published online September 30, 2004; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2004.16.3.276

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OBJECTIVES
It is difficult to carry and set up a large numbers of computers when computerized neurobehavioral tests are performed to many subjects. There are difficulties in mobilizing and resetting desktop computers and so, the use of desktop computers will decrease due to the recent increasing popularity of laptop computers. However, it is essential that there is no difference between the tests performed on a laptop and on a desktop computer. This study was conducted to estimate the effect that the type of computer has on computerized neurobehavioral performance tests.
METHODS
Three types of computers were applied. Type 1 was a normal laptop computer. Type 2 was a laptop computer that was remodeled and equipped with a modified keyboard. A common desktop computer with a remodeled keyboard as type 3. The computerized tests included Simple Reaction Time, Choice Reaction Time, Symbol Digit, and Finger Tapping Speed. A total of 60 subjects were examined by the identical tester in the same testing conditions. The computers were randomly allocated, which were used in the test and let examinees take tests with the separate computers.
RESULTS
There were no significant differences among the computers for the results of the Simple Reaction Time and Finger Tapping Speed tests. The mean reaction time, error number of Choice Reaction Time and mean reaction time, correct mean reaction time, error number of Symbol Digit produced significantly different results among the three types of computers.
CONCLUSION
This study indicates that with only a laptop computer the Simple Reaction Time test using the space bar was useful. But with the laptop computer, the Choice Reaction Time test using the four-direction key and the Symbol Digit test using the upper end number key were unsuitable. The keyboard should be developed further for the Choice Reaction Time and Symbol Digit tests. Among the three computers, we recommend the use of the desktop computer with the remodeled keyboard which the examinees are familiar with and the laptop computer with the remodeled keyboard.

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Performance assessment on the Korean Computerized Neurobehavioral Test using a mobile device and a conventional computer: an experimental study
Young Seok Byun, Sung Kyu Park, Joon Sakong, Man Joong Jeon
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef
Effects of computer familiarity and computer type on the performance of Korean computerized neurobehavioral test
Nak Joon Baek, Gun Il Park, Young Seok Byun, Man Joong Jeon, Joon Sakong
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef

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Effects of Familiarity with Computer and Type of Keyboard on Computerized Neurobehavioral Performance Tests: Man Joong Jeon, Chang Yoon Kim, Jong Hak Chung, Woo Taek Lim, Joon Sakong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2004;16(2):178-190. Published online June 30, 2004; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2004.16.2.178

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OBJECTIVES
A stratified cross-over study was conducted to evaluate the effects of familiarity with computer on the performance of computerized neurobehavioral tests. Effects of keyboard type on the relationship between familiarity with computer and performance of computerized neurobehavioral tests were also examined.
METHODS
We tested 70 persons classified into three groups according to degree of familiarity with computer: Group 1 was people with no computer competency, Group 2 had slight working experience on the computer, and Group 3 were highly competent and efficient on the computer. For each group, we executed 4 tests of the Korean version of the Swedish Performance Evaluation System (Simple Reaction Time, Addition, Symbol Digit, and Finger Tapping Speed). Three types of keyboard were applied for all three groups. Type 1 keyboard was a conventional layout with 106 keys. We removed the unused keys except for the 17 which were used in the test and remodeled the normal keyboard into Type 2 keyboard with 17 keys (10 numeric keys, 4 arrow keys, space bar, and both Ctrl keys). Type 3 keyboard with 11 keys consisted of 10 numeric keys and the space bar was newly developed for the computerized neurobehavioral performance test.
RESULTS
It was found that Simple Reaction Time, Addition, and Finger Tapping Speed were not affected by familiarity with computer and type of keyboard. The mean reaction time of Symbol Digit adjusted by age and educational level with Type 1 keyboard was found to have significant difference among the three groups (F=3.347, p=0.041). The performance of Symbol Digit in Group 1 was found to be significantly lower than that in Group 2. The performances of Symbol Digit measured with Types 2 and 3 keyboards were not found to have significant differences among the three groups. In Groups 1 and 3, the performances of Symbol Digit measured with Type 1 keyboard were found to be significantly lower than those of other keyboards.
CONCLUSIONS
According to the above results, Simple Reaction Time, Addition, and Finger Tapping Speed have high priority over other neurobehavioral tests for the workers having varying degrees of computer familiarity. It is also suggested that familiarity with computer and keyboard type needs to be considered in interpretation of the performance of Symbol Digit. We recommended executing the computerized neurobehavioral test with keyboards 2 or 3 to reduce the effect of computer familiarity.

