Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

The most viewed articles in the last three months among those published since 2023.

Case Report

Challenges in diagnosing occupational allergic contact dermatitis: a case report: Jun Fai Yap, Kim Sui Wan, Muhammad Fadhli Mohd Yusoff, Yin Cheng Lim, Rama Krishna Supramanian; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e7. Published online March 24, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e7

Abstract PDF: Background
In Malaysia, occupational allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is often under-reported. This case report describes a chemical engineer who developed possible ACD, likely due to workplace allergen exposure.
Case presentation
He presented with a 4-month history of intensely itchy rashes on both hands, which improved during work breaks. A dermatological examination revealed lichenified, pruritic papules with well-defined borders on the palmar surfaces of both hands. A skin patch test identified reactions to five allergens, including ‘fragrance mix,’ ‘methyldibromo glutaronitrile,’ ‘clioquinol,’ ‘epoxy resin,’ and ‘textile dye mix.’ However, among these, only ‘bisphenol A diglycidyl ether,’ a component of ‘epoxy resin,’ was listed in the safety data sheet as a confirmed occupational exposure. In accordance with local regulations, this case was reported as ‘occupational dermatitis’ to the Department of Occupational Safety and Health. The patient was prescribed symptomatic topical treatments, including emollients and topical corticosteroids. Additionally, he was advised to switch to hypoallergenic products. On follow-up, his chronic inflammatory skin lesions showed improvement.
Conclusions
Thorough occupational history-taking and patch testing are essential for diagnosing ACD. Personalized health education and regular follow-ups, is crucial in monitoring lesion resolution and evaluating the effectiveness of preventive measures in workplace settings.

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Special Issue

Working hours and the regulations in Korea: Inah Kim, Jeehee Min; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e18. Published online July 6, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e18

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

South Korea has the highest policy priority for working hour regulations because it has longer annual working hours than other Organization for Economic Development Co-operation and Development countries and has fewer holidays. According to the results of the Working Conditions Surveys between 2006 and 2020, in 2020, 6% of wage earners worked for > 52 hours weekly. The percentage of workers exceeding 52 hours weekly has decreased over time; however, disparities exist based on age, industry, occupation, company type, and company size, particularly in service-, arts-, and culture-related occupations and workplaces with fewer than 5 employees. South Korea’s working hours system is greatly influenced by the 52-hour weekly maximum; sometimes, a maximum of 64–69 hours, including overtime, is theoretically possible. To ensure healthy working hours, it is important to actively protect workers who fall through the cracks, such as those in businesses with fewer than 5 employees.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Gender differences in the association between long working hours and the onset of depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older workers in Korea: A population-based longitudinal study (2006–2022)
Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Maturitas.2025; 193: 108175. CrossRef
Association of precarious employment with depressive symptoms and insomnia: Findings from the Korean Working Conditions Survey
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Journal of Psychiatric Research.2025; 181: 7. CrossRef
Gender differences in the association between long work hours, weekend work, and insomnia symptoms in a nationally representative sample of workers in Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Sleep Health.2025; 11(2): 191. CrossRef
Challenges from 14 years of experience at Workers' Health Centers in basic occupational health services for micro and small enterprises in Korea: a narrative review
Jeong-Ok Kong, Yeongchull Choi, Seonhee Yang, Kyunghee Jung-Choi
The Ewha Medical Journal.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
The increasing importance of changes in nuptiality: policy mismatch and fertility decline in low-fertility Asian societies
Jolene Tan, Qi Cui, Fumiya Uchikoshi
Chinese Sociological Review.2025; : 1. CrossRef
Association of long working hours with visceral adiposity index, anthropometric indices, and weight management behaviors: a study of Korean workers
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Family Practice.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Gender discrimination in the workplace and the onset of problematic alcohol use among female wage workers: A longitudinal study in Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jong-Uk Won
Social Science & Medicine.2025; 379: 118183. CrossRef
Overwork and changes in brain structure: a pilot study
Wonpil Jang, Sungmin Kim, YouJin Kim, Seunghyun Lee, Joon Yul Choi, Wanhyung Lee
Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2025; 82(3): 105. CrossRef
Association of social jetlag with cigarette smoking, smoking intensity, and quitting intentions among Korean workers
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Journal of Public Health.2025; 47(3): 610. CrossRef
Employment Quality as a Framework to Understand Precarious Employment and Beyond in Cross‐National Contexts: Conceptual, Methodological, and Practical Recommendations
Julie Vanderleyden, Deborah De Moortel
Sociology Compass.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Effect of long working hours on psychological distress among young workers in different types of occupation
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Preventive Medicine.2024; 179: 107829. CrossRef
Association between long working hours and diet quality and patterns: A latent profile analysis of a nationally representative sample of Korean workers
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Preventive Medicine.2024; 180: 107890. CrossRef
Long Working Hours, Work-life Imbalance, and Poor Mental Health: A Cross-sectional Mediation Analysis Based on the Sixth Korean Working Conditions Survey, 2020–2021
Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jong-Uk Won
Journal of Epidemiology.2024; 34(11): 535. CrossRef
Association between long working hours and the onset of problematic alcohol use in young workers: A population-based longitudinal analysis in South Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Journal of Affective Disorders.2024; 344: 141. CrossRef
Sex differences in the association between social jetlag and hazardous alcohol consumption in Korean workers: A nationwide cross-sectional study
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Sleep Medicine.2024; 119: 549. CrossRef
Association of low-quality employment with the development of suicidal thought and suicide planning in workers: A longitudinal study in Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon, Yu-Min Lee, Jong-Uk Won
Social Science & Medicine.2024; 358: 117219. CrossRef
Changes in Korea’s working time policy: the need for research on flexible working hours considering socioeconomic inequality
Inah KIM
Industrial Health.2024; 62(2): 77. CrossRef
Association between long working hours and engagement in preventive healthcare services in Korean workers: Findings from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Preventive Medicine.2024; 180: 107849. CrossRef
Association between long working hours and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease: a nationwide population-based study in Korea
S.-U. Baek, J.-U. Won, Y.-M. Lee, J.-H. Yoon
Public Health.2024; 232: 188. CrossRef
How does working time impact perceived mental disorders? New insights into the U-shaped relationship
Xiaoru Niu, Chao Li, Yuxin Xia
Frontiers in Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Temporary Employment Is Associated with Poor Dietary Quality in Middle-Aged Workers in Korea: A Nationwide Study Based on the Korean Healthy Eating Index, 2013–2021
Seong-Uk Baek, Myeong-Hun Lim, Yu-Min Lee, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Nutrients.2024; 16(10): 1482. CrossRef
Association between long working hours and the development of suicidal ideation among female workers: An 8-year population-based study using the Korean Longitudinal Survey of Women & Family (2012–2020)
Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Psychiatry Research.2024; 333: 115731. CrossRef
Long working hours and preventive oral health behaviors: a nationwide study in Korea (2007–2021)
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon, Yu-Min Lee, Jong-Uk Won
Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine.2024; 29: 48. CrossRef
Association between precarious employment and emergence of food insecurity in Korean adults: A population-based longitudinal analysis (2008–2022)
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Social Science & Medicine.2024; 362: 117448. CrossRef
Association of Social Jetlag with the Dietary Quality Among Korean Workers: Findings from a Nationwide Survey
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Nutrients.2024; 16(23): 4091. CrossRef
Association between social jetlag and leisure-time physical activity and muscle strengthening exercise in young adults: findings from a nationally representative sample in South Korea
S.-U. Baek, Y.-M. Lee, J.-U. Won, J.-H. Yoon
Public Health.2024; 237: 30. CrossRef
Association between husband's participation in household work and the onset of depressive symptoms in married women: A population-based longitudinal study in South Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Social Science & Medicine.2024; 362: 117416. CrossRef
Long Working Hours and Unhealthy Lifestyles of Workers: A Protocol for a Scoping Review
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Merits.2024; 4(4): 431. CrossRef
Work hours and the risk of hypertension: the case of Indonesia
Friska Aulia Dewi Andini, Adiatma Y. M. Siregar
BMC Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
The Prevalence of Traumatic Dental Injuries Due to Workplace Safety Accidents among Korean Workers by Occupational Group
Ji-Young Son, Jae-Hyung Lim, Dong-Hun Han
Asian Journal of Social Health and Behavior.2024; 7(3): 109. CrossRef
Special Series I: Working hours as a social determinant of workers’ health
Kyunghee Jung-Choi, Tae-Won Jang, Mo-Yeol Kang, Jungwon Kim, Eun-A Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

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Original Article

Burnout, stress, and their correlates among bank employees of South India: a cross-sectional study: Guruprasad Vinod, Srikant Ambatipudi; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e22. Published online August 28, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e22

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
The banking sector is one of the job sectors that experience high stress, workload, complex interpersonal relationships, and job burnout as it involves interaction with the public and financial responsibilities, which leads to high burnout and stress. The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of burnout and stress among bank employees and to find the associated factors.
Methods
This cross-sectional survey was conducted among 282 bank employees of Kollam district, Kerala, India. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire related to the socio-demographic and professional details. We used the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) to screen for burnout levels. Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS 21) to screen for the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among study participants. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with the levels of burnout and stress.
Results
Of 282 study participants, moderate to high levels of burnout were observed in 232 participants (82.2%), and 74 participants (26.2%) had mild to extremely severe levels of stress. Daily average working duration showed an association with higher levels of burnout (adjusted odds ratio [ORAdj]: 2.391; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–5.10) and stress (ORAdj: 3.37; 95% CI: 1.58–7.16).
Conclusions
A high prevalence of burnout and stress was observed in the present study. The duration of working hours was associated with both burnout and stress. Therefore, regulating the working hours may help adequately manage stress and burnout, thereby improving the mental health of bank employees.

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537 Download

Original Article

Cooking oil fume exposure and Lung-RADS distribution among school cafeteria workers of South Korea: Minjun Kim, Yangho Kim, A Ram Kim, Woon Jung Kwon, Soyeoun Lim, Woojin Kim, Cheolin Yoo; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e2. Published online January 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e2

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Cooking oil fumes (COFs) from cooking with hot oil may contribute to the pathogenesis of lung cancer. Since 2021, occupational lung cancer for individual cafeteria workers has been recognized in South Korea. In this study, we aimed to identify the distribution of lung-imaging reporting and data system (Lung-RADS) among cafeteria workers and to determine factors related to Lung-RADS distribution.

Methods

We included 203 female participants who underwent low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening at a university hospital and examined the following variables: age, smoking status, second-hand smoke, height, weight, and years of service, mask use, cooking time, heat source, and ventilation. We divided all participants into culinary and non-culinary workers. Binomial logistic regression was conducted to determine the risk factors on LDCT of Category ≥ 3, separately for the overall group and the culinary group.

Results

In this study, Lung-RADS-positive occurred in 17 (8.4%) individuals, all of whom were culinary workers. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed and no variables were found to have a significant impact on Lung-RADS results. In the subgroup analysis, the Lung-RADS-positive, and -negative groups differed only in ventilation. Binary logistic regression showed that the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of the Lung-RADS-positive group for inappropriate ventilation at the workplace was 14.89 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.296–67.231) compared to appropriate ventilation as the reference, and the aOR for electric appliances at home was 4.59 (95% CI: 1.061–19.890) using liquid fuel as the reference.

Conclusions

The rate of Lung-RADS-positive was significantly higher among culinary workers who performed actual cooking tasks than among nonculinary workers. In addition, appropriate ventilation at the workplace made the LDCT results differ. More research is needed to identify factors that might influence LDCT findings among culinary workers, including those in other occupations.

한국 학교 급식소 종사자의 조리흄 노출과 Lung-RADS 분포
목적
2021년부터 한국에서는 개별 학교 급식 종사자의 폐암 산업재해가 인정되고 있다. 본 연구에서는 급식 종사자들의 Lung-imaging reporting and data system ( Lung-RADS ) 분포를 확인하고, Lung-RADS 분포와 관련된 요인을 탐색해보고자 한다.
방법
2020년도에 울산대학병원에서 저선량 CT를 촬영한 여성 참가자 중 203명을 대상으로 나이, 흡연 여부, 간접 흡연 여부, 키, 체중, 근무 년수, 마스크 착용 여부, 조리 시간, 열원, 환기방식 등의 변수를 조사하였다. 참가자를 조리직, 비조리직으로 분류하였다. 범주 3이상에 대한 영향을 확인하기 위해 이분형 로지스틱을 전체집단 조리직 집단에 나누어 실시하였다.
결과
Lung-RADS 양성은 17 (8.4%)명에게서 발생했고 모두 조리직에 해당했다. 이분형 로지스틱 회귀분석을 시행한 결과 전체집단에서 Lung-RADS 결과에 유의미한 영향을 주는 변수는 확인할 수 없었다. Subgroup 분석에서 Lung-RADS 양성, 음성군은 직장 내 환기방식에서만 차이가 있었다. 이분형 로지스틱 회귀분석 결과 직장에서 환기를 철저히 한 것을 참고치로 했을 때 부적절한 환기에 대한 Lung-RADS 양성의 오드비가 14.89이고 가정에서 액화연료 사용을 참고치로 했을 때 전기 요리기구 사용의 오드비는 4.59이였다.
결론
실제 조리업무를 시행하는 조리직의 경우 비조리직에 비해 Lung-RADS 양성 비율이 유의하게 높았다. 또한 조리실 환경에서 환기를 철저하게 하는 것이 Lung-RADS 소견에 영향을 주었다.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Exposure to cooking fumes in cafeteria workers in Korean schools: a pilot study
Daesung Lim, Yong Min Cho
Annals of Work Exposures and Health.2025; 69(1): 109. CrossRef
Lung Cancer Risk in Female School Cooks: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study in the Republic of Korea
Jungwon Jang, Eun Mi Kim, Jaiyong Kim, Jeehee Min, Inah Kim
Safety and Health at Work.2025; 16(1): 105. CrossRef
Radiological Changes in Chest Computed Tomography Findings of School Cooks: A Comparative Study With Age-matched Controls
Jung Hee Hong, Jin Young Kim, Kiook Baek
Safety and Health at Work.2025; 16(2): 228. CrossRef
Cancer-related Keywords in 2023: Insights from Text Mining of a Major Consumer Portal
Wonjeong Jeong, Eunkyoung Song, Eunzi Jeong, Kyoung Hee Oh, Hye-Sun Lee, Jae Kwan Jun
Healthcare Informatics Research.2024; 30(4): 398. CrossRef

10,861 View
295 Download
4 Web of Science
4 Crossref

Original Article

Occupation classification model based on DistilKoBERT: using the 5th and 6th Korean Working Condition Surveys: Tae-Yeon Kim, Seong-Uk Baek, Myeong-Hun Lim, Byungyoon Yun, Domyung Paek, Kyung Ehi Zoh, Kanwoo Youn, Yun Keun Lee, Yangho Kim, Jungwon Kim, Eunsuk Choi, Mo-Yeol Kang, YoonHo Cho, Kyung-Eun Lee, Juho Sim, Juyeon Oh, Heejoo Park, Jian Lee, Jong-Uk Won, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e19. Published online August 6, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e19

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material: Background
Accurate occupation classification is essential in various fields, including policy development and epidemiological studies. This study aims to develop an occupation classification model based on DistilKoBERT.
Methods
This study used data from the 5th and 6th Korean Working Conditions Surveys conducted in 2017 and 2020, respectively. A total of 99,665 survey participants, who were nationally representative of Korean workers, were included. We used natural language responses regarding their job responsibilities and occupational codes based on the Korean Standard Classification of Occupations (7th version, 3-digit codes). The dataset was randomly split into training and test datasets in a ratio of 7:3. The occupation classification model based on DistilKoBERT was fine-tuned using the training dataset, and the model was evaluated using the test dataset. The accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score were calculated as evaluation metrics.
Results
The final model, which classified 28,996 survey participants in the test dataset into 142 occupational codes, exhibited an accuracy of 84.44%. For the evaluation metrics, the precision, recall, and F1 score of the model, calculated by weighting based on the sample size, were 0.83, 0.84, and 0.83, respectively. The model demonstrated high precision in the classification of service and sales workers yet exhibited low precision in the classification of managers. In addition, it displayed high precision in classifying occupations prominently represented in the training dataset.
Conclusions
This study developed an occupation classification system based on DistilKoBERT, which demonstrated reasonable performance. Despite further efforts to enhance the classification accuracy, this automated occupation classification model holds promise for advancing epidemiological studies in the fields of occupational safety and health.; DistilKOBERT를 기반으로 한 직업 분류 모델 개발: 제5차, 6차 한국근로실태조사를 이용하여
목적
정확한 직업분류는 정책 개발 및 역학 연구를 포함한 다양한 분야에서 중요하다. 본 연구는 자연어처리모델인 DistilKoBERT를 기반으로 한 직업 분류 모델을 개발하는 것을 목표로 한다.
방법
본 연구는 2017년과 2020년에 실시된 제5차와 제6차 근로환경조사 (KWCS)의 데이터를 활용하였다. 대한민국 근로자를 국가적으로 대표하는 총 99,665명의 참가자가 포함되었고, 직무 내용과 관련된 자연어 응답과 그에 맞는 대한민국 표준직업 분류코드(7차 개정, 3자리 코드)를 연구에 사용하였다. 데이터셋은 7:3의 비율로 훈련 및 테스트 데이터셋으로 무작위로 분할되었고, 사전 학습된 DistilKoBERT을 훈련 데이터셋을 통해 파인튜닝하여 모델을 학습시키고, 테스트 데이터셋을 사용하여 그 기능을 평가하였다. 정확도, 정밀도, 재현율 및 F1 점수가 평가 지표로 계산되었다.
결과
테스트 데이터셋의 28,996명의 참가자를 142개의 직업 코드로 분류한 최종 모델은 84.44%의 정확도를 보였다. 샘플 크기를 기준으로 가중치를 적용하여 계산한 모델의 정밀도, 재현율 및 F1 점수는 각각 0.83, 0.84 및 0.83 이었다. 최종 모델은 서비스, 판매 종사자 그룹에서 높은 정밀도를 보여주었지만 관리자 그룹에서는 낮은 정밀도를 보였다. 또한 훈련 데이터셋에서 표본의 수가 많았던 직업에서 대체로 높은 정밀도를 보였다.
결론
본 연구는 DistilKoBERT를 기반으로 합리적인 성능을 보이는 직업 분류 모델을 개발하였다. 분류의 정확성을 향상시키기 위한 추가적인 노력이 필요하지만, 자동화된 직업 분류 모델은 직업 안전 및 보건 분야의 유행병 연구를 발전시키는 데 기여할 것이라 기대된다.