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Performance assessment on the Korean Computerized Neurobehavioral Test using a mobile device and a conventional computer: an experimental study
Young Seok Byun, Sung Kyu Park, Joon Sakong, Man Joong Jeon
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef
Effects of computer familiarity and computer type on the performance of Korean computerized neurobehavioral test
Nak Joon Baek, Gun Il Park, Young Seok Byun, Man Joong Jeon, Joon Sakong
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef
Assessment of Availability of Korean Computerized Neurobehavioral Test in Patients with Brain Injury
Tae-Hoon Kim, Man-Joong Jeon, Joon Sakong
The Journal of the Korea Contents Association.2013; 13(6): 339. CrossRef
Neurobehavioral Changes of Shipyard Painters Exposed to Mixed Organic Solvents
Choong Ryeol LEE, Kyoung Sook JEONG, Yangho KIM, Cheol In YOO, Ji Ho LEE, Young Hee CHOI
INDUSTRIAL HEALTH.2005; 43(2): 320. CrossRef

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Five-year Industrial Accidents of Ship-building Workers at a Ship-Yard: Chang Yoon Kim, Man Joong Jeon, Dae Hee Byun; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2003;15(4):436-445. Published online December 31, 2003; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2003.15.4.436

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OBJECTIVES
This study evaluated the status of industrial accidents at a ship-yard in Korea in order to provide the basic materials for preventing further industrial accidents.
METHODS
This study reviewed and analyzed the records of 252 industrial accidents that occurred in a ship-yard at Ulsan city from January 1 1997 until December 31st, 2001 according to age, the work career, the job department, the day of the week, the occurrence time, the part of body injured, and the accident type.
RESULTS
There were a total of 252 industrial accidents over the five years. The incidence of industrial accidents per year were 17.38, 26.99, 16.44, 11.35, 14.50 per 1,000 persons from 1997 to 2001, respectively. The frequency of industrial accidents per year were 11.56, 11.23, 6.27, 4.42, 5.79 per one million man hours from 1997 to 2001, respectively. The intensity of industrial accidents per year was 1.67, 0.18, 4.32 per 1,000 man hours from 1999 to 2001, respectively. The highest incidence occurred in the over 50 age group (33.87 per 1,000 persons). Regarding the incidence according to the work career, it was highest in those who had worked for less than 1 year (39.76 per 1,000 persons). The incidence in those working in high places and those using heavy materials were higher than the others. The most frequent day of the week was Monday (19.8%), which was followed by Friday (16.7%) and Saturday (15.9%). The most frequent time of an accident was 15:00-16:59(25.8%), which was followed by 08:00-09:59(24.2%), 10:00-11:59(20.2%). The most frequent part of the body injured was the low back (28.6%), which was followed by the lower extremities (24.2%), and the upper extremities (23.0%). The types of industrial accidents were stenosis (27.0%) to have been happened most and upset (19.8%), fall down (14.7%), hard movement (12.3%), and falling (9.1%).
CONCLUSIONS
The above results suggests that a more precise system of reporting industrial accidents will be needed in order to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the industrial accident statistics. In addition, the preventive activities for back injury, stenosis, and fall down are needed in order to prevent industrial accidents at ship-yards in Korea. Furthermore, the strengthening of a continuous health education program will be necessary for beginners, older workers, and those working in high places and using heavy materials.