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Special Issue

Working hours and the regulations for night shift workers: Tae-Won Jang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e19. Published online July 5, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e19

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

There are several types of shift work in Korea: rotating shift, 24-hour shift, day-night shift, fixed night work, and.so on. As a result of analyzing the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and the 6th Korean Working Condition Survey, Korean shift workers accounted for 11.6%–13.9% of wage workers. Weekly working hours of shift workers were 57.69 ± 1.73 (24-hours shift) and 49.97 ± 0.67 (fixed night shift), which were significantly longer than day workers. To prevent health consequences of night work, many countries regulate the working hours of night work not to exceed 7–9 hours a day. However, Korea does not regulate working hours for night work, and some occupations may work more hours than the prescribed overtime hours. To prevent health consequences and reduce working hours for Korean night shift workers, it is necessary to regulate the working hours of night shift workers by law.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Gender differences in the association between long working hours and the onset of depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older workers in Korea: A population-based longitudinal study (2006–2022)
Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Maturitas.2025; 193: 108175. CrossRef
Association of precarious employment with depressive symptoms and insomnia: Findings from the Korean Working Conditions Survey
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Journal of Psychiatric Research.2025; 181: 7. CrossRef
Association of long working hours with visceral adiposity index, anthropometric indices, and weight management behaviors: a study of Korean workers
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Family Practice.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Night Shift Stress: Evaluating Heart Rate Variability as a Marker in Security Guards
Shouray Dey, A V Vinay, R Sindhu, Shishir Kumar Mahto, Sachin Kumar Patil
Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2025; 29(1): 49. CrossRef
Gender discrimination in the workplace and the onset of problematic alcohol use among female wage workers: A longitudinal study in Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jong-Uk Won
Social Science & Medicine.2025; 379: 118183. CrossRef
A digital, real-time, history-based sleep-management tool to enhance alertness
Yun Min Song, Su Jung Choi, Dongju Lim, Reinatt Hansel Wijaya, Hyeong Jun Jang, Hea Ree Park, Eun Yeon Joo, Jae Kyoung Kim
SLEEPJ.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Human Rights Condition of Informal Labors of South-Western Bangladesh: A Review
Avijit Mallik
Journal of Human Rights and Social Work.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Association between shift work and brain age gap: a neuroimaging study using MRI-based brain age prediction algorithms
Youjin Kim, Joon Yul Choi, Evgeny Petrovskiy, Wanhyung Lee
Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
The association of shift work and TyG index among male workers in a chemical plant of Korea: a cross-sectional study
Gwangin Baek, Yong-Jin Lee, Soon-Chan Kwon, Young-Sun Min, Jisuk Yun, Tae Jin Ahn, Eun-Chul Jang
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Association between long working hours and diet quality and patterns: A latent profile analysis of a nationally representative sample of Korean workers
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Preventive Medicine.2024; 180: 107890. CrossRef
Investigating night shift workers’ commuting patterns using passive mobility data
Sungho Lim, Haesung Ahn, Seungchul Shin, Dongmin Lee, Yong Hoon Kim
Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice.2024; 181: 104002. CrossRef
Multimorbidity and its Associated Factors in Korean Shift Workers: Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Hye Chong Hong, Young Man Kim
JMIR Public Health and Surveillance.2024; 10: e55014. CrossRef
Sex differences in the association between social jetlag and hazardous alcohol consumption in Korean workers: A nationwide cross-sectional study
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Sleep Medicine.2024; 119: 549. CrossRef
The Effect of 24 h Shift Work on the Nutritional Status of Healthcare Workers: An Observational Follow-Up Study from Türkiye
Semra Navruz Varlı, Hande Mortaş
Nutrients.2024; 16(13): 2088. CrossRef
Changes in Korea’s working time policy: the need for research on flexible working hours considering socioeconomic inequality
Inah KIM
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Special Series I: Working hours as a social determinant of workers’ health
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Original Article

Association between work from home and health-related productivity loss among Korean employees: Hyo Jeong Kim, Dong Wook Lee, Jaesung Choi, Yun-Chul Hong, Mo-Yeol Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e13. Published online April 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e13

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material: Background
After the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the widespread adoption of working from home, or teleworking, has prompted extensive research regarding its effects on work productivity and the physical and mental health of employees. In this context, our study aimed to investigate the association between working from home and health-related productivity loss (HRPL).
Methods
An online survey was conducted with a sample of 1,078 workers. HRPL was estimated by the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire: General Health version. Workers that have been working from home in the last 6 months were categorized into the “work from home” group. Generalized linear models were used to compare the mean difference of HRPL between “work from home” and “commuters” group. Stratified analyses were conducted based on various factors including gender, age, income level, occupation, education level, previous diagnosis of chronic disease, presence of preschool children, living in studio apartment, living alone, commuting time, working hours and regular exercise.
Results
The overall HRPL was higher in the “work from home” group than in the “commuters” group with a mean difference of 4.05 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.09–8.01). In the stratified analyses, significant differences were observed in workers with chronic diseases (mean difference: 8.23, 95% CI: 0.38–16.09), who do not live alone (mean difference: 4.84, 95% CI: 0.35–9.33), and workers that do not exercise regularly (mean difference: 4.96, 95% CI: 0.12–9.80).
Conclusions
Working from home is associated with an increased HRPL in the Korean working population, especially among those with chronic diseases, those who do not live alone, and those who do not exercise regularly.; 재택근무와 건강 관련 노동생산성 손실 간의 연관성
목적
코로나-19 감염증 팬데믹 이후 재택근무 및 원격근무가 널리 퍼지면서 재택근무 생산성 및 노동자의 신체적, 정신적 건강에 대한 영향을 파악하고자 하는 연구가 다수 진행되었다. 이러한 맥락에서 본 연구는 재택근무와 건강 관련 노동생산성 손실 간의 관련성을 조사하고자 하였다.
방법
1,078명의 근로자를 대상으로 온라인 설문을 실시하였다. 건강 관련 노동생산성 손실은 “Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire: General Health version(WPAI:GH)”를 이용하여 측정하였다. 지난 6개월 간 재택근무를 한 경우 재택근무자로, 그렇지 않은 경우 통근 근무자로 분류되었다. 재택근무자와 통근 근무자 간의 건강 관련 노동생산성 손실의 평균 차이를 비교하기 위해 일반 선형 모델을 사용하였다. 성별, 연령, 소득 수준, 학력, 만성 질병 진단 여부, 미취학 아동의 존재, 원룸 거주 여부, 독거 여부, 통근 시간, 근무 시간, 꾸준한 운동 등의 요인에 대한 층화 분석을 시행했다.
결과
재택근무자의 건강 관련 노동생산성 손실을 통근 근무자보다 높았으며 그 차이는 4.05(95% 신뢰구간: 0.09–8.01)이었다. 층화 분석에서는 만성 질병을 진단받은 적이 있는 경우(평균 차: 8.22, 95% 신뢰구간: 0.38–16.09), 독거 중이 아닌 경우(평균 차: 4.84, 95% 신뢰구간: 0.35–9.33), 그리고 운동을 꾸준히 하지 않는 경우(평균 차: 4.96, 95% 신뢰구간: 0.12–9.80) 유의한 차이가 확인되었다.
결론
국내 노동 인구에서 재택근무는 건강 관련 노동생산성 손실과 관련이 있으며 특히 만성 질환이 있는 근로자, 동거인이 있는 근로자, 운동을 정기적으로 하지 않는 근로자에서 더욱 그러한 것으로 나타났다.

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Data Profile

Data profile: Korean Work, Sleep, and Health Study (KWSHS): Seong-Sik Cho, Jeehee Min, Heejoo Ko, Mo-Yeol Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e3. Published online February 19, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e3

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

The Korean Work, Sleep, and Health Study (KWSHS) was launched in 2022 as a longitudinal panel study to examine the interactions between work conditions, sleep health, and labour market performance among the Korean workforce. Baseline data were collected from 5,517 participants aged 19 to 70, encompassing diverse occupations. Follow-up surveys occur biannually, accommodating seasonal variations in sleep and health dynamics. To ensure stability, refreshment samples were integrated in later waves, maintaining a cohort size of 5,783 participants in wave 5. Key data include socio-demographics, employment characteristics, sleep patterns, health outcomes, and workplace performance. Early findings highlight critical associations, such as the adverse effects of occupational physical activity on productivity, the impact of emotional labour on health-related productivity loss, and the significance of sleep disruptions on mental health. The cohort’s design enables detailed analyses of longitudinal and cross-sectional trends, offering insights into how changing work environments influence health and productivity. The KWSHS could serve as a vital resource for evidence-based interventions aimed at improving occupational health and productivity in Korea's evolving labour landscape. Data access is available through the study’s principal investigator upon request.

한국 직업, 수면 및 건강 연구(KWSHS)
한국 직업, 수면 및 건강 연구(KWSHS)는 한국 노동자의 근로 조건, 수면 건강, 노동 시장 성과 간 상호작용을 조사하기 위해 2022년에 시작된 종단적 패널 연구이다. 기초 자료는 다양한 직업군을 포함하여 19세에서 70세까지의 5,517명을 대상으로 수집하였다. 후속 설문조사는 수면 및 건강 역학의 계절적 변동성을 고려하여 2년마다 실시하며, 코호트의 안정성을 유지하기 위해 후속 조사에서는 보충 표본을 추가하여 5차 웨이브에서는 총 5,783명의 코호트 규모를 유지하였다. 주요 자료에는 사회인구학적 정보, 고용 특성, 수면 패턴, 건강 결과 및 직장 성과 등이 포함된다. 초기 연구 결과는 직업적 신체활동이 생산성에 미치는 부정적 영향, 감정 노동이 건강 관련 생산성 손실에 미치는 영향, 그리고 수면 장애가 정신 건강에 미치는 중요성을 포함한 주요 연관성을 강조하고 있다. 본 코호트의 설계는 종단적 및 횡단적 추세에 대한 세부적인 분석을 가능하게 하여 변화하는 근로 환경이 건강 및 생산성에 미치는 영향을 심층적으로 이해할 수 있게 한다. KWSHS는 한국의 변화하는 노동 환경 속에서 직업 건강 및 생산성을 향상시키기 위한 근거 기반 개입을 위한 중요한 자원이 될 수 있다. 데이터 접근은 연구 책임자에게 요청을 통해 가능하다.

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The Impact of Comorbid Insomnia and Sleep Apnea (COMISA) on Work Ability: Results From Population‐Based Panel Data in Korea
Heejoo Ko, Seong‐Sik Cho, Dong‐Wook Lee, Jaesung Choi, Min‐Seok Kim, Mo‐Yeol Kang
Journal of Sleep Research.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Work ability and health-related productivity loss by chronotype: Results from population-based panel study
Heejoo Ko, Seong-Sik Cho, Mo-Yeol Kang
Sleep Health.2025; 11(5): 731. CrossRef
Work-related risk factors of sleep apnea: evidence from the Korean work, sleep, and health study
Heejoo Ko, Seong-Sik Cho, Hye-Eun Lee, Jeehee Min, Mo-Yeol Kang
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Association between work stress and sleep disturbances: the mediating role of pre-sleep arousal symptoms
Jeehee MIN, Hoje RYU, Seong-Sik CHO, Mo-Yeol KANG
Industrial Health.2025; 63(5): 478. CrossRef
Associations of self-rated health, depression, and work ability with employee control over working time
Heejoo Ko, Seong-Sik Cho, Jaesung Choi, Mo-Yeol Kang
Epidemiology and Health.2025; 47: e2025036. CrossRef
Workplace Psychosocial Safety Climate and Sleep Health: Association With Sleep Quality and Insomnia Symptoms
Jiwon Kim, Seong‐Sik Cho, Maureen F. Dollard, May Young Loh, Mo‐Yeol Kang
Journal of Sleep Research.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

7,202 View
345 Download
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6 Crossref

Case Report

Prostate cancer in workers exposed to night-shift work: two cases recognized by the Korean Epidemiologic Investigation Evaluation Committee: Sungkyun Park, Seongwon Ma, Hoekyeong Seo, Sang Gil Lee, Jihye Lee, Shinhee Ye; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e52. Published online December 7, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e52

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

In 2019, the International Agency for Research on Cancer re-evaluated the carcinogenicity of night-shift work and reported that there is limited evidence that night-shift work is carcinogenic for the development of prostate cancer. Therefore, in 2020 and 2021, the Korean Epidemiologic Investigation Evaluation Committee concluded that 2 cases of prostate cancer were occupational diseases related to the night-shift work. Here, we report the 2 cases of prostate cancer in night-shift workers which were first concluded as occupational diseases by the Korean Epidemiologic Investigation Evaluation Committee.

Case presentation

Patient A: A 61-year-old man worked as a city bus driver for approximately 17 years, from 2002 to 2019, and was exposed to night-shift work during this period. In March 2017, the patient was diagnosed with high-grade prostate cancer through core-needle biopsy after experiencing stinging pain lasting for 2 months. Patient B: A 56-year-old man worked as an electrician and an automated equipment operator in a cement manufacturing plant for 35 years from 1976 to 2013 and was exposed to night-shift work during this period. In 2013, the patient was diagnosed with high-grade prostate cancer through core needle biopsy at a university hospital because of dysuria that lasted for 6 months.

Conclusions

The 2 workers were diagnosed with high-grade prostate cancer after working night shifts for 17 and 35 years respectively. Additionally, previous studies have reported that high-grade prostate cancer has a stronger relationship with night-shift work than low or medium-grade prostate cancer. Therefore, the Korean Epidemiologic Investigation Evaluation Committee concluded that night-shift work in these 2 patients contributed to the development of their prostate cancer.

야간교대근무 근로자에서 발생한 전립선암 2례
배경
2019년 국제암연구소(IARC)은 야간교대근무의 발암성을 재평가하였고 야간교대근무와 전립선암이 양의 연관성을 가지고 있다고 보고하였다. 2020년과 2021년에 역학조사평가위원회는 두 명의 야간교대근무 근로자에서 발생한 전립선암이 야간교대근무와 관련된 직업병이라고 결론지었다. 따라서 국내에서 처음으로 직업병으로 인정된 야간교대근무 근로자에서 발생한 전립선암 2건의 사례를 소개하고자 한다.
증례
남성 근로자 A는 만 61세에 두 달간 지속된 찌르는 듯한 증상으로 비뇨기과를 방문하였고전립성특이항원 검사와 전립선 중심바늘생검을 받은 후 전립선암을 진단받았다. 근로자 A 는 2002년부터 2019년까지 시내버스를 운행하였고, 약 17년간 야간교대근무를 하면서 하루에 10시간 이상, 주당 6일간 업무를 수행하였다. 남성 근로자 B는 6개월간 지속된 배뇨곤란 증상으로 병원에서 중심바늘생검을 통해 전립선암을 진단받았다. 근로자 B는 1976년부터 2013년까지 시멘트 제조공장에서 전기기사와 자동화기기 오퍼레이터로 근무하였으며, 약 35년간 야간교대근무에 노출되었다. 근로자 A와 B는 전립선암 조직검사에서 Gleason’s score가 높은 공격적인 전립선암을 진단받았고, 업무 중 디젤엔진배출물질에도 노출되었다.
고찰
국제암연구소는 야간교대근무가 전립선암 발암성에 미치는 영향에 대해 제한적인 근거가 있다고 하였다. 이 외에도 2018년에 보고된 프랑스의 환자-대조군 연구는 긴 교대시간 길이(>10시간), 최소 6박 연속 야간근무, 장기간(20년 이상 또는 1,314일 이상)의 영구적인 야간근무가 공격적인 전립선암과 특히 유의한 연관성이 있다고 하였다. 몇 건의 메타분석 연구에서도 야간교대근무가 전립선암과 유의하다는 결과가 있었고, 특히 아시아 국가 남성에서 그 결과가 유의하다고 하였다. 또한, 디젤엔진배출물질과 전립선암이 유의한 연관성이 있다는 문헌이 일부 확인되었다. 따라서, 역학조사평가위원회는 두 근로자에서 발생한 전립선암에 대한 업무관련성의 과학적 근거가 상당하다고 판단하였다. 따라서, 야간교대근무가 전립선암 발병에 기여하는 위험성을 인지하고, 야간교대근무 근로자를 대상으로 작업시간 조절과 전립선암의 조기발견을 위한 적절한 건강검진 제공에 대한 고려가 필요하다.

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Relationship between non-standard work arrangements and work-related accident absence in Belgium
Hanan Alali, Lutgart Braeckman, Tanja Van Hecke, Bart De Clercq, Heidi Janssens, Magd Abdel Wahab
Journal of Occupational Health.2017; 59(2): 177. CrossRef

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Original Article

The impact of alcohol consumption on hearing loss in male workers with a focus on alcohol flushing reaction: the Kangbuk Samsung Cohort Study: Jaehong Lee, Youshik Jeong, Jihoon Kim, Seonghyeon Kwon, Eunhye Seo, Jinsook Jeong, Woncheol Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e1. Published online January 22, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e1

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Despite hearing loss being a prevalent chronic condition, estimated to nearly 20% of the global population by the World Health Organization, the specific association with individual lifestyle factors, particularly alcohol consumption, remains unclear. In South Korea, approximately 80% of the population engages in alcohol consumption, with a notably high prevalence among males, indicating a high-risk drinking pattern. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the correlation between alcohol consumption and hearing loss in male workers, as well as to analyze additional variables such as alcohol flushing reaction, with the intention of improving worker health.

Methods

The study was conducted from January 2012 to December 2019, targeting 114,114 participants who visited Kangbuk Samsung Hospital Total Healthcare Centers. Data were collected through pure-tone audiometry tests and alcohol-related questionnaire, and statistical analysis was performed using Cox regression analysis. Based on previous studies indicating a potential protective effect of light drinking on hearing loss, this group was designated as the reference. Additionally, stratified analyses were conducted based on the presence of alcohol flushing reaction and different working hours.

Results

The hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) for hearing loss was higher in the heavy drinking group (1.23 [1.11–1.37]) compared to the moderate drinking group (1.09 [0.98–1.20]). Stratified analyses revealed a significantly elevated the hazard ratio of hearing loss in groups with alcohol flushing reaction compared to those without this factor.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that moderate or heavy alcohol consumption in male workers can increase the risk of hearing loss, particularly in those with alcohol flushing reaction. These findings underscore the importance of addressing alcohol-related factors concerning hearing health among male workers.

알코올 안면홍조 중심으로 살펴본 남성 근로자에서 음주습관이 청력손실에 미치는 영향: 강북삼성 코호트연구
목적
청력손실은 세계보건기구(WHO)가 인구 20% 가까이로 그 유병률을 추정할 만큼 흔한 만성질환임에도 불구하고 개인의 생활습관 요인, 특히 음주에 따른 연관성은 아직 명확하게 밝혀진 바 없다. 한국건강증진개발원에 따르면 대한민국의 음주 인구는 80%에 육박하며 남성의 고위험 음주율이 특징적으로 높았다. 따라서 우리는 청력손실과 관련된 근로자 건강 증진을 도모하고자 남성 근로자에서 음주습관 및 청력손실 간 연관성 평가 및 알코올 안면홍조 추가 변수 분석을 수행하였다.
방법
연구는 2012년 1월부터 2019년 12월 사이 강북삼성병원 종합건강검진센터에 방문한 114,114명의 수검자들을 대상으로 이루어졌다. 순음청력검사 및 음주 설문으로 데이터를 수집하였고 통계 분석은 Cox 회귀분석을 실시하였다. 과거 연구들에서 가벼운 음주가 오히려 청력손실에 보호효과를 나타내었으므로 해당 그룹을 참조(reference)로 지정하였다. 추가적으로 알코올 안면홍조 여부에 따른 층화분석을 시행하였다.
결과
청력손실의 위험비(95% 신뢰구간)는 중간 음주 그룹 1.09(0.98-1.20)에 비해 대량 음주 그룹이 1.23(1.11-1.37)로 더 높았다. 층화분석에서는 알코올 안면홍조가 있는 음주 그룹에서의 청력손실 위험비가 그렇지 않은 음주 그룹보다 유의하게 높은 경향을 보였다.
결론
우리는 연구를 통해 남성 근로자들에서 중간 또는 대량 음주는 청력손실의 발생 위험을 높일 수 있고, 특히 알코올 안면홍조가 있는 남성 근로자들은 그 위험도가 더 증가함을 밝혀낼 수 있었다.

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Prevalence of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss among Truck Drivers: a Cross-Sectional Study in Lucknow
Anupam Mehrotra, Sheo P. Shukla, Arvind K. Shukla, Manish K. Manar, Shivendra K. Singh, Monica Mehrotra
Noise and Health.2025; 27(124): 72. CrossRef

6,838 View
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Original Article

Effect of psychosocial safety climate on work-family conflict and psychological health among working couples: Nurfazreen Aina Muhamad Nasharudin, Zhao Rui; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e27. Published online October 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e27

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background
The purpose of the study was to look into how work-family conflict (WFC), family-work conflict (FWC), and psychological health are affected by the psychosocial safety climate (PSC). First, the study suggested that for both husband and wife, PSC moderates the relationship between job demands and WFC. Second, the study predicted FWC mediates the relationship between WFC and depressive symptoms through the “crossover” process.
Methods
The study design used a multi-source sample that involved 350 teachers and their working spouses (n = 700). The analysis of mediation and moderation among job demands, WFC, FWC, PSC, and depressive symptoms was conducted using SPSS and structural equation modeling AMOS software.
Results
For the teacher’s sample, based on behavioral (β = 0.166, p < 0.05) and strain-based (β = 0.170, p < 0.05) aspects, the hierarchical regression analysis revealed that the PSC moderates the relationship between physical demand and WFC. The results also showed that the relationship between time-based WFC and emotional demand is moderated by PSC (β = 0.103, p < 0.05). Next, the analysis found that PSC moderates the association between cognitive demand and WFC of strain-based (β = 0.179, p < 0.05). For the spouse’s sample, according to the analysis, PSC moderates the relationship between strain-based WFC and physical demand (β = 0.091, p < 0.05). The study also revealed that FWC serves as a mediator in the relationship between WFC and depressive symptoms in both husbands (β = 0.233, p < 0.01) and wives (β = 0.135, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Overall, this study contributes significant insights to the current literature by examining the impact of PSC on the psychological well-being of individuals and others through the crossover process.

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Gender discrimination in the workplace and the onset of problematic alcohol use among female wage workers: A longitudinal study in Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jong-Uk Won
Social Science & Medicine.2025; 379: 118183. CrossRef
Validating the polish version of the psychosocial safety climate PSC-12 scale (PSC-12-PL): a multisample and multilevel study
Paweł Jurek, Michał Olech, Ali Afsharian, Maureen F. Dollard
Safety Science.2025; 191: 106956. CrossRef

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Original Article

Telecommuting during the COVID-19: the role of job demand and control on health outcomes: Seung-Woo Ryoo, Jin-Young Min, Seok-Yoon Son, Baek-Yong Choi, Juho Choi, Kyoung-Bok Min; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e14. Published online June 14, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e14

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic drastically modified the occupational system wherein telecommuting has risen as the major form of work. Few studies have incorporated Karasek’s job demand-control (JDC) model into explaining the health effects of telecommuting. This study aimed to investigate the health risk in South Korean telecommuters during the pandemic, and its distribution according to the job stress-related factors.

Methods

A nationwide population-based cross-sectional study of South Korean laborers was conducted, utilizing the 6th Korean Working Conditions Survey (2020–2021). Following the previously described concept of telecommuting, 14,478 white-collar employees were eligible study participants. Telecommuting, job demand, job control, and various health indicators were measured by the responses to the survey. Participants were stratified into 4 job profiles classified by the JDC model. We conducted multiple logistic regression analyses between telecommuting and health-related outcomes to estimate the odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

One hundred forty-six low-strain, 223 active, 69 passive, and 148 high-strain workers were screened as telecommuters. Compared to office workers, telecommuters had a higher proportion in high job control groups. Subgroup analysis demonstrated different relationships between telecommuting and health, where only active telecommuters showed a higher prevalence of depression (OR: 1.980, 95% CI: 1.126–3.481), and high-strain telecommuters were affected in most outcomes including insomnia (OR: 2.555, 95% CI: 1.473–4.433), musculoskeletal pain (OR: 2.786, 95% CI: 1.719–4.517), headache/eye strain (OR: 3.074, 95% CI: 1.992–4.745) and presenteeism (OR: 1.932, 95% CI: 1.193–3.131).

Conclusions

This study revealed significantly increased odds of multiple health outcomes among South Korean telecommuters during the COVID-19 pandemic era. High-strain job holders were prominently susceptible to the negative health impacts of telecommuting. Occupational health management towards telecommuters should approach mitigating high job demand and low job control.

코로나19 시기 재택근무: 건강 결과에 대한 직무 요구와 직무 재량의 역할
목적
코로나19 팬데믹으로 인해 재택근무는 직무 체계에서 주요한 업무 형태로 떠올랐다. 재택근무가 노동자의 건강에 미치는 영향을 설명하는데 있어 직무 요구-재량 모델을 도입한 연구가 부족하다. 본 연구는 팬데믹 기간 동안 한국 재택근무자들의 건강 위험과 상기 직무 스트레스 관련 요인에 따른 분포를 조사하는 것을 목표로 했다.
방법
본 연구는 제6차 근로환경조사(2020~2021년)를 활용하여 한국 노동자에 대한 전국 인구 기반 횡단면 연구를 실시했다. 이전 연구에서 확립한 재택근무 개념에 따라 14,478명의 화이트 칼라 피고용인 노동자들을 적격집단으로 선정했다. 설문조사 응답 결과를 토대로 재택근무, 직무 요구, 직무 재량 및 다양한 건강 지표를 측정했다. 연구대상자들을 직무 요구-재량 모델에 따라 분류된 네 가지 직무 유형으로 구분하였고, 다중 로지스틱 회귀분석을 시행하여 재택근무 여부에 따른 건강 변수의 오즈비(OR)와 95% 신뢰구간(CI)을 측정하였다.
결과
저-긴장 노동자 146명, 능동적 노동자 223명, 수동적 노동자 69명, 고-긴장 노동자148명이 재택근무자로 분류되었다. 통근근무자와 비교했을 때, 재택근무자들은 직무 재량이 높은 군에서 그 비중이 높았다. 층화분석 결과 재택근무와 건강 사이의 연관성은 군별로 상이하였는데, 오직 능동적 재택근무자들만이 통근근무자들보다 높은 우울증 유병률을 보였고 (OR 1.980, 95% CI 1.126-3.481) 고-긴장 재택근무자들이 가장 많은 결과 변수에서 유의한 오즈비를 보였다; 불면증 (OR 2.555, 95% CI 1.473-4.433), 근골격계 통증 (OR 2.786, 95% CI 1.719-4.517), 두통/안구 피로 (OR 3.074, 95% CI 1.992-4.745), 상병 시 근무 (OR 1.932, 95% CI 1.193-3.131).
결론
본 연구에 따르면 코로나19 팬데믹 기간 동안 한국 재택근무자들에서 다수의 건강 문제가 발생할 오즈가 유의하게 증가하였다. 그중 고-긴장 업무에 종사하는 노동자들은 재택근무가 건강에 미치는 부정적인 영향에 가장 취약하였다. 따라서 재택근무자들에 대한 산업보건 관리는 높은 직무 요구와 낮은 직무 재량을 완화하는 방향으로 접근해야 할 것이다.

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Impact of Teleworking on Work‐Related and Home‐Related Stress at During the First Global Lockdown–The International COVISTRESS Study
Sébastien Couarraze, Guillaume Decormeille, Louis Delamarre, Fouad Marhar, Karen Gbaglo, Raimundo Avilès Dorlhiac, Mickael Berthon, Andy Su‐I Liu, Samuel Antunes, Bruno Pereira, Julien S Baker, Morteza Charkhabi, Ukadike C Ugbolue, Reza Bagheri, José J. G
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Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2025; 37: e12. CrossRef

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Data Profile

Data resource profile: the Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS): Yoonho Cho; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e49. Published online November 23, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e49

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

The Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS) is a state-approved statistical survey that has been conducted by the Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute (OSHRI) every 3 years since 2006 to monitor changes in the working conditions of Koreans. This cross-sectional national survey involves a sample of 50,000 employed people aged 15 or older. KWCS measures various working conditions through > 130 survey questions, including questions regarding working hours, labor intensity, work–life balance, degree of exposure to risk factors, and subjective health status. Professional survey interviewers visit households and conduct face to face interviews. KWCS provides data and statistics for occupational safety and health polices and research in Korea. Furthermore, OSHRI holds academic conferences every year, awards high-quality academic papers, and supports researchers using data. Microdata is publicly available through the OSHRI website (https://oshri.kosha.or.kr).

자료원 프로파일: 근로환경조사
KWCS는 국가승인통계로 대한민국에 거주하는 만15세 이상 취업자 5만명을 표본으로 매 3년마다 실시하는 단면적 조사로, 2006년부터 산업안전보건연구원에서 실시하고 있다. KWCS는 전문조사원에 의해 가구를 방문하여 1:1 면접 조사로 이루어지며, 근무시간, 노동강도, 일과 삶의 균형, 유해위험요인에 대한 노출 정도, 주관적 건강상태 등 다양한 근로환경에 대해 130여개 이상의 문항에 대해 조사한다. 조사 결과는 정책 수립과 연구자를 위한 기초 자료로 제공하고 있으며, 마이크로데이터는 산업안전보건연구원 홈페이지(OSHRI.OR.KR)를 통해 공개하고 있다.

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Original Article

Developing a short standard questionnaire for assessing work organization hazards: the Healthy Work Survey (HWS): BongKyoo Choi, Youngju Seo; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e7. Published online April 27, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e7

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background

At present, no short standard questionnaire exists for assessing and comparing major work organization hazards in the workplaces of the United States.

Methods

We conducted a series of psychometric tests (content validity, factor analysis, differential-item functioning analysis, reliability, and concurrent validity) to validate and identify core items and scales for major work organization hazards using the data from the 2002–2014 General Social Surveys (GSSs), including the Quality of Worklife (QWL) questionnaire. In addition, an extensive literature review was undertaken to find other major work organization hazards which were not addressed in the GSS.

Results

Although the overall validity of the GSS-QWL questionnaire was satisfactory in the psychometric tests, some GSS-QWL items of work-family conflict, psychological job demands, job insecurity, use of skills on the job, and safety climate scales appeared to be weak. In the end, 33 questions (31 GSS-QWL and 2 GSS) were chosen as the least, but best validated core questions and included in a new short standard questionnaire (called the Healthy Work Survey [HWS]). And their national norms were established for comparisons. Furthermore, based on the literature review, fifteen more questions for assessing other significant work organization hazards (e.g., lack of scheduling control, emotional demands, electronic surveillance, wage theft) were included in the new questionnaire. Thus, the HWS includes 48 questions in total for assessing traditional and emerging work organization hazards, which covers seven theoretical domains: work schedule/arrangement, control, support, reward, demands, safety, and justice.

Conclusions

The HWS is a short standard questionnaire for assessing work organization hazards which can be used as a first step toward the risk management of major work organization hazards in the workplaces of the US.

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Original Article

The relationship between shift work pattern and thyroid stimulating hormone in female workers: Hun Jeong, Chang Ho Chae, Jun Ho Lee, Hyo Won Chong; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e14. Published online June 22, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e14

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

Shift work is known to cause changes in the circadian rhythm of the human body and adversely affect not only physical health but also mental health. Some studies have demonstrated the correlation between shift work and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), a hormone that changes according to the diurnal rhythm, but few studies have reported the different TSH levels according to the shift work type. This study aimed to investigate changes in TSH according to the shift work type.

Methods

This study included 1,318 female workers who had a medical checkup at a university hospital in Changwon from 2015 to 2019. Shift work types were classified as non-shift work, regular 2 shifts, and irregular three shifts, and a TSH ≥ 4.2 mIU/L was defined as abnormal. A general linear model (GLM) was used to compare the TSH levels and the risk of subclinical hypothyroidism in each year, and a binary logistic analysis was performed using a generalized estimation equation (GEE) to compare the risk of subclinical hypothyroidism over the 5-year period.

Results

Of the 1,318 participants included in this study, 363, 711, and 244 were non-shift, two-shift, and irregular three-shift workers, respectively. In the GEE analysis, after adjusting for age, body mass index, smoking, and alcohol consumption, the odds ratios (ORs) were 1.81 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15–2.86; p = 0.011) in 2 shifts and 2.02 (95% CI: 1.23–3.32; p = 0.006) in irregular three shifts, compared to non-shift.

Conclusions

Our results showed that shift work had a higher risk of subclinical hypothyroidism than non-shift work and that there was a significant difference in the risk of subclinical hypothyroidism according to the shift work type. These findings suggest that the shift work type can be considered in future thyroid function tests and evaluations.

여성근로자에서 교대근무유형과 갑상선 자극 호르몬과의 연관성
목적
교대근무는 인체의 일중리듬에 변화를 일으키고 심혈관 질환, 소화기 질환 및 대사증후군과 같은 신체적 건강 뿐만 아니라 수면장애, 우울감 등을 포함한 정신건강에도 유해한 영향을 끼치는 것으로 알려져 있다. 일중리듬에 의해 변화하는 호르몬 중 하나인 갑상선 자극 호르몬(TSH)의 농도가 교대근무와의 연관성을 보여주는 연구들이 있으나 교대근무 유형에 따른 차이를 살펴본 연구는 부족한 실정이다. 본 연구는 교대근무의 유형에 따른 TSH의 변화를 알아보고자 하였다.
방법
2015년부터 2019년까지 창원의 일개 대학병원의 건강진단을 받은 1,318명의 여성근로자를 대상으로 연구를 진행하였다. 교대근무유형은 비교대근무, 규칙적 2교대 및 불규칙 3교대로 분류하였으며 TSH ≥ 4.2mIU/L인 경우 이상이 있는 것으로 정의하였다. 연도별로 TSH의 농도를 비교하기 위하여 일반선형모델을 사용하였으며 5년간의 불현성 갑상선기능저하증의 위험도를 비교하기 위하여 일반화추정방정식을 사용하여 이분형 로지스틱 분석을 시행하였다.
결과
연구 대상자 1,318명 중 비교대근무자는 총 363명, 2교대 근무자는 총 711명, 불규칙 3교대 근무자는 총 244명이었다. 연령, 체질량지수(BMI), 흡연, 음주를 보정하고 일반화추정방정식을 사용하여 이분형 로지스틱 분석을 시행한 결과, 비교대근무자를 기준으로 하였을 때, OR은 2교대 근무자에서 1.81(95% CI 1.15-2.86, P=0.011), 불규칙 3교대 근무자에서 2.02(95% CI 1.23-3.32, P=0.006)로 나왔다.
결론
본 연구의 결과는 교대근무가 비교대근무에 비해 불현성 갑상선기능저하증의 위험도가 높았으며 교대근무의 유형에 따른 불현성 갑상선기능저하증의 위험도에 있어 유의미한 차이를 보였다. 이는 이전 연구들의 결과를 뒷받침할 뿐만 아니라 향후 갑상선 기능 검사 및 평가에 있어 교대근무의 유형이 고려대상이 될 수 있을 것으로 생각된다.

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Original Article

Association between serum perfluoroalkyl substances concentrations and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease among Korean adults: a cross-sectional study using the National Environmental Health Survey cycle 4: Yong Tae Park, Eui Yup Chung, Chang Ho Chae, Young Hoon Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e10. Published online April 8, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e10

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used in industry and daily life due to their useful properties. They have a long half-life, accumulate in the body, and there is evidence that they are associated with biomarkers of lipid metabolism and liver damage. This may suggest non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) caused by PFAS. However, since there has been no study analyzing the relationship between PFAS and NAFLD in the entire population in Korea. We sought to confirm the relationship between serum PFAS concentration and NAFLD prevalence in Korean adults using the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycle 4.

Methods

The study was conducted on 2,529 subjects in 2018–2019 among KoNEHS participants. For the diagnosis of NAFLD, the hepatic steatosis index (HSI) was used, and the geometric mean and concentration distribution of serum PFAS were presented. Logistic regression was performed to confirm the increase in the risk of NAFLD due to changes in PFAS concentration, and the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated.

Results

In both adjusted and unadjusted models, an increased odds ratio was observed with increasing serum concentrations of total PFAS and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in the non-obese group. In the adjusted model, the odds ratios for serum total PFAS and PFOS were 6.401 (95% CI: 1.883–21.758) and 7.018 (95% CI: 2.688–18.319).

Conclusions

In this study, a higher risk of NAFLD based on HSI was associated with serum total PFAS, PFOS in non-obese group. Further research based on radiological or histological evidence for NAFLD diagnosis and long-term prospective studies are necessary. Accordingly, it is necessary to find ways to reduce exposure to PFAS in industry and daily life.

대한민국 성인의 혈청 과불화화합물 농도와 비알코올성 지방간 질환의 연관성 : 제4기 국민환경보건 기초조사를 이용한 단면연구
목적
과불화 화합물(이하 PFAS)는 그 유용한 특성들로 인하여 산업 및 일상생활에 널리 사용되는 물질이다. 이들은 긴 반감기를 지녀 생체 내에 축적되며, 지질 대사 및 간 손상의 바이오마커들과 연관이 있다는 여러 증거들이 있다. 이는 PFAS와 비알코올성 지방간(이하 NAFLD)의 연관성을 시사할 수 있다. 그러나 국내 전체 인구를 대상으로 PFAS와 NAFLD간의 연관성을 분석한 연구는 없었기에 제4주기 국민환경보건 기초조사를 이용하여 대한민국 성인에서 혈청 PFAS의 농도와 NAFLD 유병률 간의 연관성을 확인하고자 하였다.
방법
제4주기 국민환경보건 기초조사 참여자 중 2018-2019년 대상자 2595명을 대상으로 연구를 진행하였다. NAFLD의 진단을 위해 Hepatic Steatosis Index(이하 HSI)를 사용하였으며, 혈청 PFAS의 기하평균 및 농도 분포를 제시하였다. PFAS의 농도 변화에 따른 NAFLD의 위험도 증가를 확인하기 위하여 로지스틱 회귀분석을 시행하였으며 이에 대한 교차비와 95% 신뢰구간을 산출하였다.
결과
조정되지 않은 모델 및 조정된 모델의 비만하지 않은 그룹에서 혈청 총 PFAS, PFOS의 농도 증가에 따른 교차비의 증가를 확인할 수 있었다. 조정된 모델에서 혈청 총 PFAS 및 PFOS의 교차비는 각각 6.401 (95% CI 1.883–21.758) and 7.018 (95% CI 2.688-18.319)으로 나타났다.
결론
본 연구에서 HSI에 기초한 NAFLD의 더 높은 위험은 비만하지 않은 군에서 혈청 총 PFAS 및 PFOS와 유의한 연관성을 보였다. PFAS에 의한 NAFLD 발생의 위험에 대한 영상 또는 조직 병리에 기반한 추가 연구가 필요하며, 일상 생활 및 산업 전반에 있어 PFAS에의 노출을 줄이기 위한 방법의 모색이 필요하다.

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Xiushuai Du, Dan-Lin Li, Xueming Xu, Yitian Wu, Zhiyuan Du, Gang Liang, Yue-Zu Li, Ya-Jie Zheng, Yu Qin, Kelei Qian, Jing Xu, Liping Gao, Gonghua Tao, Chen-Wei Pan, Weiwei Zheng
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Original Article

Association between single-person household wage workers in South Korea and insomnia symptoms: the 6th Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS): Yoon Ho Lee, Yong-Jin Lee, Eun-Chul Jang, Young-Sun Min, Soon-Chan Kwon; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e25. Published online September 6, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e25

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background
The rise in single-person households is a global phenomenon with well-documented implications for both physical and mental well-being. However, there remains a scarcity of studies focusing specifically on the health impacts of single-person households on workers. This study aims to address this gap by comparing insomnia symptoms between single- and multi-person household workers, shedding light on the health implications of household composition.
Methods
This study utilized data from the Sixth Korean Working Conditions Survey. Insomnia symptoms were categorized into normal sleep and insomnia symptom groups utilizing the 3-item Minimal Insomnia Symptom Scale. Multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the association between single-person household wage workers and insomnia symptoms.
Results
In comparison to wage workers from multi-person households, those from single-person households exhibited heightened risks of reporting insomnia symptoms. In the fully adjusted model, the odds ratios for symptoms of insomnia among single-person household wage workers was 1.173 (95% confidence interval: 1.020–1.349).
Conclusions
This study underscores that single-person household wage workers in Korea face an elevated risk of insomnia symptoms compared to their counterparts in multi-person households.

한국 1인 가구 임금근로자와 불면증 증상들의 연관성: 제6차 한국근로환경조사 (KWCS)
목적
기존 연구에 의하면 1인 가구와 건강 문제는 부정적인 연관성을 보이는 것으로 알려져 있으나 1인 가구 임금 근로자들에 대한 연구는 부족해 보인다. 이에 임금 근로자들을 대상으로 1인 가구의 불면증 증상의 실태를 파악하고 다인 가구 임금 근로자들과 비교하여 1인 가구 근로자가 건강에 어떠한 영향을 미치는지 연구해보고자 한다.
방법
이 연구는 제6차 근로환경조사의 원시자료를 이용한 단면 연구이다. 불면증 증상의 경우 Minimal Insomnia Symptom Scale (MISS)를 사용하여 평가되었다. 다인 가구 임금 근로자군과 비교했을 때 1인 가구 임금 근로자군과 불면증 증상 간의 연관성을 연구하기 위해 다중 로지스틱 회귀분석을 실시하였다.
결과
다인 가구 임금 근로자군과 비교했을 때 1인 가구 임금 근로자군의 불면증 증상에 대한 교차비(OR)은 1.173 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.020-1.349)로 나타났다.
결론
연구 결과 한국의 1인 가구 임금 근로자는 다인 가구 임금 근로자에 비해 불면증 증상을 보일 위험이 높은 것으로 나타났다. 1인 가구 근로자의 증가 추세는 근로자의 건강에 영향을 미치는 요인으로서 관심이 필요할 것으로 생각된다.

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Original Article

Association between unpredictable work schedule and work-family conflict in Korea: Sang Moon Choi, Chan Woo Kim, Hyoung Ouk Park, Yong Tae Park; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e46. Published online November 10, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e46

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

As unpredictable work schedule (UWS) has increased worldwide, various studies have been conducted on the resulting health effects on workers. However, research on the effect of UWS on workers' well-being in Korea is still insufficient. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between UWS and work-family conflict (WFC) using 6th Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS).

Methods

Both UWS and WFC were measured using self-reported questionnaires, using data from the 6th KWCS conducted between 2020 and 2021, including 31,859 participants. UWS was measured by questions regarding the frequency of changes in work schedules and limited advanced notice. WFC was measured by questions regarding work to family and family to work conflicts. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the association between UWS and WFC.

Results

The prevalence of UWS was higher among men, those under 40 years old, service and sales workers and blue-collar workers, and those with higher salaries. Workplace size also influenced UWS prevalence, with smaller workplaces (less than 50 employees) showing a higher prevalence. The odds ratio (OR) for WFC was significantly higher in workers with UWS compared to workers without UWS after adjusting for gender, age, marital status, occupation, salary, education, weekly working hours, shift work, company size, and having a child under the age of 18 years, employment status (OR: 3.71; 95% confidence interval: 3.23–4.25).

Conclusions

The analysis of nationwide data revealed that UWS interferes with workers’ performance of family roles, which can lead to WFC. Our findings suggest that it is crucial to implement policies to address unfair work schedule management, promoting a healthier work-life balance and fostering a conducive environment for family responsibilities.