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The Prediction of Industrial Accident Rate in Korea: A Time Series Analysis
Eunsuk Choi, Gyeong-Suk Jeon, Won Kee Lee, Young Sun Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2016; 25(1): 65. CrossRef
A basic research on risk control measure for reducing the fishermen's occupational accident in offshore and coastal fishing vessel
Wook-Sung Kim, Young-Bok Cho, Seok-Jae Kim, Kyong-Jin Ryu, Yoo-Won Lee
Journal of the Korean society of Fisheries Technology.2014; 50(4): 614. CrossRef
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Journal of the Ergonomics Society of Korea.2012; 31(1): 131. CrossRef
The Actual State of Industrial Accidents in Small-medium Manufacturing Industries
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Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2011; 20(1): 93. CrossRef

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Concentration of Lead, Cadmium, and Mercury in Scalp Hair, Cerebellum, Cerebrum, Heart, Kidney, Liver, Lung and Spleen from Autopsy Subjects : Relationship between Scalp Hair and Internal Organs: Jong Hak Chung, Chang Yoon Kim, Joon Sakong, Joong Jung Lee, Man Joong Jeon, Seong Kuk Lee, Jeung Sik Kwak, Sung Hwa Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(4):571-586. Published online December 31, 1998; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.4.571

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This study was conducted to measure the lead, cadmium and mercury levels in the scalp hair, cerebellum, cerebrum, heart, kidney, liver, lung, and spleen of the 60 Korean autopsy subjects and assess the relationship among those samples. The mean lead level in the scalp hair was 12.29+/-12.51 microgram/g and no significant difference was detected in lead concentrations between the two sexes. Among the internal organ tissues the cerebrum contained the highest level of lead. This is followed by the cerebellum, spleen and liver respectively. After which the kidney and lung showed a close similarity at relatively low concentrations and the heart contained the lowest concentration. There was also no significant variation found between sexes in a comparison of lead in the internal organ tissues. The concentrations of cadmium in kidney were 127.33+/-89.36 microgram/g and considerably higher than those in the other internal organs. The liver contained the next highest level of cadmium. In both sexes, the consistent difference was noted in the cadmium concentrations of the kidney, heart and spleen. Yet female cadmium level was higher than the male's. The concentrations of mercury in the kidney and liver were 1.26+/-2.89 microgram/g, 0.59+/-0.54 microgram/g and considerably higher than those in the other internal organs. The mean mercury level in the scalp hair was 1.29+/-0.64 microgram/g and no marked difference was noted in both sexes. The lead concentration in the spleen increased with advancing age, though not statistically significance, and most of the internal organ tissues that were examined showed no evidence of increased lead concentration with age. The kidney, cerebrum, spleen and cerebellum showed increased cadmium concentrations with age. Also as well as the internal organ tissues that were examined showed no evidence of increased mercury concentration with age. The lead concentrations in the liver and lung were higher in the urban area than in the rural area, but the lead concentration in the kidney was higher in the rural area. No difference was noted in tissue cadmium and mercury concentrations as to the area of residence either. The physical workers had greater concentrations of lead in cerebellum than did housewives or the unemployed. Yet no difference was noted in the other tissues between the two groups. In the cerebellum, cerebrum, heart, and spleen, the physical workers had greater concentrations of cadmium than students or mental workers. Also physical workers had greater concentrations of cadmium in lung than housewives or the unemployed. In contrast to lead and cadmium, both the housewives and the unemployed had higher concentrations of mercury in cerebellum and cerebrum than physical workers, but there was no difference was noted in the other tissues between the two groups. In the lead concentration, there was no statistically significant correlation between the scalp hair and examined internal organ tissues. There was a close relationship between lead levels in cerebellum and cerebrum (r=0.465, p<0.01), as well as a relationship between the cerebellum and the kidney(r=0.300, p<0.05). There was no statistically significant correlation between the cadmium levels in the scalp hair and in the examined internal organ tissues. Positive correlations were found between the cadmium concentrations in the cerebellum and the cerebrum(r=0.5543, p<0.01), heart(r=0.480, p<0.01), kidney(r=0.376, p<0.01) and spleen(r=0.408, p<0.01). Also positive correlation was found between in the cerebrum and the heart(r=0.377, p<0.01), kidney(r=0.484, p<0.01), liver(r=0.265, p<0.05), lung(r=0.458, p<0.01) and spleen (r=0.483, p<0.01). There was also no statistically significant correlation between the mercury levels in the scalp hair and in the examined internal organ tissues. Positive correlation was found between the mercury concentrations in the cerebellum and cerebrum(r=0.760, p<0.01), heart(r=0.270, p<0.05), liver(r=0.425, p<0.01), lung (r=0.488, p<0.01) and spleen (r=0.534, p<0.01), and also positive correlation was found between in the cerebrum and heart(r=0.376, p<0.01), liver(r=0.350, p<0.01), lung(r=0.554, p<0.01) and spleen (r=0.489, p<0.01). Various epidemiological studies reported usefulness and reliability of using scalp hair as a monitor of a environmental pollutants. In this study, there was statistically significant correlation of lead, cadmium and mercury levels in most of the tissues that were examined, but there was no statistically significant correlation between the lead, cadmium and mercury levels in the scalp hair and most of examined internal organ tissues. The findings of this study would suggest that it is still uncertain to using scalp hair as a biological monitoring.