예측 불가능한 근무 일정과 일-가정 갈등의 연관성
목적
전 세계적으로 예측 불가능한 근무 일정(unpredictable work schedule, UWS)이 증가함에 따라, 근로자에게 미치는 건강 영향에 대한 다양한 연구가 진행되었다. 그러나, UWS가 근로자의 삶에 미치는 영향에 대한 국내 연구는 아직 미흡하다. 본 연구는 제6차 한국근로환경조사(Korean Working Conditions Survey, KWCS)를 이용하여 UWS와 일-가정 갈등(Work-Family Conflict, WFC)의 관계를 알아보고자 하였다.
방법
2020년과 2021년 사이에 수행된 제6차 KWCS의 데이터를 사용하여 총 31859명이 연구 대상으로 포함되었고 UWS와 WFC는 모두 자기기입식 설문을 통해 측정되었다. UWS는 업무 일정의 변경 빈도 및 제한된 사전통지에 관한 질문으로 측정되었으며, WFC는 업무로부터 발생하는 가족 갈등과 및 가족으로 발생하는 업무 갈등에 관한 질문으로 측정되었다. UWS와 WFC의 연관성을 조사하기 위해 로지스틱 회귀 분석을 수행하였다.
결과
UWS는 남성, 40세미만, 서비스 및 판매 종사자, 블루칼라 종사자, 그리고 더 높은 급여를 받는 사람들 사이에서 더 많았다. 작업장 규모도 UWS에 영향을 미쳤으며, 소규모 작업장(직원 수 50명 미만)에서 더 많았습니다. WFC의 오즈비는 성별, 연령, 결혼 여부, 직업, 급여, 교육, 주간 근로시간, 교대근무, 회사 규모, 18세 미만 자녀 여부, 정규직 여부를 보정한 후 나타난 결과에서 UWS가 없는 근로자에 비해 UWS가 있는 근로자에서 유의하게 높았다(OR: 3.78, 95% CI: 3.28-4.34).
결론
전국적인 자료를 분석한 결과, UWS가 근로자의 가족 역할 수행을 방해하여 WFC를 유발할 수 있는 것으로 나타났다. 본 연구는 근로자에게 건강한 일과 삶의 균형을 제공하고 가족 역할을 수행하기 좋은 환경을 조성하기 위해 불공정한 근무 일정 관리를 해소시키는 정책의 필요성을 시사한다.

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Original Article

Occupational disease issues in high-tech industries of South Korea: analysis of governmental data on the semiconductor and display industries: Chungsik Yoon, Jinjoo Chung, Jongran Lee, Kwonchul Ha, Joseph DiGangi, Jeong-Ok Kong; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e6. Published online March 24, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e6

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF: Background
This study analyzed occupational diseases compensated through the government system in the Korean electronics industry and observed changes in the rationale for compensation.
Methods
Data from the Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service (KWCWS) from 2012 to 2023 were analyzed to examine occupational disease issues in South Korea's semiconductor and display industries.
Results
KWCWS received 174 occupational disease claims between 2012 and 2023, with 88 (50.6%) approved. The case of a 22-year-old semiconductor worker who died from leukemia has raised awareness and appears to be leading to more claims and higher approval rates. Cancer-related claims, particularly for breast and blood cancers, were the most common. Since 2018, the approval rate for occupational diseases has increased to 60%, which may have been influenced by the Supreme Court's Principle of Presumption of Occupational Diseases and the government’s reduction of the burden of proof. However, approval rates remain lower in small- and medium-sized enterprises (38.0%) compared to large corporations (55.6%), likely because of better documentation and unionization in the latter. The semiconductor industry had more claims and approvals than the LCD industry, primarily due to its longer operational history and greater chemical exposure.
Conclusions
In South Korea, the increasing approval rate of occupational diseases in the electronics industry from 2012 to 2023 appears to reflect changes in how causal relationships and occupational health policies have been implemented and this is likely due to stakeholder involvement and relevant legal decisions.; 반도체 및 디스플레이 산업의 정부자료 분석으로 본 한국 첨단 산업에서의 직업병 이슈
목적
본 연구는 한국 전자산업에서 산재보험 보상 승인된 직업병을 분석하고 보상 근거의 변화를 관찰하였다.
방법
2012년부터 2023년까지 근로복지공단의 데이터를 분석하여 한국의 반도체 및 디스플레이 산업에서 직업병의 신청과 승인을 연도별, 업종별, 규모별로 분석하였다.
결과
2012년부터 2023년까지 근로복지공단에 접수된 직업병 산재보상 신청은 174건이고 이 중 88건(51%)이 승인되었다. 2007년 한 반도체 노동자의 백혈병 사망을 계기로 직업병에 대한 인식이 높아져, 산재보상 신청 건수가 증가하고 승인률도 높아진 것으로 추정된다. 신청 상병은 암, 특히 유방암과 혈액암이 가장 많았다. 대법원이 직업병 추정 원칙을 판시하고 정부가 입증 부담을 완화한 것이 2018년 이후 직업병 승인률을 60%까지 증가하는데 기여하였다. 그러나 중소기업(38%)의 승인률은 대기업(56%)에 비해 여전히 낮은데, 이는 대기업에서 기록을 더 잘 보관하고 노조 조직률도 더 높은 것이 영향을 주었을 것이다. 반도체 산업은 LCD 산업보다 산재 신청 건수와 승인 건수가 더 많은데, 이는 반도체 산업의 역사가 더 길며 화학물질 노출이 더 크기 때문으로 추정된다.
결론
연구 기간 동안 전자업체에서의 대부분 직업병은 혈액암과 유방암과 같은 암이었고 직업병 산재 승인의 증가는 이해관계자의 참여와 사회 이슈화, 유연해진 법원 판결, 산재보험제도 등이 큰 영향을 미쳤을 것이다.

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Review

List of occupational diseases among farmers in Korea: a literature review: Hansoo Song, Seok-Ju Yoo, Won-Ju Park, Seunghyeon Cho, Ki Soo Park, Joo Hyun Sung, Sang Jin Park, Seong-yong Yoon, Kyeongsoo Kim, Dong-phil Choi, Hye-min Kim, Bounggyun Ju, Kanwoo Youn; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e2. Published online February 19, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e2; Correction in: Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37(0):e16

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material: A comprehensive list of occupational diseases among farmers is crucial for both compensation and prevention efforts. In Korea, most farmers are self-employed, and some occupational diseases are compensated through farmer safety insurance. However, it is not harmonized with industrial accident compensation insurance and does not adequately reflect the true burden of occupational diseases among farmers. To address this gap, the authors compiled a list of occupational diseases tailored to Korean farmers by reviewing the International Labor Organization’s list of occupational diseases, the Korean Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance List, the occupational disease lists of other countries, and relevant literature on farmers’ work-related diseases.; 한국 농업인의 직업성 질병 목록: 문헌고찰
농업인의 직업병에 대한 포괄적인 목록은 질병보상과 예방을 위해 중요하다. 한국에서 농업인의 대부분은 자영업자로 근로자에게 적용되는 산업재해보상보험의 적용을 받지 못하고 일부 직업성질환에 대해서만 정책보험인 농업인안전보험을 통해 보상되고 있다. 그러나 이러한 보상은 산업재해보상보험과 조화를 이루지 못하고 있으며, 농업인에게 실제 부담을 주고 있는 직업성 질병을 반영하지 못하고 있다. 이러한 문제를 개선하기 위해 저자들은 국제노동지구의 직업병 목록, 한국의 산업재해보상보험법 상 업무관련성 질병 목록, 다른 국가들의 직업병 목록 및 농업인의 업무관련성 질병에 대한 문헌을 검토하여, 한국 농업인에게 적합한 직업병 목록을 작성하였다.

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Special Article

Occupational stress (KOSS^®19): scale development and validation in the Korean context: Hansoo Song, Hyoung Ryoul Kim, Inah Kim, Jin-Ha Yoon, Sang-Baek Koh, Sung-Soo Oh, Hee-Tae Kang, Da-Yee Jeung, Dae-Sung Hyun, Chunhui Suh, Sei-Jin Chang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e12. Published online May 7, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e12

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background
The Korean Occupational Stress Scale (KOSS) was developed in 2004. During this time, industrial structures have evolved, and societal awareness of occupational stress has changed. This study aims to develop and validate a revised version of the Korean Occupational Stress Scale (KOSS®19), tailored for workers, reflecting these changes.
Methods
The KOSS®19 was developed based on the 26-item KOSS–short form (SF) through a review by eight experts. A survey was conducted including 359 service industry workers, comprising the KOSS®19, Burnout, and Depression scales. The KOSS®19 subscales were restructured, and their reliability and validity were evaluated.
Results
The KOSS®19 composed of eight subscales: hazardous physical environment (2 items), high job demand (3 items), insufficient job control (2 items), low social support (2 items), job insecurity (2 items), organizational injustice (4 items), lack of reward (2 items), and work-life imbalance (2 items). The reliability and validity of the KOSS®19 were found to be satisfactory.
Conclusions
The KOSS®19 is a suitable tool for assessing occupational stress, effectively replacing the original KOSS and KOSS-SF.

직무 스트레스: 한국적 맥락에서의 척도 개발 및 타당화
목적
한국형 직무스트레스 척도(KOSS)가 2004년에 개발된 이후 산업 구조가 변화하고 직무 스트레스에 대한 사회적 인식도 달라졌다. 본 연구는 이러한 변화를 반영하여 한국형 직무스트레스 척도 개정판(KOSS®19)을 개발하고 타당성을 검증하는 것을 목적으로 한다.
방법
KOSS®19는 기존의 26문항 KOSS-SF를 기반으로 8명의 전문가 검토를 거쳐 개발되었다. 서비스업 종사자 359명을 대상으로 KOSS®19, 소진(Burnout) 척도, 우울 척도를 포함한 설문조사를 실시하였으며, KOSS®19의 요인을 재구성하고 신뢰도 및 타당도를 평가하였다.
결과
KOSS®19는 8개 요인으로 구성되었다: 위해물리환경(2문항), 높은직무요구 (3문항), 직무자율성결여(2문항), 낮은사회적지지(2문항), 직업불안정(2문항), 조직불공정(4문항), 보상부적절(2문항), 일-삶의불균형 (2문항). KOSS®19의 신뢰도 및 타당도는 만족할 만한 수준으로 확인되었다.
결론
KOSS®19는 직무 스트레스를 평가하는 데 적절한 도구로, 기존 KOSS 및 KOSS-SF를 효과적으로 대체할 수 있다.

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Work-related risk factors of sleep apnea: evidence from the Korean work, sleep, and health study
Heejoo Ko, Seong-Sik Cho, Hye-Eun Lee, Jeehee Min, Mo-Yeol Kang
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

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Original Article

The association of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure and kidney function in Korean adolescents using data from Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycle 4 (2018–2020): a cross-sectional study: Jisuk Yun, Eun-Chul Jang, Soon-Chan Kwon, Young-Sun Min, Yong-Jin Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e5. Published online March 15, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e5

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals widely used in various products in everyday life. Due to its unique strong binding force, the half-life of PFAS is very long, so bioaccumulation and toxicity to the human body are long-standing concerns. In particular, effects on kidney function have recently emerged and there are no studies on the effect of PFAS on kidney function through epidemiological investigations in Korea. From 2018 to 2020, the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycle 4, conducted an epidemiological investigation on the blood concentration of PFAS for the first time in Korea. Based on this data, the relationship between PFAS blood concentration and kidney function was analyzed for adolescents.

Methods

We investigated 5 types of PFAS and their total blood concentration in 811 middle and high school students, living in Korea and included in KoNEHS cycle 4, and tried to find changes in kidney function in relation to PFAS concentration. After dividing the concentration of each of the 5 PFAS and the total concentration into quartiles, multivariable linear regression was performed to assess the correlation with kidney function. The bedside Schwartz equation was used as an indicator of kidney function.

Results

As a result of multivariable linear regression, when observing a change in kidney function according to the increase in the concentration of each of the 5 PFAS and their total, a significant decrease in kidney function was confirmed in some or all quartiles.

Conclusions

In this cross-sectional study of Korean adolescents based on KoNEHS data, a negative correlation between serum PFAS concentration and kidney function was found. A well-designed longitudinal study and continuous follow-up are necessary.

제 4기 국민환경보건 기초조사(2018-2020) 자료를 바탕으로 한 대한민국 청소년의 과불화 화합물 노출과 신장기능과의 상관관계 연구
목적
과불화 화합물은 일상생활에서 다양한 제품에 널리 쓰이는 화학물질이다. 특유의 강한 결합력으로 인한 반감기가 매우 길기 때문에 이로 인한 생물농축과 인체에 끼치는 독성작용은 오랫동안 큰 관심사이다. 최근에는 특히 신기능에 미치는 영향이 주목받고 있으나 국내에서는 대규모 역학조사를 통한 PFAS가 신기능에 미치는 영향에 대한 조사가 전무한 실정이다. 2018년부터 2020년까지 실시된 국민환경보건 기초조사는 국내 최초로 과불화 화합물의 혈중농도에 대한 대규모 역학조사를 실시했다. 이 자료를 바탕으로 국내 최초로 청소년을 대상으로 하여 과불화 화합물의 혈중농도와 신장기능의 관계를 분석하였다.
방법
제 4기 국민환경보건 기초조사에 포함된 국내에 거주하는 중, 고등학생 828명을 대상으로 5종의 과불화 화합물의 혈중 농도를 조사하고 농도에 따른 신장기능의 변화를 알아보고자 하였다. 5종의 과불화 화합물 각각의 농도와 총 합의 농도를 사분위수로 나눈 후 다중선형회귀분석을 실시하여 신기능과의 상관관계를 분석하였다.
결과
다중선형회귀분석 결과 5종의 과불화 화합물 각각의 농도와 총 합의 농도 증가에 따라 일부 또는 전체 사분위수에서 통계적으로 유의한 신장기능의 감소가 확인되었다.
결론
제 4기 국민환경보건 기초조사 자료를 바탕으로 한국 청소년을 대상으로 한 이번 단면연구에서는 혈중 과불화 화합물의 농도와 신기능 사이에 음의 상관관계가 있음을 발견하였다. 잘 설계된 종단연구와 지속적인 추적관찰이 필요하다.

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Special Issue

Statement by the Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Medicine on the proposed reform of working hours in South Korea: Hee-Tae Kang, Chul-Ju Kim, Dong-Wook Lee, Seung-Gwon Park, Jinwoo Lee, Kanwoo Youn, Hwan-Cheol Kim, Kyoung Sook Jeong, Hansoo Song, Sung-Kyung Kim, Sang-Baek Koh; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e17. Published online July 5, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e17

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

The current 52-hour workweek in South Korea consists of 40 hours of regular work and 12 hours of overtime. Although the average working hours in South Korea is declining, it is still 199 hours longer than the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development average of 1,716 hours per year. In view to this, the South Korean government has now proposed to reform the workweek, mainly intending to increase the workweek to 69 hours when the workload is heavy. This reform, by increasing the labor intensity due to long working hours, goes against the global trend of reducing work hours for a safe and healthy working environment. Long working hours can lead to increased cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases, industrial accidents, mental health problems, and safety accidents due to lack of concentration. In conclusion, the Korean government’s working hour reform plan can have a negative impact on workers’ health, and therefore it should be thoroughly reviewed and modified.

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Association between long working hours and cigarette smoking, leisure-time physical activity, and risky alcohol use: Findings from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2014–2021)
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Preventive Medicine.2023; 175: 107691. CrossRef

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Special Article

Emotional labor (KELS^®11): scale development and validation in the Korean context: Da-Yee Jeung, Hyoung Ryoul Kim, Hansoo Song, Inah Kim, Jin-Ha Yoon, Sang-Baek Koh, Sung-Soo Oh, Hee-Tae Kang, Dae-Sung Hyun, Chunhui Suh, Sei Jin Chang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e13. Published online May 7, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e13

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background
Emotional labor refers to the management of emotions and expressions to meet the emotional requirements of a job role. This study aimed to develop a revised version of the Korean Emotional Labor Scale (KELS®11), based on the first edition (KELS-24) introduced in 2014, and to provide practical applications and guidelines for its use in the Korean workplace through a validation process.
Methods
The revised version of KELS®11 was derived from the 24-item KELS, following a review process involving eight experts. To validate the scale’s reliability and validity, a self-administered survey was conducted among 359 service industry workers using KELS®11, burnout, and depression scales. KELS®11 was reclassified, and its reliability and validity were evaluated. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was conducted to establish sex-specific cutoff values (normal vs. high-risk groups).
Results
KELS®11 was designed to account for individual, organizational, and cultural contexts. It consists of four subscales and 11 items: “emotional regulation” (2 items), “emotional dissonance” (3 items), “organizational monitoring” (2 items), and “organizational protective system for emotional labor” (4 items). KELS®11 demonstrated good validity (content validity ratio: 0.84; item convergence/discriminant validity success rates: 100%; correlation with burnout: r = 0.185–0.436, p < 0.01; correlation with depression: r = 0.128–0.339, p < 0.05) and reliability (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.597–0.795). Additionally, sex-specific reference values were established to determine risk groups based on the intensity of emotional labor exposure.
Conclusions
KELS®11 is a validated and reliable measurement tool designed to assess the intensity and magnitude of emotional labor in the workplace. The revised tool reflects critical considerations in the development of emotional labor measurement scales.

감정노동: 한국적 맥락에서의 척도 개발 및 유용성 평가
목적
감정노동은 직무수행과정에서 조직 및 일에 요구되는 역할을 충족하기 위해 감정과 표현을 관리하는 것을 의미한다. 본 연구는 2014년 개발된 제1판(KELS-24)을 기반으로 한국형 감정노동 측정도구 개정판 (KELS®11)을 개발하고, 유용성 평가 과정을 통해 직장에서의 활용을 위한 실무적용과 평가지침을 제공하는 데 그 목적이 있다.
방법
KELS 11의 개정판은 8명의 전문가가 참여한 검토 과정을 거쳐 24개 항목으로 구성된 KELS®24를 토대로 구축되었다. 측정도구의 신뢰성과 타당성을 검증하기 위해 KELS®11, 소진 및 우울증 척도를 사용하여 359명의 서비스 산업 종사자를 대상으로 유용성 평가를 수행하여 재 분류하였고, 그 신뢰성과 타당성을 평가하였다. ROC(Receiver Operating Characteristic) 분석을 수행하여 성별 참고치(정상 대 고위험군)를 제시하였다.
결과
KELS®11은 개인, 조직, 문화적 맥락을 고려하여 설계되었다. '감정규제'(2문항), '감정부조화'(3문항), '조직모니터링'(2문항), '감정노동보호체계'(4문항) 등 4개의 하위 척도와 11개 항목으로 구성되어 있다. KELS®11은 우수한 타당도(CVR: 0.84; 문항 수렴/판별 타당성 성공률: 100%; 소진과의 상관관계: r=0.185–0.436, p < 0.01; 우울증과의 상관관계: r=0.128–0.339, p < 0.05) 및 신뢰도(Cronbach’s α: 0.597–0.795)을 보여주었다. 또한, 감정노동 노출 강도에 따라 위험군을 결정하기 위해 성별에 따른 참고치를 제시하였다.
결론
KELS®11은 업무수행과정에서 경험하는 감정노동의 강도와 규모를 평가하기 위해 감정노동 측정척도 개발에 필수적인 중요한 고려 사항을 반영하여 개발되어진 검증되고 신뢰할 수 있는 측정도구이다.

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Work-related risk factors of sleep apnea: evidence from the Korean work, sleep, and health study
Heejoo Ko, Seong-Sik Cho, Hye-Eun Lee, Jeehee Min, Mo-Yeol Kang
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

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Original Article

Video analysis of biomechanical risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders in loincloths female weavers Faso Dan Fani in Burkina Faso: Amidou Sawadogo, Brigitte Nana, Brahima Ouédraogo, Abdoul Rahamane Cissé; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e29. Published online December 20, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e29

Abstract PDF: Background
The purpose of this study is to describe the kinematic characteristics of manual weaving related to the biomechanical risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders.
Methods
Twelve professional female weavers participated in this study. The video recording of their workstations was performed perpendicularly in the sagittal and transverse planes in a synchronized manner, at about 2.45 m and for 5 minutes. The videos were then analyzed using the Kinove software. Statistical processing by the statistical SPSS 22 software.
Results
The results identified a succession of cycles, each with two important phases called the “interlacing” phase and the “winding/adjustment” phase. The average cycle time is 127.9 ± 11.7 seconds. The “interlacing” phase is the longest and concerns an average 80% of the cycle time or 103.5 ± 35.9 seconds. The segmental movements are mainly flexion-extension type with angular variations constantly above the acceptable limits. It is the same for the repetitiveness of the movements which solicit the upper limb and the trunk particularly.
Conclusions
These results recommend one of the actions to prevent musculoskeletal disorders including instructions on postures and frequencies of weaving movements as well as physical exercises adapted to the physical needs of practitioners.