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Human Exposure to Metals: Levels in Autopsy Tissues of Individuals Living Near a Hazardous Waste Incinerator
Montse Mari, Martí Nadal, Marta Schuhmacher, Eneko Barbería, Francisco García, José L. Domingo
Biological Trace Element Research.2014; 159(1-3): 15. CrossRef
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Zeliha Kayaaltı, Görkem Mergen, Tülin Söylemezoğlu
Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology.2010; 245(2): 252. CrossRef

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ALDH2 Genetic Polymorphism and Urinary Hippuric Acid Concentration in Toluene Exposed Workers: Oh Choon Kwon, Ree Joo, Jung Jeung Lee, Chang Yoon Kim, Jong Hak Chung, Seong Yong Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(2):332-340. Published online June 30, 1997; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.2.332

Abstract PDF: In this study we evaluated the effects of the genetic polymorphism of aldehyde dehydrogenase2 (ALDH2) on toluene metabolism and determined biological exposure indices (BEIs) for toluene by the genotypes of ALDH2. The study subject were 77 men workers who are handling toluene in a video tape manufacturing factory and a textile company. Through the face-to-face interview, the information about smoking and drinking behavior wag obtained. For determination of ALDH2 poly morphism, 5 ml of venous blood sample was obtained from each subject after informed consent. DNA was extracted from the buffy coat and ALDH2 genotyping were performed using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. The genotype of ALDH2 was classified into the homozygous genotype of normal ALDH2 (NN), and the heterozygous genotype of normal and inactive ALDH2 (ND), and homozygous genotype of an inactive ALDH2(DD). The concentration of hippuric acid (HA), the main metabolite of toluene, was determined in urine specimens collected at the end of shift, corrected with creatinine (HA/C), and compared with BEI for toluene, which is 2.5 g/g creatinine. The personal exposure level of toluene were monitored, using personal air sampler and analyzed by gas chromatography. The frequencies of the three genotypes in this study subjects were, NN : 45 (58.4%), ND : 26 (33.8%) and DD : 6 (7.8%), and frequencies of the genotypes in the middle or heavy toluene exposure workers were not significantly different from those in the mild toluene exposure workers. The frequencies of the DD type of ALDH2 was lower among alcohol drinkers than among non-drinkers. The urinary HA concentration of DD group was significantly lower than that of the NN or ND group, which suggests that the HA formation from toluene decreased in DD group. Regression lines were used to estimate the BEIs of the NN, ND, and DD groups. NN : y = 0.0085x + 0.23, r = 0.90 ND : y = 0.0074x + 0.21, r = 0.85 DD : y = 0.0041x + 0.82, r = 0.83 The three regression lines revealed that the estimated urinary HA concentration of NN, ND, and DD groups at 377 mg/m3 toluene(TLV-TWA) exposure were 3.43, 3.00, and 2.37 g/g creatinine, respectively. The HA concentration of the NN, and ND group were higher than that of the ACGIH BEI (2.5 g/g creatinine) ; however, the HA level of DD group was lower than the BEI. These results suggests that the ACGIH BEI is not adequate to estimate the toluene exposure of the NN, ND and DD groups at the same time. Based upon those results, a new BEI for ALDH2 deficient workers may be necessary.

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Effect of Long-Term Noise Exposure on the Blood Pressure in Factory Workers: Bok Youn Kim, Cheon Tae Kim, Jung Jeung Lee, Hong Chin Park, Chang Yoon Kim, Pock Soo Kang; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1996;8(1):43-58. Published online February 29, 1996; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1996.8.1.43

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The question of an association between occupational noise exposure and blood pressure has important public health implications. The harmful effects of hypertension are well known and noise is considered the mosts pervasive problem of all occupational exposures in Taegu City, Korea. A cross-sectional study on the effect of long-term noise exposure on blood pressure was done for 276 noise exposed workers (203 male workers, 73 female workers). Long-term noise exposure was measured by cumulative noise exposure level and noise-induced hearing loss. Hearing loss=(500Hz+2x1,000Hz+2x2,000Hz+4,000Hz)/6 Questionaire was administered to the workers, which includes age, sex, occupational history on the noise exposure, habits on alcohol drinking and smoking, practice of regular exercise, family history of hypertension. Type A behavior, question on stress, height, weight and blood pressure were measured. Serum triglyceride and low density lipoprotein (LDL) were also measured. Audiometry was done in the closed booth at 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000, 6,000, 8,000, 1,000 and 500Hz in order. Mutiple logistic regression analysis revealed that cumulative noise exposure level(p<0.05), serum triglyceride(p<0.01), age(p<0.01) and family history of hypertension (p<0.05) predict hypertension (systolic blood pressure: 160mmHg or above, or diastolic blood pressure: 95mmHg or above) in male workers. In female workers, serum triglyceride (p<0.01), LDL (p<0.01) and family history of hypertension(p<0.05) were predictors of hypertension (systolic blood pressure: 160mmHg or above, or diastolic blood pressure: 95mmHg or above). As the number of female workers with hypertension was too small, the multiple logistic regression was done according to hypertension criteria of systolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 140mmHg, or diastolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 90mmHg. Based on this criteria, cumulative noise exposure level (p=0.055) and age (p=0.057) predict hypertension. It is suggested that long-term noise exposure which was calculated by cumulative noise exposure level was a significant predictor of hypertension in noise exposed workers.

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Overview of the Environmental Damage, Property Loss, and Health Impairment of Residents around a US Air Force Firing Range
Hyun-Sul Lim
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2011; 37(3): 173. CrossRef
Cohort study for the effect of chronic noise exposure on blood pressure among male workers in Busan, Korea
Ji Ho Lee, Weechang Kang, Seung Rim Yaang, Nari Choy, Choong Ryeol Lee
American Journal of Industrial Medicine.2009; 52(6): 509. CrossRef

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The Effect of Day and Night Shift on Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Disease in Automobile: Manufacturing Plant Workers: Jae Haek Shin, Jung Jeung Lee, Kyeong Soo Lee, Joon Sakong, Chang Yoon Kim, Jong Hak Chung; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1995;7(1):28-45. Published online February 28, 1995; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1995.7.1.28