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Special Article

Workplace Violence (KWVS^®13): scale development and validation in the Korean context: Da-Yee Jeung, Hyoung Ryoul Kim, Hansoo Song, Inah Kim, Jin-Ha Yoon, Sang-Baek Koh, Sung-Soo Oh, Hee-Tae Kang, Dae-Sung Hyun, Chunhui Suh, Sei-Jin Chang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e14. Published online May 7, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e14

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material: Background
Workplace violence refers to any act or threat of physical violence, verbal abuse, harassment, intimidation, bullying, mobbing, or other aggressive and disruptive behaviors that occur at work. This study aims to develop and validate a revision of the Korean Workplace Violence Scale (KWVS®13), based on the first edition of the Korean Workplace Violence Scale (KWVS-24), and to provide practical applications and guidelines for the Korean workplace environment.
Methods
The revised KWVS®13 was developed by restructuring the 24-item KWVS through a review process involving eight experts. To validate the reliability and validity of KWVS®13, a self-administered survey comprising KWVS®13, burnout, and depression scales was conducted among 359 service industry workers. KWVS®13 was reclassified, and its reliability and validity were assessed. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to establish sex-specific cutoff values (normal vs. risk) of the scale.
Results
KWVS®13 consists of 13 items across four subscales: “psychological and sexual violence from customers” (4 items), “psychological and sexual violence from supervisors or coworkers” (4 items), “physical assault from customers, supervisors, or coworkers” (2 items), and “organizational protective system for workplace violence” (3 items). We found that KWVS®13 shows relatively good validity (content validity ratio for content validity: 0.888; success rate of item convergent and discriminant validity: 100%, and significant correlation coefficient with burnout (r = 0.115–0.83, p < 0.05) and depression (r = 0.098–0.348, p < 0.05) with the exception of Organizational Violence Protection System for Workplace Violence) and reliability (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.827–0.860). The reference values for determining risk groups according to the intensity of exposure to workplace violence are presented separately by sex.
Conclusions
KWVS®13 is a robust and useful measurement tool to objectively and quantitatively assess the intensity and magnitude of workplace violence. It incorporates important considerations for workplace violence assessment and provides a reliable framework for evaluating workplace violence in various professional settings.; 직장폭력: 한국적 맥락에서의 척도 개발 및 유용성 평가
배경
직장폭력은 업무수행과정에서 발생하는 신체적 폭력, 언어 폭력, 괴롭힘, 협박, 따돌림, 집단 따돌림 또는 기타 공격적이고 파괴적인 행동의 모든 행위 또는 위협을 의미한다. 본 연구는 한국형 직장폭력 측정도구 제1판 (KWVS-24)을 기반으로 한 한국형 직장내 폭력 척도 개정판 (KWVS®13)을 개발하고 유용성 평가를 통해, 한국의 직장 환경에 대한 실무적용과 활용지침을 제공하는 것을 목적으로 한다.
방법
개정된 KWVS®13은 8명의 전문가가 참여하는 검토 과정을 통해 24개 항목의 KWV-24를 재구성하여 개발되었다. 측정 도구의 신뢰성과 타당성을 검증하기 위해 KWVS®13, 소진 및 우울증 척도를 사용하여 359명의 서비스 산업 종사자를 대상으로 유용성 평가를 수행하여 재 분류하였고, 그 신뢰성과 타당성을 평가하였다. ROC(Receiver Operating Characteristic) 분석을 수행하여 성별 참고치(정상 대 고위험군)를 제시하였다.
결과
KWVS®13은 고객의 정신적/성적 폭력(4개 항목), 직장 내 정신적/성적 폭력(4개 항목), 직장/고객의 신체적 폭행(2개 항목), 폭력 보호체계(3개 항목)의 4개 하위 척도에 걸쳐 13개 항목으로 구성되어 있다. KWVS®13은 상대적으로 양호한 타당도 (CVR: 0.888, 항목 수렴 및 판별 타당성의 성공률: 100%), 소진 (r=.115- .83, p<0.05) 및 우울증(r=.098- .348, p<0.05, 폭력 보호체계 제외) 및 신뢰도 (Cronbach’s α: 0.827 - 0.860)를 보였다. 직장폭력에 대한 노출 강도에 따른 위험군을 결정하기 위한 참고치는 성별에 따라 제시하였다.
결론
KWVS®13은 직장폭력의 강도와 규모를 객관적이고 정량적으로 평가할 수 있는 강력하고 유용한 측정도구로서 직장폭력 평가 시 고려되어야 할 중요 차원들을 반영하여 다양한 직무 환경에서 직장폭력을 정량적으로 평가하기 위한 유용한 측정도구이다.

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Original Article

Impact of neck posture and insulating stick use on neck disability in Korean line workers: a cross-sectional study: Bounggyun Ju, Jaehoo Lee, Hye-min Kim, Chul Gab Lee, Hansoo Song; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e11. Published online April 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e11

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Occupational neck disability is a prevalent issue, especially among line workers, who are often exposed to elevated levels of cervical ergonomic stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of neck posture and insulating stick use on neck disability in a specific occupational group in Korea.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 483 line workers in Gwangju and Jeonnam, Korea. Data were collected using the Neck Disability Index, Cervical Degenerative Index, and a structured questionnaire focusing on demographic and occupational factors. Logistic regression analysis was applied to determine the adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for neck posture and factors related to neck disability.

Results

Neck disability prevalence was 17.2% among the participants. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that factors related to neck disability included age over 60 years (adjusted OR: 3.08; 95% CI: 1.63–5.83), depression (adjusted OR: 8.33; 95% CI: 3.85–18.00), a history of cervical trauma (adjusted OR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.04–4.40), and radiological degenerative changes in the cervical spine (adjusted OR: 2.33; 95% CI: 1.26–4.33). In particular, the adjusted OR of neck disability among live-line workers was 2.10 (95% CI: 1.12–3.92) when compared with support workers (model 1). Other analysis models showed that use of insulating sticks for more than 10 hours per week (adjusted OR: 2.46; 95% CI: 1.32–4.61) and higher neck extension (adjusted OR: 2.98; 95% CI: 1.14–3.46) were significant work-related risk factors (model 2,3).

Conclusions

Neck posture, age, depression, cervical trauma history, degenerative changes in the cervical spine, and use of insulating sticks are significant risk factors for neck disability among line workers in Korea. These findings highlight the need to improve the working environment and reduce the burden of cervical ergonomic stress among line workers.

한국 배전보수원의 목 부담자세와 절연스틱사용이 목 장애에 미치는 영향
목적
직업성 목 장애는 특히 높은 수준의 목 부담에 자주 노출되는 배전보수원 사이에서 흔한 문제다. 본 연구는 배전보수원을 대상으로 목 부담자세와 절연스틱사 용이 목 장애에 미치는 영향을 알아보고자 한다.
방법
본 단면연구는 광주와 전남 지역의 배전보수원 483명을 대상으로 실시되었다. 목 장애 지수, 경추퇴행성 지수, 인구통계학적 및 직업적 요인에 초점을 맞춘 구조화된 설문지를 사용하여 데이터를 수집했다. 목 부담자세와 목 장애 관련 요인에 대한 보정 교차비와 95% 신뢰구간(CI)을 알아보기 위해 로지스틱 회귀분석을 시행하였다.
결과
목 장애 유병률은 활선작업자(22.6%)에서 가장 높았으며, 연령이 높아질수록 증가하는 경향을 보였다. 목 장애 관련 요인은 우울증(8.13, 95% CI: 4.02~16.43), 경추 외상 병력(3.53, 95% CI: 1.88~6.63), 경추 방사선학적 퇴행성 변화(2.35, 95% CI: 1.36-4.07)였다. 직업적 요인으로 활선작업자의 보정교차비는 2.10 (95% CI: 1.12-3.92)이었고, 절연스틱을 주당 10시간 이상 사용하는 경우 보정교차비는 2.46 (95% CI: 1.32-4.61)이었다. 또한, 높은 목 신전 부담의 보정교차비는 1.98 (95% CI: 1.14-3.46)이었다.
결론
연령, 우울증, 경추 외상, 경추의 퇴행성 변화와 같은 일반적 요인뿐만 아니라 활선작업, 절연스틱 사용, 목 부담 자세와 같은 직업적 요인은 국내 배전보수원의 목 장애를 유발하는 위험 요인이다. 이러한 결과는 배전보수원의 작업환경 개선의 필요성을 시사한다.

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List of occupational diseases among farmers in Korea: a literature review
Hansoo Song, Seok-Ju Yoo, Won-Ju Park, Seunghyeon Cho, Ki Soo Park, Joo Hyun Sung, Sang Jin Park, Seong-yong Yoon, Kyeongsoo Kim, Dong-phil Choi, Hye-min Kim, Bounggyun Ju, Kanwoo Youn
Ann Occup Environ Med.2025; 37: e2. CrossRef
Effects of dry needling on functioning and pain relief in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Alessandro de Sire, Nicola Marotta, Maria Sgro, Isabella Bartalotta, Roberta Zito, Dario Calafiore, Francesco Agostini, Michele Vecchio, Umile Giuseppe Longo, Antonio Ammendolia
Disability and Rehabilitation.2025; : 1. CrossRef
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Isabella Bartalotta, Nicola Marotta, Roberta Zito, Maria Sgro, Dario Calafiore, Francesco Agostini, Michele Vecchio, Umile Giuseppe Longo, Antonio Ammendolia, Alessandro de Sire
International Journal of Bone Fragility.2025; 5(5): 46. CrossRef

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Original Article

Exploring the association between non-regular employment and adverse birth outcomes: an analysis of national data in Japan: Tasuku Okui, Naoki Nakashima; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e6. Published online March 18, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e6; Correction in: Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36(0):e30

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background

As few studies have explored the association between non-regular or precarious employment in parents and adverse birth outcomes, this study aimed to investigate this association using national data in Japan.

Methods

This study utilized the census data from 2020 and birth data from the vital statistics in 2021 and 2022 in the analysis. Adverse birth outcomes, including preterm birth, term low birth weight (TLBW), and small-for-gestational-age, were examined. Data linkage was conducted between birth data and census data to link parental employment statuses and educational attainments with birth data. Rates of adverse birth outcomes were calculated for each parental employment status. Additionally, regression analysis was used to determine adjusted risk ratios (RRs) of parental employment statuses for each birth outcome.

Results

After data linkage, 334,110 birth records were included in the statistical analysis. Rates for non-regular workers were consistently higher than those for regular workers across all adverse birth outcomes for maternal employment status. Results of regression analyses indicated that the risks of preterm birth for non-regular workers were statistically significantly higher than those for regular workers, both in mothers and fathers with a RR (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) of 1.053 (1.004–1.104) and 1.142 (1.032–1.264), respectively. Furthermore, the risk of TLBW birth for non-regular workers was statistically significantly higher than that for regular workers in fathers (RR [95% CI]: 1.092 [1.043–1.143]).

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that non-regular workers have a higher risk of some adverse birth outcomes compared to regular workers.

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Assisted reproductive technology in Japan: A summary report for 2022 by the Ethics Committee of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Yukiko Katagiri, Seung Chik Jwa, Akira Kuwahara, Takeshi Iwasa, Masanori Ono, Keiichi Kato, Hiroshi Kishi, Yoshimitsu Kuwabara, Fuminori Taniguchi, Miyuki Harada, Akira Iwase, Norihiro Sugino
Reproductive Medicine and Biology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

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Original Article

Commuting time and musculoskeletal pain in the relationship with working time: a cross-sectional study: Hoje Ryu, Seong-Sik Cho, Jung Il Kim, Sun-Haeng Choi, Nathan Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e4. Published online February 19, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e4

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background
Commuting is essential for working life; however, prolonged travel times can negatively affect health, particularly musculoskeletal pain. This study aims to examine the relationship between commuting time and musculoskeletal pain (back, upper extremity, and lower extremity pain), in the context of working time.
Methods
This cross-sectional study used data from the Sixth Korean Working Conditions Survey conducted in Korea between October 2020 and April 2021. Variables such as commuting time, weekly working hours, and shift work were assessed using the survey questions. Musculoskeletal pain was determined based on self-reported pains in the previous year. The covariates included demographics, employment status, ergonomic risks, and job stress. The association between commuting time and musculoskeletal pain stratified by weekly working hours or shift work was analyzed by survey-weighted logistic regression analysis.
Results
This study found a significant association between longer commuting times and increased prevalence of musculoskeletal pain, particularly back, upper extremity, and lower extremity pain. When commuting time was ≤60, 61–120, >120 minutes, the odds ratio was 1.00, 1.33 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16–1.52), and 2.41 (95% CI: 1.77–3.29) for back pain; 1.00, 1.29 (95% CI: 1.13–1.46), and 2.27 (95% CI: 1.71–3.00) for upper extremity pain; and 1.00, 1.24 (95% CI: 1.05–1.45), and 1.53 (95% CI: 1.13–2.08) for lower extremity pain, respectively. Furthermore, except for upper extremity pain, this trend was amplified when participants were concurrently exposed to long working hours, and for lower extremity pain, this trend was aggravated among shift workers.
Conclusions
Long commuting time may be a risk factor for musculoskeletal pain, and its’ effects could be aggravated when combined with long working hours or shift work. This study observed the detrimental impact of prolonged commuting on musculoskeletal health, particularly among employees with extended working hours or shift work.

노동 시간 및 교대근무 여부에 따른 통근 시간과 근골격계 통증의 연관성
목적
통근 시간은 업무에 필수적인 요소이며 긴 통근 시간은 건강에 부정적인 영향을 미칠 수도 있다. 이 연구에서는 통근 시간과 근골격계 통증(허리, 상지 및 하지 통증)의 연관성을 노동 시간(장시간 노동 및 교대근무)을 고려하여 조사하였다.
방법
이 연구는 제6차 취업자근로환경조사의 자료를 이용하였다. 통근 시간, 주당 근무 시간, 교대근무 여부는 설문조사를 통해 조사하였다. 근골격계 통증은 지난 1년간 자가 보고된 건강 문제를 통해 평가하였다. 공변량에는 인구통계학적 요인, 고용 상태, 인간공학적 요인 및 직업 스트레스 요인이 포함되었다. 통근 시간과 근골격계 통증과의 연관성을 주당 근무시간 또는 교대근무 여부에 따라 계층화하여 다중 로지스틱 회귀분석을 이용하여 분석하였다.
결과
통근 시간이 60분 이하, 61~120분, 120분 이상일 때 요통에 대한 odds ratio는 1.00, 1.33(95% confidential interval [CI]: 1.16-1.52), 2.41(95% CI: 1.77-3.29); 상지 통증은 1.00, 1.29(95% CI: 1.13-1.46), 2.27(95% CI: 1.71-3.00); 하지 통증은 1.00, 1.24(95% CI: 1.05-1.45), 1.53(95% CI: 1.13-2.08)이었다. 또한 상지 통증을 제외하고는 장시간 노동을 병행하는 경우 오즈비가 증가하는 경향과 하지 통증의 경우 교대 근무자에서 증가되는 경향이 관찰되었다.
결론
긴 통근시간은 근골격계 통증의 위험 요인이 될 수 있으며, 장시간 노동이나 교대근무에 동시에 노출되면 해로운 영향이 증가될 수 있다. 본 연구의 결과는 긴 통근시간이 근골격계 건강에 해로운 영향을 미칠 수도 있다는 점을 보여주며, 특히 장시간 노동이나 교대근무를 하는 근로자 집단에서 그 영향이 커질 수 있음을 시사한다.

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Association between shift work and brain age gap: a neuroimaging study using MRI-based brain age prediction algorithms
Youjin Kim, Joon Yul Choi, Evgeny Petrovskiy, Wanhyung Lee
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Special Issue

The impacts of working time flexibilization on occupational safety and health: an expert survey: Daseul Moon, Hyunjoo Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e20. Published online July 20, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e20

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

The policy proposal by the current Korean government that proposes flexible overtime rules is causing social controversy. This study has explored the 612 experts’ opinions on the occupational safety and health impacts of the policy using an online self-report survey. They expected short-term overwork (87.25%), overwork inequality (86.44%), irregular working hours (84.31%), chronic overwork (84.15%), long working hours (83.66%), and unpredictability of working hours (81.86%) as a result of the policy change. They also responded that the policy change would increase industrial accident deaths (87.25%), mental illnesses (87.09%), deaths due to overwork or cardiovascular diseases (83.84%), and accidents (83.33%). They disagreed that the government’s flexibilization policy, while agreeing that the necessity of policies on regulating night work (94.77%), guaranteeing wages to eliminate overtime (90.36%), establishing working time regulations for the bogus self-employed (82.84%), and applying the 52-hour workweek system to all workplaces (76.47%). These expert opinions are consistent with previous research on the health effects of working hours.

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Effect of long working hours on psychological distress among young workers in different types of occupation
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Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
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Special Series I: Working hours as a social determinant of workers’ health
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Special Issue

Association between irregular working hours and work-related musculoskeletal pain: results from the 6th Korean Working Conditions Survey: Munyoung Yang, Jun-Pyo Myong, Jongin Lee, Min Young Park, Mo-Yeol Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e21. Published online July 3, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e21

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Recently, irregular working hours have become controversial issues in Korea. The health impact of irregular working hours on the work-related musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is scarcely researched before. We sought to investigate the association between irregular working hours and work-related MSP among South Korean workers.

Methods

This study used data from the sixth Korean Working Conditions Survey in 2020. The prevalence of work-related MSP was analyzed using the χ² test. A multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between irregular working hours and work-related MSP. We conducted stratified analysis by gender, weekly working hours, and workers’ control over their working hours. We calculated the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of work-related MSP for irregular working hours combined with weekly working hours.

Results

The OR for work-related MSP was significantly higher in the population with irregular working hours than in the population with regular working hours (OR: 1.43, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.29–1.58). Irregular and long (> 52 hours/week) working hours have the highest risk of work-related MSP in both genders (in men, OR: 3.48 [95% CI: 2.53–4.78]; in women, OR: 2.41 [95% CI: 1.46–4.00]).

Conclusions

Irregular working hours were associated with work-related MSP in Korea. The association was magnified with long working hours. Reform of the Korean Labor Standards Act leading to increase irregular working hours may induce adverse health outcome.

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Kyunghee Jung-Choi, Tae-Won Jang, Mo-Yeol Kang, Jungwon Kim, Eun-A Kim
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Original Article

The relationship between visual display terminal usage at work and symptoms related to computer vision syndrome: Soonsu Shin, Eun Hye Yang, Hyo Choon Lee, Seong Ho Moon, Jae-Hong Ryoo; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e1. Published online January 9, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e1

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Although it is well known that the usage of visual display terminal (VDT) at the workplace causes computer vision syndrome (CVS), previous studies mainly focused on computer use and the health of white-collar workers. In this study, we explored the relationship between the usage of VDT including various devices, and symptoms related to CVS in a large population including pink-collar workers and blue-collar workers.

Methods

21,304 wage workers over the age of 20 years were analyzed from the 6th Korean Working Conditions Survey. To investigate the association between VDT use at work and symptoms related to CVS among wage workers, odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

In the group with the highest VDT usage at work, the OR of headache/eyestrain was 2.16 (95% CI: 1.86–2.52). The OR of suspected CVS patients was significantly increased in the highest group of usage of VDT at work (OR: 1.69; 95% CI, 1.39–2.06). Compare with the reference group, the OR for headache/eyestrain in the highest group of VDT usage was 2.81 (95% CI: 2.13–3.70) in white-collar workers, 1.78 (95% CI: 1.32–2.40) in pink-collar workers, and 1.59 (95% CI: 1.18–2.15) in blue-collar workers.

Conclusions

We observed a relationship in which the use of VDT in the workplace increases the risk of headache/eyestrain regardless of occupational classification. Our findings emphasize the importance of paying attention to the health of VDT workers and making plans to improve their working conditions.

영상표시단말기 작업과 컴퓨터 시각 증후군의 증상간의 관계
목적
다양한 산업과 직군에서 컴퓨터만이 아니라 스마트폰, 태블릿 등의 영상표시단말기(Video display terminal)의 사용이 증가하고 있다. 영상표시 단말기를 사용하는 사람들은 흔히 눈의 긴장, 두통, 상지 통증 등의 증상을 겪으며 이러한 증상들의 집합은 컴퓨터 시각 증후군(Computer vision syndrome)이라고 정의되어 왔다. 컴퓨터 시각 증후군에 대한 이전 연구들은 특정 직업만을 대상으로 한 연구가 많았다. 또한, 지금까지 컴퓨터 이외의 다른 기기들을 포함하여 컴퓨터 시각증후군에 대해 조사한 연구는 없었다. 본 연구에서는 제6차 근로환경조사를 통하여 작업 중 다양한 영상표시단말기의 사용과 컴퓨터 시각 증후군의 증상들의 관계에 대해 연구해보았다. 인구집단을 화이트칼라 근로자, 핑크칼라 근로자, 블루칼라 근로자로 나누어서 분석하여 영상표시단말기 사용이 근로자들의 건강에 미치는 영향을 파악해보고자 한다.
방법
이번 연구에서는 6차 근로환경조사에 참여한 인원 중 20세 이상의 임금 근로자 21,304명을 연구 참여자로 포함시켰다. 이들의 작업 중 영상표시단말기 사용을 적음, 보통, 많음 세 군으로 나누어 독립변수로 사용하였고, 지난 12개월 동안 두통/눈 긴장이 있는지, 상지의 통증이 있는지, 혹은 둘 다 있는 경우 컴퓨터 시각 증후군 의심환자로 정의하여 종속변수로 사용하여 로지스틱 회귀분석을 진행하였다. 통계적 유의수준은 P<0.05 으로 고려하였다.
결과
로지스틱 회귀분석에서 영상표시 단말기 사용이 많았던 군에서 적었던 군 보다 두통/눈 긴장의 오즈비(Odds ratio)가 2.16 (95% 신뢰구간: 1.86-2.52)로 높게 나타났다. 컴퓨터 시각증후군 의심환자는 영상표시 단말기 사용이 많았던 군에서 적었던 군과 비교해 오즈비가 1.69 (95% 신뢰구간: 1.39-2.06)로 유의미하게 높았다. 기준군과 비교하여 영상표시단말기의 사용이 많았던 군의 두통/눈 긴장의 오즈비는 화이트칼라 근로자에서 2.81 (95% 신뢰구간: 2.13–3.70), 핑크칼라 근로자에서 1.78 (95% 신뢰구간: 1.32–2.40) 및 블루칼라 근로자에서 1.59 (95% 신뢰구간: 1.18–2.15)이었다.
결론
영상표시단말기의 사용은 근로자들에게서 두통/눈긴장의 위험을 높이며, 컴퓨터 시각 증후군 의심환자의 위험을 높였다. 화이트칼라 근로자뿐만 아니라 핑크칼라 근로자, 블루칼라 근로자에서도 영상표시단말기의 사용이 많은 군에서 두통/눈긴장의 위험이 증가하였다. 이러한 결과는 영상표시단말기 취급근로자들의 건강에 주의를 기울여야함을 시사한다.

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Original Article

Association between multiple jobs and physical and psychological symptoms among the Korean working population: Seok-Yoon Son, Jin-Young Min, Seung-Woo Ryoo, Baek-Yong Choi, Kyoung-Bok Min; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e21. Published online August 6, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e21

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

The prevalence of multiple job-holding (MJH) is expected to show an upward trend among Korean workers, yet its potential impact on workers’ health remains poorly discussed. This study aimed to explore the association between MJH and experience of physical and psychological symptoms in various aspects among active Korean workers and to identify its differences depending on workers’ gender.

Methods

We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study among South Korean workers aged 15–59 using data from the 6th Korean Working Conditions Survey. The final study sample comprised 34,175 participants. MJH status and symptoms, such as musculoskeletal pain, headache or eyestrain, fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety, were measured by self-reported data. Logistic regression analyses were performed on the total sample and gender-stratified groups, with adjustments for the sociodemographic and occupational characteristics of the participants.

Results

One hundred thirty-five men and 103 women were defined as multiple job-holders (MJHers) among the study sample. When adjusted for sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, MJHers suffered more events of headache or eyestrain (odds ratio [OR]: 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23–2.78) and anxiety (OR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.05–3.79). Gender-stratified analyses with adjustment showed that among women workers, MJH was associated with musculoskeletal pain (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.02–3.34), headache or eyestrain (OR: 2.53, 95% CI: 1.37–4.67), fatigue (OR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.29–4.40), insomnia (OR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.04–3.57), and anxiety (OR: 2.83, 95% CI: 1.11–7.20).

Conclusions

We found a significant association between MJH and various symptoms. Women MJHers were revealed to be a more vulnerable population than their men counterparts. Further research should account for the social context of MJH, and appropriate monitoring and intervention for maintaining the well-being of MJHers are needed.

한국인 근로자 집단에서의 다중직업종사와 육체적, 정신적 증상 간 연관성
목적
한 근로자가 동시에 두 개 이상의 직업을 가지는 행위인 ‘다중직업종사’ 현상은 한국인 근로자들 간 그 비중이 점차 증가할 것으로 전망된다. 그러나, 다중직업종사가 근로자의 다양한 육체적, 정신적 증상에 미칠 수 있는 영향에 대한 논의는 부족한 실정이다. 이에, 본 연구에서는 한국인 근로자 집단을 대상으로 하여 다중직업종사와 근로자의 건강 간 연관성을 다양한 관점에서 탐구하였다. 나아가 이러한 연관성이 근로자의 성별에 따라 관찰되는 차이에 대하여 확인하였다.
방법
본 연구는 제6차 근로환경조사 자료를 활용한 단면 연구로, 만 15세 이상 59세 이하인 한국인 근로자 34,175명을 대상으로 수행되었다. 다중직업종사 상태 및 육체적, 정신적 증상으로서 근골격계 통증, 두통 및 눈의 피로, 전신피로, 불면 및 불안의 유무는 자가 보고된 자료로 확인하였다. 연구대상 집단 전체 및 각 성별 집단을 대상으로, 근로자들의 인구사회학적 특성 및 직업 특성을 보정한 로지스틱 회귀분석을 시행하였다.
결과
연구대상 집단 중 135명의 남성과 103명의 여성이 다중직업종사자로 정의되었다. 인구사회학적 특성 및 직업 특성을 보정한 분석 결과 다중직업종사자에서 두통 및 눈의 피로 (OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.23-2.78)와 불안 (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.05-3.79)의 위험이 더 큰 것으로 나타났다. 성별을 통한 층화 후 분석 결과 여성 근로자 집단에서 다중직업종사는 근골격계 통증 (OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.02-3.34), 두통 및 눈의 피로 (OR 2.53, 95% CI 1.37-4.67), 전신피로 (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.29-4.40)와 불안 (OR 2.83, 95% CI 1.11-7.20) 간 유의한 연관성을 보였다.
결론
본 연구에서 다중직업종사와 근로자의 다양한 증상 간 유의한 연관성이 있음을 확인하였다. 다중직업종사의 건강 영향은 여성 근로자 집단에서 보다 저명한 것으로 나타났다. 후속 연구는 다중직업종사 현상에 대한 사회적 맥락을 보다 고려해야 할 것이다. 또한 다중직업종사자들의 건강 유지를 위한 모니터링 및 중재가 적절히 수행되어야 함을 제안한다.

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Dong-Woo Kim, June-Hee Lee, In-Ho Lee, Kyung-Jae Lee
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2025; 37: e33. CrossRef

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Original Article

Relationship between the use of hair products and urine benzophenone-3: the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycle 4: Siyoung Kim, Seong-yong Cho, Seongyong Yoon, Daehwan Kim, Hyun Woo Park, Jisoo Kang, Sung Woo Huh; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e20. Published online August 6, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e20

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Benzophenone-3 is a type of ketone with 2 benzene rings attached to a carbonyl group (C=O) and one benzene ring attached to a hydroxyl group (-OH). As an endocrine-disrupting chemical, benzophenone-3 is known to be associated with reproductive, developmental, thyroid, and endocrine toxicities. Benzophenone-3 is commonly used in hair products, cosmetics, and ultraviolet (UV) filters because of its characteristic property to absorb UV light. This study aims to investigate the association between the use of hair products and urine benzophenone-3 using the data from the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycle 4 (2018–2020), which represents the Korean population.

Methods

Using the KoNEHS cycle 4 survey, the data of 3,796 adults aged ≥ 19 years were analyzed. Based on the 75th percentile concentration of urine benzophenone-3, the participants were divided into the low- and high-concentration groups. Chi-square test was conducted to analyze the association of urine benzophenone-3 with distribution of general characteristics, use of personal care products, consumption of marine foods, and use of plastic products as the variable. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to calculate odds ratios (ORs) for the high-concentration group of urine benzophenone-3 based on the use of hair products.

Results

Women with < 6 times or ≥ 6 times of hair product usage had significantly higher adjusted ORs compared to those who did not use hair products. The calculated ORs were 1.24 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–1.38) for women with < 6 times of usage and 1.54 (95% CI: 1.33–1.79) for women with ≥ 6 times of usage.

Conclusions

This study revealed the association between the use of hair products and the concentration of urine benzophenone-3 in the general Korean population.

제4기 (2018-2020) 국민환경보건 기초조사를 이용한 헤어제품사용과 요중 벤조페논-3(benzophenone-3)과의 관계
목적
벤조페논-3은 2개의 벤젠고리가 카르보닐기(C=O)에 결합된 케톤 형태로 이루어져 있으며, 한개의 벤젠고리에 히드록시기(-OH)가 결합된 형태를 가지고 있다. 벤조페논-3은 내분비계교란화합물(Endocrine disrupting chemical)로서 생식독성, 발달독성, 갑상선 및 내분비계 독성 등을 가지고 있는 것으로 알려져 있다. 벤조페논-3은 자외선을 흡수하는 특성이 있어, 헤어제품(hair product), 화장품, 자외선차단제 등에 사용된다. 본 연구에서는 대한민국 인구집단를 대표하는 국민환경보건기초조사(KoNEHS) 4주기(2018-2020)의 데이터를 이용하여 헤어제품 사용과 요중 벤조페논-3과의 연관성을 확인하고자 한다.
방법
KoNEHS 4주기의 데이터에서 19세 이상 성인 3,796명의 참가자를 분석하였다. 요중 벤조페논-의 75번째 백분위 수 농도를 기준으로 저농도군과 고농도군으로 나누었다. 연구대상의 요중 벤조페논- 3농도와 일반적 특성, 개인 및 위생용품사용, 해양생물 섭취, 플라스틱용품사용 간의 분포 및 평균을 비교하기 위하여 독립 t-검정과 χ2 테스트를 실시하였다. 헤어제품에 대한 요중 벤조페논-3 대한 승산비(ORs)는 일반적 특성, 개인 및 위생용품사용, 해양생물 섭취, 그리고 플라스틱용품 사용을 보정한 후 로지스틱 회귀분석을 사용하여 계산하였다.
결과
본 연구에서는 여성에서 헤어제품 ‘주 6회 미만 사용군’과 ‘주 6회 이상 사용군’은 ‘사용안함군’에 비해 요중 벤조페논-3 고농도군에 속할 OR 값이 증가하였다. 계산된 OR값은 ‘주 6회 미만 사용군’ 1.24(95% CI: 1.12-1.38), ‘주 6회 이상 사용군’ 1.54 (95% CI: 1.33-1.79)이었다.
결론
본 연구를 통해서 헤어제품 사용과 요중 벤죠페논-3과의 연관성을 확인할 수 있었다.

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Sooyeon Hong, Ok-Jin Kim, Sun Kyoung Jung, Hye Li Jeon, Suejin Kim, Jihyon Kil
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Original Article

Association of weight and dietary habits with high blood mercury levels in Korean adolescents: data from the KoNEHS cycle 4, 2018-2020: Ji Hoon Kim, Minju Jung, Jaewon Mun, Dong-Jae Seo, Jong-Han Leem, Shin-Goo Park, Dong-Wook Lee, Hyung Doo Kim, Hwan-Cheol Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e5. Published online February 21, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e5

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background
Humans are exposed to mercury primarily in its highly toxic form, methyl mercury, which is known to have adverse effects on various organs and systems. The negative impact of mercury exposure on the growth, development, and mental health of children, from infancy to adolescence, is well-documented. However, there are no internationally standardized safe limits for mercury exposure. This study investigated the impact of dietary habits and higher body mass index (BMI) on blood mercury levels in adolescents.
Methods
This study analyzed the data from the 4th Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) 2018–2020. The focus was on 825 middle and high school students aged 13–18 years, whose blood mercury levels were measured. A survey on dietary and lifestyle habits was also conducted. Blood mercury levels were categorized by geometric median values, and associations with overweight status and seafood consumption were examined using a generalized linear model.
Results
The geometric mean blood mercury level for the entire sample was 1.37 μg/L, with levels of 1.31 μg/L in normal-weight individuals and 1.43 μg/L in overweight individuals, showing a statistically significant difference between the two groups. After adjusting for other variables, blood mercury levels were significantly associated with overweight status (estimate: 0.084; p = 0.018; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.015–0.153), consumption of large fish and tuna more than once a week (estimate: 0.18; p = 0.001; 95% CI: 0.077–0.284), and consumption of fish once a week or more (estimate: 0.147; p = 0.004; 95% CI: 0.043–0.250).
Conclusions
In adolescents, a higher BMI and an increased consumption of large fish, tuna, and fish were associated with higher blood mercury levels. Notably, a stronger association was found between large fish consumption and blood mercury levels in the overweight group. These findings suggest the need to moderate seafood consumption and establish more proactive mercury exposure standards for adolescents.

한국 청소년에서 체중 및 식습관과 높은 혈중 수은 농도의 연관: KNHANES 제4기 데이터, 2018-2020
목적
수은은 독성이 강한 형태인 메틸 수은의 상태로 인간에게 주로 노출된다. 메틸 수은은 발달 및 정신건강측면을 포함한 인체 전반에 독성 영향이 있지만 현재 국제적으로 표준화된 수은 노출 기준이 없다. 특히나 영유아나 청소년은 발달이 아직 이루어지지 않아 성인에 비해 더 수은 노출의 위험도가 높다. 본 연구에서는 청소년의 식습관이나 과체중 여부가 혈중 수은 노출에 미치는 영향을 조사하였다.
방법
본 연구는 국립환경과학원에서 발간하는 제4기 국민환경보건 기초조사(2018-2020)를 활용하였다. 제4기 대상 중 혈중 수은 농도가 측정 된 13-18세의 중, 고등학생 825명을 대상으로 하였고 식습관이나 생활 습관에 대한 개인 설문을 활용하였다. 혈중 수은 농도 중위 값을 기준으로 구분하여 과체중 여부를 구분하여 각종 해산물 식습관과 혈중 수은 농도와의 연관성을 로지스틱 회귀 모델을 사용하여 조사하였고, 이 후 전체 연구 대상자를 대상으로 연관성을 조사하였다.
결과
전체 표본의 기하평균 혈중 수은 농도는 1.37 µg/L로, 정상체중 군은 1.31 µg/L, 과체중 군은 1.43 µg/L로 나타났으며, 두 군 간에 통계적으로 유의미한 차이가 있었다. 다른 변수들을 조정한 후, 혈중 수은 농도는 과체중 상태(추정값: 0.084; p-value: 0.018; 95% 신뢰구간[CI]: 0.015-0.153), 주 1회 이상 대형어류와 참치 섭취(추정값: 0.18; p-value: 0.001; 95% CI: 0.077-0.284), 주 1회 이상 어류 섭취(추정값: 0.147; p-value: 0.004; 95% CI: 0.043-0.250)와 유의미한 관계가 있었다.
결론
청소년에서 높은 BMI와 대형어류, 참치, 어류 섭취가 높은 혈중 수은 농도와 관련이 있었다. 특히, 과체중 그룹에서는 대형어류 섭취와 혈중 수은 농도 간의 강한 연관성이 발견되었다. 이 결과는 청소년을 위한 해산물 섭취 절제와 더 적극적인 수은 노출 기준 설정이 필요함을 시사한다.

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Kiook Baek
Central European Journal of Public Health.2025; 33(1): 3. CrossRef

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Original Article

Risk assessment of heavy metals in tuna from Japanese restaurants in the Republic of Korea: Seong-Jin Bae, Kyu-Sik Shin, Chulyong Park, Kiook Baek, So-Young Son, Joon Sakong; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e3. Published online February 9, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e3

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Studies on the risk of mercury (Hg) in Korean fishery products focus primarily on total Hg levels as opposed to methylmercury (MeHg) levels. None of the few studies on MeHg in tuna investigated tuna from Japanese restaurants. Few have evaluated lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) in tuna. Thus, this study aimed to conduct a risk assessment by evaluating heavy metal concentrations in tuna from Japanese restaurants.

Methods

Thirty-one tuna samples were collected from Japanese restaurants in the Republic of Korea. They were classified according to region and species. The concentration of heavy metals in the samples was analyzed using the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety Food Code method. The rate of exceedance of maximum residue levels (MRLs) and the risk compared to the provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) set by the Joint Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization Expert Committee on Food Additives (%PTWI) were evaluated for risk assessment.

Results

The mean of MeHg, Pb, Cd and As concentrations were 0.56 ± 1.47 mg/kg, 33.95 ± 3.74 μg/kg, 14.25 ± 2.19 μg/kg and 1.46 ± 1.89 mg/kg, respectively. No sample exceeded the MRLs of Pb and Cd, but 9.7% of the samples exceeded the MRL of MeHg. The %PTWIs of MeHg, Pb, Cd and As were 4.2037, 0.0162, 0.0244 and 1.1627, respectively. The %PTWI of MeHg by age group and sex was highest among men aged 19–29 years (10.6494), followed by men aged 30–49 years (7.2458) and women aged 19–29 years (4.8307).

Conclusions

We found that 3 out of 31 samples exceeded the MRL of MeHg. The %PTWI of MeHg showed significant differences based on age and sex, and the value was likely to exceed a safe level depending on individuals’ eating behaviors. Therefore, improved risk management for MeHg is required.

한국의 일식집 유통 참치의 중금속(4종) 위해성평가
목적
국내 수산물의 수은에 관한 위해성 연구는 주로 메틸수은이 아닌 총 수은을 대상으로 이루어졌다. 소수의 참치의 메틸수은에 대한 연구들 중 일식점 유통 참치에 대한 연구는 없었다. 참치의 납, 카드뮴 및 비소에 대한 연구도 거의 이루어지지 않았다. 따라서 본 연구에서는 일식점 유통 참치의 중금속 농도를 평가하여 위해성평가를 실시하고자 하였다.
방법
참치는 한국의 일식집에서 총 31개의 시료가 수집되었다. 지역과 참치의 종에 따라서 분류하였다. 시료의 중금속 농도는 식품의약품안전처의 식품공전에 따라 분석했다. 위해성평가를 위해서 식품의 잔류허용기준을 초과하는 비율과 FAO/WHO합동식품첨가물 전문가위원회가 설정한 잠정주간섭취허용과 비교한 위험도(%PTWI)를 산출하였다.
결과
메틸수은, 납, 카드뮴 및 비소 농도의 기하평균은 각각 0.56 ± 1.47 mg/kg, 33.95 ± 3.74 μg/kg, 14.25 ± 2.19 μg/kg 및 1.46 ± 1.89 mg/kg이었다. 납과 카드뮴의 경우 잔류허용기준을 초과하는 시료가 없었으나 메틸수은의 경우 시료의 9.7%가 초과했다. 메틸수은, 납, 카드뮴 및 비소의 %PTWI는 4.2037, 0.0162, 0.0244 및 1.1627이었다. 메틸수은의 %PTWI는 19-29세의 남성, 30-49세의 남성, 19-29세의 여성 순으로 높았으며, 그 값은 10.6494, 7.2458, 4.8307이었다.
결론
총 31개의 시료 중 3개에서 메틸수은의 잔류허용기준을 초과하는 것으로 나타났다. 메틸수은의 %PTWI는 연령과 성별에 따라 상당한 차이를 보였고, 그리고 그 값은 섭취행태에 따라서 안전 수준을 초과할 가능성을 보였다. 따라서, 메틸수은에 대한 개선된 안전성 관리 방안이 필요할 것으로 보인다.

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Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
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József Lehel, Zita Papp, András Bartha, Péter Palotás, Rita Szabó, Péter Budai, Miklós Süth
Foods.2023; 12(16): 3038. CrossRef

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Original Article

Correlation of commute time with the risk of subjective mental health problems: 6^th Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS): Hyo Choon Lee, Eun Hye Yang, Soonsu Shin, Seoung Ho Moon, Nan Song, Jae-Hong Ryoo; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e9. Published online May 11, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e9

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

Studies conducted so far on the link between commute time and mental health among Koreans remain insufficient. In this study, we attempted to identify the relationship between commute time and subjective mental health using the 6^th Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS).

Methods

Self-reported commute time was divided into four groups: ≤ 30 (group 1), 30–60 (group 2), 60–120 (group 3), and > 120 minutes (group 4). Subjective depression was defined as a score of 50 points or less on the WHO-5 well-being index. Subjective anxiety and fatigue were defined as answering ‘yes’ to the questionnaire on whether they had experienced it over the past year. The analysis of variance, t-test, and χ² test was used to analyze the differences among the characteristics of the study participants according to commute time, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for depression, anxiety, and fatigue according to commute time were calculated using multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for sex, age, monthly income, occupation, company size, weekly working hours, and shift work status.

Results

Long commute times showed increased ORs and graded increasing trends for depression, anxiety, and fatigue. The ORs for depression increased significantly in group 2 (1.06 [1.01–1.11]), group 3 (1.23 [1.13–1.33]), and group 4 (1.31 [1.09–1.57]) compared to group 1 (reference). The ORs for anxiety increased significantly in group 2 (1.17 [1.06–1.29]), group 3 (1.43 [1.23–1.65]) and group 4 (1.89 [1.42–2.53]). The ORs for fatigue increased significantly in group 2 (1.09 [1.04–1.15]), group 3 (1.32 [1.21–1.43]), and group 4 (1.51 [1.25–1.82]).