Abstract PDF: An investigation of effects of shift work on cardiovascular risk factors has been carried out on workers of a motor company in Ulsan, for 2 months from 20 April to 20 June,1993. This cross-sectional survey was designed to compare the shift workers (n=420) with day workers (n=88). The study subjects were drawn from workers who were employed in twelve hour shift system. A control group who never experienced shift work was drawn from different sections of the factory. Each worker completed a medical and occupational questionnaire and cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglyceride, apolipoprotein A-1 and B were measured. In univariate analysis, apolipoprotein B and the ratio of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotem A-1 increased in shift workers. In multiple regression analysis for the systolic blood pressure, shift work was significant independent variable (p=0.059). In multiple regression analysis for the cholesterol, age and body mass index were significant independent variables(p<0.01), but shift work was not a statistically significant independent variable. In multiple regression analysis for the ratio of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-1, shift work was significant independent variable (p<0.05). Shift workers who have engaged in shift work more than 5 years have an excess of total cholesterol, apolipoprotein B and ratio of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-1 than those who have engaged in shift work less than 5 years (p<0.05). In multiple regression analysis for the cholesterol, duration of shift work was a significant independent variable (p=0.012). In multiple regression analysis for the apolipoprotein B and ratio of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-1, duration of shift work was not a significant independent variable.

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A Computer-Administered Neurobehavioral Evaluation of Workers Exposed to Organic Solvents: Jong Hak Chung, Chang Yoon Kim, Joon Sakong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1994;6(2):219-241. Published online September 30, 1994; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1994.6.2.219

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A cross-sectional study was performed to evaluate the effects of chronic exposure to solvent on neurobehavioral performance of solvent exposed 89 workers engaged in a video tape manufacturing fatory. A control group of 43 workers was selected fro different sections of the factory. The mean age and the mean duration of employment were 29 years and 5.4 years. Each workers completed a medical and occupational questionnaire. Adverse effects on the central nervous system were assessed by self reported Scandinavian questionnaire 16, New Anxiety-Depression Scale and seven test of Swedish Performance Evaluation System. These included simple reaction time, choice reaction time, digit classification, finger tapping speed, additions, symbol digit and digit span. Several potential confounding factors were included as indepedent variables in all analysis of neurobehavioral tests and symptoms. These included age, sex, educational level, familiarity with computer, alcohol drinking and amount of smoking. No significant associations were found between solvent exposure and total symptom score and mood score, Although the mean duration of employment was 5.4 years, comparison of mean performance scores adjusted for confounding factors showed a significantly poorer performance on choice reaction time(p<0.05), digit classification (p<0.01), additions (p<0.01) and symbol digit(p<0.01) in exposed group. Factor matrix of neurobehavioral tests produced by varimax rotation showed three distinct factors, which correspond to assessments of "memory", "coordination" and "response speed". These factors accounted for 62.6% of the total variance of the sample. Familiarity with computer was found to be associated with performance of symbol digit and amount of smoking appeared to slow finger tapping speed. Male and college graduate workers have less errors than others. There were no significant correlation between neurotoxic symptom score and performance of neurobehavioral tests.

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Minkeun Kim, Chulyong Park, Joon Sakong, Shinhee Ye, So young Son, Kiook Baek
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Effects of computer familiarity and computer type on the performance of Korean computerized neurobehavioral test
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Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef
Test/re-test Reliability of the CANTAB Batteries to Evaluate the Neuropsychological Function for Korean Adult
Eui-Young kim, 조은형
The Korean Journal of Measurement and Evaluation in Physical Education and Sports Science.2012; 14(1): 11. CrossRef
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Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S26. CrossRef
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INDUSTRIAL HEALTH.2005; 43(2): 320. CrossRef

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Vibration perception threshold measured by a bone vibrator of audiometer: Jong Young Lee, Dong Hoon Shin, Seung Hoon Lee, Moo Sik Lee, Suk Kwan Suh, Chang Yoon Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1993;5(2):244-249. Published online September 30, 1993; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1993.5.2.244

Abstract PDF: No abstract available.

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