Conclusions

This study highlights that the risk of depression, anxiety, and fatigue increases with commute time.

통근 시간과 주관적 정신건강문제 위험의 상관관계 : 제6차 한국근로환경조사
목적
한국인들의 통근 시간과 정신 건강의 관계에 대해 지금까지 수행된 연구는 매우 부족하다. 본 연구에서는 제6차 한국근로환경조사 자료를 이용하여 통근 시간과 주관적 정신건강의 관계를 규명하고자 하였다.
방법
자가 보고된 통근 시간은 30분 이하(1군), 30분-60분(2군), 60분-120분(3군), 120분 초과(4군)의 4개 그룹으로 분류하였다. 주관적 우울은 WHO-5 웰빙 지수 50점 이하인 경우로 정의하였다. 주관적 불안과 피로는 지난 1년간 이러한 증상을 경험한 적이 있는지에 대한 설문지에 '그렇다'고 대답한 경우로 정의하였다. 분산분석, T-검정 및 카이-제곱 검정을 사용하여 출퇴근 시간, 우울, 불안, 피로에 따른 연구 참여자들의 특성 차이를 분석하였다. 성별, 연령, 월 소득, 직업, 회사 규모, 주당 근로 시간, 교대근무 상태를 보정한 다변량 로지스틱 회귀모형을 이용하여, 통근 시간에 따른 우울, 불안, 피로에 대한 오즈비와 95% 신뢰구간을 산출하였다.
결과
긴 통근 시간은 우울, 불안, 피로에 대한 오즈비 증가 및 점진적인 상승 추세를 보여주었다. 우울에 대한 오즈비는 2군(1.06[1.01-1.11]), 3군(1.23[1.13-1.33])과 4군(1.31[1.09-1.57])에서 1군(참조군)에 비해 유의하게 증가하였다. 불안에 대한 오즈비는 2군(1.17[1.06-1.29]), 3군(1.43[1.23-1.65])과 4군(1.89[1.42-2.53])에서 유의하게 증가했다. 피로에 대한 오즈비는 2군(1.09[1.04-1.15]), 3군(1.32[1.21-1.43])과 4군(1.51[1.25-1.82])에서 유의하게 증가했다.
결론
본 연구는 출퇴근 시간이 증가함에 따라 우울증, 불안, 피로의 위험이 증가한다는 것을 강조한다.

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Baek-Yong Choi, Ji-Hyeon Lee, Seok-Yoon Son, Seung-Woo Ryoo, Jin-Young Min, Kyoung-Bok Min
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Original Article

Exploring the impact of age and socioeconomic factors on health-related unemployment using propensity score matching: results from Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2015–2017): Ye-Seo Lee, Dong-Wook Lee, Mo-Yeol Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e16. Published online July 1, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e16

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Previous reports showed that age and socioeconomic factors mediated health-related unemployment. However, those studies had limitations controlling for confounding factors. This study examines age and socioeconomic factors contributing to health-related unemployment using propensity score matching (PSM) to control for various confounding variables.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) from 2015–2017. We applied a 1:1 PSM to align health factors, and examined the association between health-related unemployment and age or socioeconomic factors through conditional logistic regression. The health-related unemployment group was compared with the employment group.

Results

Among the 9,917 participants (5,817 women, 4,100 men), 1,182 (853 women, 329 men) were in the health-related unemployment group. Total 911 pairs (629 women pairs and 282 men pairs) were retained after PSM for health factors. The results of conditional logistic regression showed that older age, low individual and household income levels, low education level, receipt of the Basic Livelihood Security Program benefits and longest-held job characteristics were linked to health-related unemployment, despite having similar health levels.

Conclusions

Older age and low socioeconomic status can increase the risk of health-related unemployment, highlighting the presence of age discrimination and socioeconomic inequality. These findings underscore the importance of proactive management strategies aimed at addressing these disparities, which are crucial for reducing the heightened risk of health-related unemployment.

연령과 사회경제적 요인이 건강 관련 실업에 미치는 영향: 성향점수매칭을 활용한 한국 국민건강영양조사(2015-2017)자료 분석 결과
목적
이전 연구들에서 연령 및 사회경제적 요인들이 건강 관련 실업을 연관되어 있다는 것을 보여주었으나, 이러한 연구들은 교란 요인을 통제하는 데 한계가 있었다. 본 연구는 다양한 교란 변수를 통제하기 위해 성향점수매칭을 사용하여 건강 관련 실업에 기여하는 요인들을 분석하고자 하였다.
방법
2015년부터 2017년까지 조사된 국민건강영양조사 자료를 활용하였으며, 건강 관련 실업군을 취업군과 비교하였다. 우리는 1:1 성향점수매칭을 적용하여 두 군 간의 건강관련 요인을 통제하였으며, 조건부 로지스틱 회귀 분석을 통해 건강 관련 실업과 연령 및 사회경제적 요인 간의 관련성을 조사하였다.
결과
9,917명의 참가자(5,817명의 여성, 4,100명의 남성) 가운데 건강 관련 실업군은 1,182명(853명의 여성, 329명의 남성), 취업군은 5,777명(2,894명의 여성, 2,883명의 남성)이었다. 성향점수매칭 후 조건부 로지스틱 회귀의 결과, 고령, 낮은 개인 및 가구 소득, 낮은 교육 수준, 기초생활수급상태, 최장일자리의 성격이 건강 관련 실업과 연관되었다.
결론
고령과 낮은 사회경제적 지위는 건강 관련 실업의 위험을 증가시킬 수 있으며, 이는 연령 차별 및 사회경제적 불평등을 시사한다. 따라서 건강 관련 실업 위험을 완화하기 위해서는 이러한 차별을 해소하기 위한 적극적인 관리 방안이 필요하다.

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Scientific Reports.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

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Original Article

Incidence rates of injury, musculoskeletal, skin, pulmonary and chronic diseases among construction workers by classification of occupations in South Korea: a 1,027 subject-based cohort of the Korean Construction Worker’s Cohort (KCWC): Seungho Lee, Yoon-Ji Kim, Youngki Kim, Dongmug Kang, Seung Chan Kim, Se-Yeong Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e26. Published online July 24, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e26

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

The objective of this study is to investigate the differences in incidence rates of targeted diseases by classification of occupations among construction workers in Korea.

Methods

In a subject-based cohort of the Korean Construction Worker’s Cohort, we surveyed a total of 1,027 construction workers. As occupational exposure, the classification of occupations was developed using two axes: construction business and job type. To analyze disease incidence, we linked survey data with National Health Insurance Service data. Eleven target disease categories with high prevalence or estimated work-relatedness among construction workers were evaluated in our study. The average incidence rates were calculated as cases per 1,000 person-years (PY).

Results

Injury, poisoning, and certain other consequences of external causes had the highest incidence rate of 344.08 per 1,000 PY, followed by disease of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue for 208.64 and diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue for 197.87 in our cohort. We especially found that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was more common in construction painters, civil engineering welders, and civil engineering frame mold carpenters, asthma in construction painters, landscape, and construction water proofers, interstitial lung diseases in construction water proofers.

Conclusions

This is the first study to systematically classify complex construction occupations in order to analyze occupational diseases in Korean construction workers. There were differences in disease incidences among construction workers based on the classification of occupations. It is necessary to develop customized occupational safety and health policies for high-risk occupations for each disease in the construction industry.

한국 건설업 종사자의 손상, 근골격계 질환, 피부, 호흡기 및 만성질환의 건설 직종에 따른 발생률: 한국 건설업 종사자 코호트(KCWC) 의 1027명 대상자 기반 세부 코호트 분석
목적
본 연구의 목적은 한국 건설업 종사자에 있어 주요 질환의 건설 직종별 발생률 차이를 알아보는 것이다.
방법
한국 건설업 종사자 코호트(KCWC)의 대상자 기반 세부 코호트로 총 1,027명의 건설업 종사자가 1:1면접설문조사를 통해 입적되었다. 직업적 노출요인으로 직종은 크게 건설산업환경과 직무 두 가지 축으로 분류되었다: 직업적 노출(설문조사) 자료와 국민건강보험공단 청구 맞춤형 자료를 연계하여 질환의 평균 발생률을 분석하였다. 주요 질환은 건설업 종사자에서 유병률이 높거나 업무 관련성이 있을 것으로 추정되는 11개의 대상 질환을 평가하였다. 질환별 평균 발생률은 1,000인년당 발병 사례수(명)으로 계산하였다.
결과
손상, 중독 및 외인에 의한 특정 기타 결과가 1,000인년당 344.08명으로 가장 높은 발생률을 보였고, 그 다음으로 근골격계 및 결체조직의 질환이 1,000인년당 208.64명, 피부 및 피하조직 질환이 1,000인녕당 197.87명 순으로 높았다. 특히, 만성 폐쇄성 폐질환이 건축 도장공, 토목 용접공, 토목 형틀목공에서 타 직종에 비해 상대적으로 높은 발생률을 보였고, 천식은 건축 도장공, 조경, 건축 방수공에서, 간질성 폐질환은 건축 방수공에서 상대적으로 높은 발생률을 보였다.
결론
본 연구는 한국 건설업 종사자의 주요 직업성 질환 및 호발 질환 등을 복잡한 건설산업의 직종을 체계적으로 분류하여 분석한 최초의 연구로 연구진들은 건설업 종사자의 질환별 발생률에 있어 직종별 차이를 확인하였다. 건설 산업에서 각 질환별 고위험 직종별로 맞춤형 산업안전보건정책 개발이 필요하다.

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Occupational disease monitoring by the Korea Occupational Disease Surveillance Center: a narrative review
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Editorial

Introducing a Korean sickness benefit scheme: toward universal health coverage: Sang Baek Koh, Kyunghee Jung-Choi; Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e20. Published online July 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e20

PDF

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Original Article

The risk of insomnia by work schedule instability in Korean firefighters: Saebomi Jeong, Jeonghun Kim, Sung-Soo Oh, Hee-Tae Kang, Yeon-Soon Ahn, Kyoung Sook Jeong; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e24. Published online September 10, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e24

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background
Firefighters are exposed to shift work, as well as unpredictable emergency calls and traumatic events, which can lead to sleep problems. This study aimed to investigate the risk of insomnia by work schedule instability in Korean firefighters.
Methods
This study used the Insomnia Severity Index to assess the insomnia in firefighters. The work schedule stability was classified with the frequency of the substitute work and the timing of notification for work schedule changes. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the adjusted odds ratio of insomnia by work schedule stability with covariates including sex, age, education, smoking, alcohol, caffeine intake, shift type, job, and underlying conditions.
Results
Of the 8,587 individuals, 751 (8.75%) had moderate to severe insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index ≥ 15). The prevalence of insomnia was statistically significantly higher as the frequency of substitute work increased: <1 time per month (6.8%), 1–2 times (9.5%), 3–5 times (13.4%), and more than 5 times (15.7%) (p < 0.001). Additionally, the prevalence of insomnia was statistically significantly higher when the timing of the schedule change notification was urgent or irregular: no change or several weeks before (5.4%), several days before (7.9%), one day before or on the day (11.2%), irregularly notification (11.6%) (p < 0.001). In comparison to the group with good frequency of the substitute work/good timing of schedule change notification group, the adjusted odds ratios of insomnia were 1.480 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.237–1.771) for Good/Bad group, 1.862 (95% CI: 1.340–2.588) for Bad/Good group, and 1.885 (95% CI: 1.366–2.602) for Bad/Bad group.
Conclusions
Work schedule instability was important risk factor of insomnia in firefighters. It suggests that improving the stability of work schedules could be a key strategy for reducing sleep problems in this occupational group.

한국 교대근무 소방관에서 근무 스케줄 불안정성에 따른 불면증 유병 위험
목적
한국 교대근무 소방관에서 근무 스케줄 불안정성이 불면증 유병 위험을 평가하였다.
방법
한국판 불면증 심각도 평가척도를 이용하여 불면증을 평가하였다. 근무 스케줄 안정성으로는 월별 대체 근무 횟수 및 근무일정 변경 통보 시점으로 분류하였다. 월별 대체 근무 횟수 및 근무일정 변경 통보 시점을 각각 좋음, 나쁨으로 분류하고, 두 요인을 조합하여 좋음/좋음, 좋음/나쁨, 나쁨/좋음, 나쁨/나쁨의 4개 그룹으로 나누었다. 통계분석은 카이제곱검정, t-검정, 로지스틱 회귀 분석을 사용하였다.
결과
8,587명 중 751명(8.75%)은 중등도 이상의 불면증이 있었다. 별 대체근무 일수가 증가할수록, 근무 일정 변화를 미리 고지하지 않을수록 불면증 유병률이 유의하게 높았다. 4개의 그룹으로 나누어 근무 예측 가능성과 불면증의 연관성을 분석한 결과, 대체 근무 빈도가 “좋음”그룹/근무일정 변경 통보 시점이 “좋음” 그룹과 비교하여 불면증의 보정 비차비는 “좋음/나쁨” 그룹은 1.480(95%신뢰구간: 1.237~1.771), “나쁨/좋음” 그룹은 1.862(95% CI: 1.340~2.588), “나쁨/나쁨”그룹은 1.885(95% CI: 1.366~2.602)였다.
결론
근무 스케줄 안정성이 좋지 못할수록 불면증의 위험성이 높았다.

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Original Article

Association between shift work and the risk of hypothyroidism in adult male workers in Korea: a cohort study: Seonghyeon Kwon, Yesung Lee, Eunhye Seo, Daehoon Kim, Jaehong Lee, Youshik Jeong, Jihoon Kim, Jinsook Jeong, Woncheol Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e41. Published online October 19, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e41

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Shift work has been reported to have several harmful effects on the human body. However, a small number of studies have evaluated the association between shift work and adverse effects on the thyroid. In our longitudinal study, we examined the causal association between shift work and the risk of hypothyroidism.

Methods

A Kangbuk Samsung Cohort Study was conducted on 112,648 men without thyroid disease at baseline who were followed up at least once between 2012 and 2019. Shift work status and shift schedule types were categorized using standardized questionnaires. Hypothyroidism was defined using the reference ranges of serum thyroid-stimulating hormones and free thyroxine levels. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident hypothyroidism were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression analyses with the daytime work group as the reference.

Results

During the 501,237 person-years of follow-up, there were 6,306 incident cases of hypothyroidism (incidence density, 1.26 per 100 person-years). The multivariable-adjusted HR of incident hypothyroidism for the shift work total group that included all shifts compared with the daytime work group was 1.27 (95% CI: 1.15–1.40). For the fixed evening, fixed night, rotating shift, and other shift workers, the multivariable-adjusted HRs (95% CI) were 1.11 (0.76–1.61), 2.18 (1.20–3.93), 1.39 (1.23–1.56), and 1.00 (0.82–1.22), respectively. In subgroup analyses by age, the association between shift work and hypothyroidism was more pronounced in younger participants (< 40 years; HR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.16–1.47).

Conclusions

Our large-scale cohort study showed an association between shift work and the incidence of hypothyroidism, especially in younger workers with night shifts.

한국 성인 남성 근로자에서 교대근무와 갑상선 기능 저하증 위험의 연관성: 코호트 연구
목적
교대 근무는 인체에 여러 가지 해로운 영향을 미치는 것으로 보고되어 왔다. 그러나 소수의 연구만이 교대 근무와 갑상선에 대한 이상 반응 사이의 연관성을 평가하였다. 따라서 이번 종단 연구에서는, 교대 근무와 갑상선 기능 저하증의 위험 간의 인과 관계를 평가하고자 한다.
방법
본 강북삼성 코호트 연구는 2012년과 2019년 사이에 최소 한 번 이상 추적 검사를 받았고, 연구 시작 시점에서 갑상선 질환이 없는 112,648명의 남성을 대상으로 수행되었다. 표준화된 설문지를 이용하여 교대근무 현황 및 교대근무 유형을 분류하였다. 갑상선 기능 저하증은 혈청 갑상선 자극 호르몬과 유리 티록신 수치의 참고치를 기준으로 정의되었다. 갑상선 기능 저하증에 대한 위험비(HR)와 95% 신뢰구간(CI)은 주간 근무 그룹을 기준으로 콕스 비례위험 회귀분석을 사용하여 추정되었다.
결과
501,237인년의 추적 조사 기간 중 6,306건의 갑상선 기능 저하증 케이스가 발생하였다 (발생밀도, 100인년당 1.26). 주간 근무 그룹과 비교하여 모든 교대 근무 유형을 포함한 그룹에 대한 갑상선 기능 저하증의 다변량 조정 위험비는 1.27 (95% 신뢰구간, 1.15–1.40)이었다. 고정 저녁, 고정 야간, 윤번 교대 및 기타 교대 근무 그룹의 경우 다변량 조정 위험비 (95% 신뢰구간)는 각각 1.11 (0.76–1.61), 2.18 (1.20–3.93), 1.39 (1.23–1.56) 및 1.00 (0.82–1.22)이었다. 연령에 따른 하위집단 분석에서 교대근무와 갑상선 기능 저하증의 연관성은 젊은 참가자들에게서 더 두드러졌다 (<40세; 위험비, 1.31; 95% 신뢰구간, 1.16–1.47).
결론
본 대규모 코호트 연구를 통해 특히 야간 근무를 하는 젊은 근로자들에서, 교대 근무와 갑상선 기능 저하증 발생 사이의 연관성을 확인할 수 있었다.

Citations

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Outdoor light at night exposure was associated with hypothyroidism in pregnant women: A national study in China
Hong-Xing Zou, Li-Wen Hu, Zheng Zhang, Alexander E.P. Heazell, Xueran Wang, Wentao Yue, Xiao-Fan Lu, Xiao-Yi Liu, Shuo Zhang, Le-Bing Wang, Enjie Zhang, Shaofei Su, Shen Gao, Shuanghua Xie, Jianhui Liu, Yue Zhang, Ruixia Liu, Guang-Hui Dong, Chenghong Yin
Science of The Total Environment.2025; 958: 178017. CrossRef

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Original Article

The impact of long working hours on daily sodium intake: Kyungho Ju, Yangwoo Kim, Seung Hee Woo, Juhyeong Kim, Inah Kim, Jaechul Song, Soo-Jin Lee, Jeehee Min; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e9. Published online April 1, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e9

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

Long working hours are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, yet the underlying mechanism(s) remain unclear. The study examines how occupational factors like working hours, shift work, and employment status correlate with dietary choices and sodium intake, impacting hypertension risk.

Methods

This study used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2013 and 2020. The dataset included 8,471 respondents, all of whom were wage workers aged 20 or older and reported working at least 36 hours per week. Individuals who have been previously diagnosed with or are currently diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia were excluded. The average daily sodium intake was assessed via a 24-hour dietary recall method. Average weekly working hours were categorized into 3 groups: 36–40 hours, 41–52 hours, and over 52 hours. Multiple logistic regression models were used.

Results

Study findings revealed that 83.7% of participants exceeded the recommended daily sodium intake of 2 g set by the World Health Organization. After adjusting for confounding factors, a positive correlation was observed between average working hours and daily sodium intake. Among males, statistical significance was found in the group with average weekly working hours of 41–52 hours (prevalence ratio [PR]: 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05–1.30) and the group exceeding 52 hours (PR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.09–1.38) when comparing the fourth quartile of daily sodium intake to the combined quartiles of Q1, Q2, and Q3. Among females, no significance was noted.

Conclusions

Long working hours were associated with increased sodium intake, primarily among male workers. This connection is likely attributed to having less time for home-cooked meals, resulting in higher fast food consumption and dining out. A workplace intervention promoting healthy eating and reducing stress is essential to lower sodium consumption and mitigate hypertension risk.

장시간 근무가 일일 소듐 섭취량에 미치는 영향
목적
장시간 근무는 심혈관 질환의 증가와 관련이 있다고 알려져 있지만, 그 메커니즘은 명확히 알려져 있지 않다. 본 연구는 주당 평균 근로시간, 교대근무 및 고용 형태 등의 직업적 요인과 식습관 변화 간의 관계를 확인하고, 특히 고혈압의 알려진 위험 요인인 과다한 소듐 섭취와의 관련성을 조사하였다.
방법
본 연구는 2013년부터 2020년까지 실시된 대한민국 국민건강영양조사의 데이터를 사용하였다. 연구대상자는 20세 이상의 임금 근로자, 주당 최소 36시간 이상 근무하는 자로 선정하였다. 이 외에도 다양한 인구학적, 직업 변수가 설문 조사를 통해 수집되었으며, 평균 일일 소듐 섭취량은 24시간 회상법을 통해 조사되었다. 주당 평균 근무 시간은 36-40시간, 41-52시간 및 52시간 이상의 세 집단으로 분류되었다. 다중 로지스틱 회귀 모델이 분석에 사용되었다.
결과
연구대상자 중 83.7%가 세계보건기구(WHO)에서 권장한 일일 나트륨 섭취량인 2g을 초과한 것이 확인되었다. 교란변수 보정 후에도 주당 평균 근로시간과 일일 소듐 섭취 간의 통계적 유의성이 확인되었다. 남성에 대하여, 주당 평균 근무 시간이 41-52시간인 그룹 (PR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.05-1.30)과 52시간을 초과한 그룹 (PR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.09-1.38)이 일일 소듐 섭취량 4분위에서 1, 2, 3분위를 포함한 그룹과와 비교하여 통계적으로 유의미한 관련이 있었다. 여성에 대하여는 통계적으로 유의미하지 않았다.
결론
장시간 근무는 주로 남성 근로자에서 소듐 섭취 증가와 관련이 있었다. 이는 가정에서 조리하는 시간이 줄어들어 패스트 푸드 및 외식 소비가 증가하는 것에 기인한 것으로 생각된다. 과량의 소듐 섭취는 고혈압의 알려진 위험 요인이므로, 직장에서의 적극적인 개입을 통해, 더 건강한 식습관과 개선된 근무 환경을 통해 소듐 섭취를 줄이는 것이 필요하다.

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Social Science & Medicine.2025; 379: 118183. CrossRef
Association between long working hours and poor cardiovascular health assessed by the American Heart Association’s “Life’s essential 8”: findings from a nationally representative sample of Korean workers (2014–2021)
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Special Article

Problems and suggested improvement plans for occupational health service in Korea: Dongmug Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e10. Published online May 11, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e10

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

The purpose of this paper was to review the problems relating to Korea’s occupational health services and suggest ways to improve them. Korea can be classified as a welfare state type of conservative corporatism partially interwoven with liberalism. While experiencing compressed economic growth, the economic sectors of developed (excess areas) and developing (deficient areas) countries are interwoven. Therefore, it is necessary to perfect conservative corporatism along with a complementary reinforcement of liberal contents and to apply a multilayered approach focusing on complementing the deficient areas. It is essential to form a national representative indicator related to occupational health, and a strategy for selection and concentration is needed. The proposed central indicator is the occupational health coverage rate (OHCR), which is the number of workers who have applied for mandatory occupational health services under the Occupational Safety and Health Act in the numerator with the total working population in the denominator. This paper proposes ways to raise the OHCR, which is currently at the level of 25%–40%, to 70%–80%, which is the level of Japan, Germany, and France. To achieve this target, it is necessary to focus on small businesses and vulnerable workers. This is an area of market failure and requires the active input of community-oriented public resources. For access to larger workplaces, the marketability of services should be strengthened and personal intervention using digital health resources should be actively attempted. Taking a national perspective, work environment improvement committees with tripartite (labor, management, and government) participation for improvement of the working environment need to be established at the center and in the regions. Through this, prevention funds linked to industrial accident compensation and prevention could be used efficiently. A national chemical substance management system must be established to monitor the health of workers and the general public.

한국의 직업보건서비스의 문제점과 개선 방안
한국의 직업보건서비스의 문제점을 살펴보고 개선 방안을 제시하고자 하였다. 발간된 논문과 보고서 및 2022년의 산업보건환경 변화에 따른 대응방안 연구(정책포럼)1의 결과를 중심으로 조사하였다. 한국은 보수적조합주의를 근간으로 한 자유주의가 가미된 형태의 복지국가유형으로 분류할 수 있고, 압축적 경제성장을 경험하면서 선진국과 개발도상국의 영역이 섞여 있어 과잉과 결핍이 혼재되어 있다. 따라서 한국의 직업보건서비스의 발전을 위해서는 보수조합주의적 완성도를 높이면서 부수적으로 자유주의적 내용을 보완하여야 하며, 동일한 발전단계에 대한 단일한 접근법 보다는 결핍영역에 대한 보완을 중심으로 한 중층적 접근법이 필요하다. 직업보건관련 중심적 지표를 형성하고 이에 대한 선택과 집중전략이 필요하며, 중심지표로는 현재 25~40% 수준에 머물러 있는 직업보건 적용율을 독일, 프랑스, 일본 수준인 70~80% 수준으로 제고하는 것을 목표로 삼기를 제안한다. 이렇게 하기 위해서는 소규모 사업장과 취약한 노동자에 대해 집중하여야 하며, 이 영역은 시장실패영역으로서 지역중심의 공공자원의 적극적 투입이 필요한데, 전국 보건소 숫자인 256개 정도의 지역에 지역 직업보건 지원센터를 건립할 것을 제안한다. 중규모 이상의 사업장에 대한 접근으로는 서비스의 수요에 기반한 시장성을 강화하고 디지털헬스를 이용한 개인영역의 중재를 적극 시도하여야 한다. 전국적차원에서 사업장 작업환경개선과 중재를 위한 노사정이 참여하는 작업환경개선위원회를 중앙과 지역에 설치하고, 이를 통해 산재보상과 예방을 연계한 예방기금을 효율적으로 사용하도록 한다. 국가 차원의 화학물질 관리체계를 구축하고, 근로자와 일반국민의 건강을 모니터링할 수 있어야 한다

Citations

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Perspectives from the new president of the Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Medicine: future strategies for occupational and environmental medicine
Sang Baek Ko
Ann Occup Environ Med.2025; 37: e1. CrossRef
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Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Journal of Affective Disorders.2024; 351: 931. CrossRef
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Case Report

Glioblastoma in a paper industry worker exposed to high concentrations of formaldehyde: a case report: Youngshin Lee, Jiwoon Kwon, Miyeon Jang, Seongwon Ma, Kyo Yeon Jun, Minjoo Yoon, Shinhee Ye; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e17. Published online July 5, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e17

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material: Background
Formaldehyde was classified as a Group I Carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 2006. While the IARC has stated that there is a lack of evidence that formaldehyde causes brain cancer, three meta-analyses have consistently reported a significantly higher risk of brain cancer in workers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde. Therefore, we report a case of a worker who was diagnosed with glioblastoma after being exposed to high concentrations of formaldehyde while working with formaldehyde resin in the paper industry.
Case presentation
A 40-year-old male patient joined an impregnated paper manufacturer and performed impregnation work using formaldehyde resin for 10 years and 2 months. In 2017, the patient experienced a severe headache and visited the hospital for brain magnetic resonance imaging, which revealed a mass. In the same year, the patient underwent a craniotomy for brain tumor resection and was diagnosed with glioblastoma of the temporal lobe. In 2019, a craniotomy was performed owing to the recurrence of the brain tumor, but he died in 2020. An exposure assessment of the work environment determined that the patient was exposed to formaldehyde above the exposure threshold of 0.3 ppm continuously for more than 10 years and that he had high respiratory and dermal exposure through performing work without wearing a respirator or protective gloves.
Conclusions
This case report represents the first instance where the epidemiological investigation and evaluation committee of the Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute in Korea recognized the scientific evidence of work-related brain tumors due to long-term exposure to high concentrations of formaldehyde during impregnated paperwork. This case highlights the importance of proper workplace management, informing workers that prolonged exposure to formaldehyde in impregnation work can cause brain tumors and minimizing exposure in similar processes.; 고농도 포름알데히드에 노출된 제지 산업 근로자에서 발생한 교모세포종: 사례보고
배경
포름알데히드는 2006년 국제암연구소(IARC)에서 1군 발암 물질로 분류되었다. IARC는 포름알데히드가 뇌종양을 유발한다는 증거가 부족하다고 밝혔지만, 세 건의 메타 분석에서 고농도의 포름알데히드에 노출된 근로자의 뇌종양 위험도가 상당히 높다고 일관되게 보고했다. 이에 포름알데히드 수지를 사용하는 제지 산업에서 근무하던 중 고농도의 포름알데히드에 노출되어 교모세포종 진단을 받은 근로자의 사례를 보고하고자 한다.
증례
40세 남성 환자는 함침지 제조업체에 입사하여 10년 2개월 동안 포름알데히드 수지를 사용한 함침 작업을 수행했다. 2017년 9월, 환자는 심한 두통을 느껴 병원을 방문하여 촬영한 뇌 자기공명영상(MRI)의 결과에서 종양이 발견되었다. 같은 해에 환자는 뇌종양 절제를 위해 개두술을 시행하였고 측두엽의 교모세포종을 진단받았다. 2019년 뇌종양 재발로 개두술을 시행하였지만 치료에도 불구하고 2020년 사망하였다. 환자의 작업환경 노출 평가 결과, 10년 이상 지속적으로 노출 기준치인 0.3ppm 이상의 포름알데히드에 노출되었고, 호흡기나 보호 장갑을 착용하지 않고 작업을 수행해 호흡기 및 피부 노출이 높았던 것으로 확인되었다.
고찰
본 사례는 국내 산업안전보건연구원 역학조사평가위원회가 함침 작업 중 고농도 포름알데히드에 장기간 노출되어 업무상 뇌종양이 발생하였다는 과학적 근거를 인정한 첫 사례이다. 이 사례를 통해 함침 작업에서 포름알데히드에 장기간 노출되면 뇌종양이 발생할 수 있음을 근로자에게 알리고 유사한 공정에서 노출을 최소화하는 등 적절한 작업환경관리의 필요성을 강조한다.

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Original Article

Associations of chronotype and insomnia with menstrual problems in newly employed nurses at university hospitals in the Republic of Korea: Han-Na Jung, Dongwhan Suh, Woo Chul Jeong, Jia Ryu, Yu-Mi Kim, Seohyun Yoon, Hyunjoo Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e30. Published online August 4, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e30

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

Dysmenorrhea and menstrual cycle changes occur in women working shifts. Circadian rhythm disruption and sleep disturbances associated with shift work leads to health problems. We identified chronotypes and the occurrence of insomnia among newly employed university hospital nurses and investigated the association of these factors with menstrual problems.

Methods

We conducted pre-placement health examinations for shift workers using self-reported questionnaires between 2018 and 2020. A total of 463 nurses were included in the study. Sociodemographic data, shift work experience, and information on insomnia were collected from health examination data. In addition, details regarding chronotype, dysmenorrhea, irregular and abnormal menstrual cycles, amenorrhea, and contraceptive use were obtained from the questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to study the association between chronotype, insomnia, and menstrual problems after controlling for age, body mass index, contraceptive use, amenorrhea, and prior shift work.

Results

The prevalence rates of dysmenorrhea, irregular menstrual cycles, and longer menstrual cycles were 23.8%, 14.9%, and 4.1%, respectively. The risk of dysmenorrhea increased in the evening-type (odds ratio [OR]: 3.209; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.685–6.113) and those with insomnia (OR: 1.871; 95% CI: 1.074–3.261). Additionally, the risk of an irregular menstrual cycle (OR: 2.698; 95% CI: 1.167–6.237) increased in the evening-type, and the risk of a longer menstrual cycle (OR: 4.008; 95% CI: 1.354–11.864) increased in individuals with insomnia.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that dysmenorrhea is promoted in the evening-type and insomnia individuals. There may be an increased risk of irregular menstrual cycles among evening-type nurses and an increased risk of longer menstrual cycles among those with insomnia. Therefore, factors such as evening-type and insomnia should be considered for the prevention of menstrual problems in women performing shift work.

대학병원 신입 간호사에서 수면 관련 요인과 월경 건강과의 연관성
목적
이 연구는 간호사의 건강증진을 위한 효과적인 전략을 개발하는 데 있어 근거자료를 제공하는 것을 목적으로 하며, 구체적으로 일주기리듬 유형(크로노 타입) 및 불면 증상과 월경 건강 관련 문제들과의 연관성을 파악하였다.
방법
연구 대상자는 야간작업에 대한 배치 전 건강진단을 받은 두 개 대학병원에서 근무 중인 463명의 신규 간호사이다. 배치 전 건강진단 자료에서 연령, 체질량지수, 흡연, 음주, 운동 정도, 이전 교대 근무 경험 여부, 불면 증상에 대한 정보를 확보하였다. 일주기 리듬 유형, 피임방법 사용 여부, 무월경 경험, 월경통 및 월경주기의 규칙성과 간격에 대한 정보는 설문조사로 확인하였다. 연령, 체질량지수, 피임방법 사용 여부, 무월경 경험, 교대 근무 경험을 통제하여 일주기리듬 유형 및 불면 증상의 월경 건강 관련 문제들에 대한 위험비를 산출하기 위해 다중 로지스틱 회귀 분석을 수행하였다.
결과
월경곤란증, 불규칙한 월경주기, 긴 월경주기의 유병률은 각각 23.8%, 14.9%, 4.1%였다. 월경통에서 저녁형 일주기리듬 유형의 오즈비가 저녁형 외 일주기리듬 유형 그룹에 비해 3.209배(95% C.I. 1.685-6.113) 높았고, 불면 증상이 있다면 1.871배 (95% C.I. 1.074-3.261) 높았다. 또한 저녁형 일주기 리듬은 월경주기 간격이 불규칙한 경우에(오즈비 2.698 95% C.I. 1.167-6.237), 불면 증상이 있다면 40일 이상의 긴 월경 주기에(오즈비 4.008 95% C.I. 1.354-11.864) 각각 통계적으로 유의한 영향을 미치는 것을 확인하였다.
결론
우리 연구 결과로 저녁형 일주기리듬 유형 간호사에서 월경통과 불규칙 월경 이상이 관찰될 확률이 더 높고, 불면 증상이 있는 집단에서 월경통과 긴 월경주기가 증가할 가능성을 유추할 수 있다. 저녁형 일주기리듬과 불면 증상 같은 요인들은 여성 근로자의 월경 건강에 악영향을 미치는 경로를 연구하는 데 있어 고려해야 할 것들 중 하나가 될 수 있다.

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The Relationship Between Chronotype and Social Jetlag in Adolescents: Are Premenstrual Symptoms a Mediator?
Esra Uslu, Türkan Peşkirci, Hülya Çelik
Psikiyatride Guncel Yaklasimlar - Current Approaches in Psychiatry.2025; 17(Supplement): 26. CrossRef

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Original Article

Mediation analysis of chronotype, sleep-related factors, and depressive symptoms among workers: a cross-sectional study: Seo Young Kim, Hyo Jeong Kim, Seong-Sik Cho, Min Young Park, Mo-Yeol Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e47. Published online November 20, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e47

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF Supplementary Material

Background

This study aimed to examine the impact of chronotype on depressive symptoms and explore the mediating effects of sleep quality, pre-sleep cognitive arousal, and social jetlag in a sample of wage earners.

Methods

A total of 3,917 waged workers were surveyed online in July 2022. Logistic regression and mediation analysis were used to assess the relationship between chronotype (morningness, intermediate, and eveningness) and depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire ≥ 5), and the mediating effects of Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Pre-Sleep Arousal Scale (PSAS). All analyses were adjusted for age, education level, income level, marital status, coffee consumption, alcohol consumption, physical activity, occupation, employment status, and working hours to calculate odds ratios (ORs).

Results

The chronotypes of all the participants were divided into morningness (4.7%), intermediate (93.5%), and eveningness (1.8%). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed an increased risk of depression in the eveningness chronotype (OR: 2.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.51, 5.86). Regarding the mediation analysis, ISI mediated 28.44% (95% CI: 16.39–40.5), PSQI for 31.25% (95% CI: 19.36, 43.15), and PSAS-Cognitive Score (PSAS-C) for 23.58% (95% CI: 10.66, 36.50) of the association between chronotype and depressive symptoms. However, social jetlag did not significantly mediate this relationship. (percentage mediated = 0.75%, 95% CI: −3.88, 5.39)

Conclusions

Evening chronotypes exhibit an increased risk of depressive symptoms, which ISI, PSQI, and PSAS-C partially mediated. This suggests that interventions to improve sleep quality and maintain adequate sleep habits may effectively prevent and treat depression in employees with an eveningness chronotype.

직장인의 크로노타입이 우울 증상에 미치는 영향과 수면 관련 요인의 매개 분석
목적
본 연구는 국내 임금 근로자를 대상으로 크로노타입이 우울 증상에 미치는 영향과 수면의 질, 수면 전 인지적 각성, 사회적 시차 등의 매개 효과에 대해 분석하고자 한다.
방법
2022년 7월 온라인 설문조사를 통해 모집한 만 19세 이상의 임금 근로자 3917명을 대상으로 분석을 시행하였다. 로지스틱 회귀분석으로 성별을 층화하여 크로노타입 (아침형, 중간형, 저녁형)과 우울증상 간의 관계를 살펴본 후, 매개효과 분석을 통해 불면척도, 수면의 질, 수면 전 각성 척도, 사회적 시차의 각각의 우울 증상에 대한 매개 효과를 계산했다. 모든 분석은 연령, 교육수준, 소득, 결혼 여부, 동거인 여부, 커피, 흡연, 음주, 신체활동, 직종, 고용형태, 근무 시간을 보정하였다.
결과
참가자는 아침형(4.7%), 중간형(93.5%), 저녁형(1.8%)으로 나뉘었다. 인구사회학적 특성 및 업무 관련 요인을 통제한 다중 로지스틱 회귀분석 결과, 저녁형 그룹에서 우울증상 오즈비는 2.95 (95% 신뢰구간: 1.51–5.86)로 아침형 그룹에 비해 높게 나타났다. 매개 분석 결과에서 불면 척도는 28.44% (95% 신뢰구간 16.39–40.5), 수면의 질은 31.25% (95% 신뢰구간 19.36–43.15), 수면 전 인지적 각성척도은 23.58% (95% 신뢰구간 10.66–36.50)를 매개하였다. 그러나 사회적 시차는 매개 효과가 0.75% (95% 신뢰구간 -3.88–5.39)로 유의하지 않은 것으로 나타났다.
결론
본 연구 결과에 따르면 저녁형 크로노타입을 가진 근로자들이 아침형 근로자보다 우울증상의 위험도가 증가하는 것으로 나타났으며, 이에 대한 매개 효과 분석에서는 불면 척도, 수면의 질과 수면 전 인지적 각성이 우울 증상을 부분적으로 매개하는 것으로 나타났다. 이는 저녁형 크로노타입 근로자들과 같은 우울증의 상대적 고위험군에서 수면의 질을 개선하고 수면 습관을 적절히 유지하도록 개입하는 것이 우울증의 예방 및 치료에 효과적일 수 있음을 시사한다.

Citations

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Data profile: Korean Work, Sleep, and Health Study (KWSHS)
Seong-Sik Cho, Jeehee Min, Heejoo Ko, Mo-Yeol Kang
Ann Occup Environ Med.2025; 37: e3. CrossRef
Increased risk of herpes zoster associated with stress and sleep deprivation: Evidence from korea health panel survey
Youjin Kim, Wanhyung Lee
Journal of Psychiatric Research.2025; 184: 333. CrossRef
Validation of the Norwegian version of the Munich ChronoType Questionnaire for shift workers (MCTQ Shift )
Line Victoria Moen, Tarjei L. Rysstad, Jenny-Anne S. Lie, Fred Haugen, Dagfinn Matre
Chronobiology International.2025; : 1. CrossRef
Work ability and health-related productivity loss by chronotype: Results from population-based panel study
Heejoo Ko, Seong-Sik Cho, Mo-Yeol Kang
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Huiyuan Zhao, Jinhong Chen
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Jeehee Min, Tae-Won Jang, Hye-Eun Lee, Mo-Yeol Kang, Seong-Sik Cho
Epidemiology and Health.2024; 46: e2024082. CrossRef

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Original Article

Relationship between crustacean consumption and serum perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycle 4: Sung Woo Huh, Seong-yong Cho, Seongyong Yoon, Daehwan Kim, Hyun Woo Park, Jisoo Kang, Keon Woo Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2024;36:e12. Published online April 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2024.36.e12

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are non-aromatic organic compounds, whose hydrogen atoms in the carbon chain substituted by fluorine atoms. PFASs exhibit developmental toxicity, carcinogenicity, hepatotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, immunotoxicity, and hormone toxicity. PFASs are used in the production of disposable food packages, aircraft and automobile devices, cooking utensils, outdoor gear, furniture and carpets, aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), cables and wires, electronics, and semiconductors. This study aimed to determine the association between crustacean consumption and serum PFASs.

Methods

Adult participants (2,993) aged ≥ 19 years were extracted from the 4th cycle data of the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS). Based on the 50th percentile concentrations of serum PFASs, participants were divided into the low-concentration group (LC) and the high-concentration group (HC). General characteristics, dietary factors, coated product usage, and personal care product usage, an independent t-test and χ² test were analyzed. The odds ratio (OR) of serum PFAS concentration against crustacean consumption was estimated via logistic regression analysis adjusting for general characteristics, dietary factors, coated product usage, and personal care product usage.

Results

The OR for the HC of serum PFASs was higher in individuals with ≥once a week crustacean consumption than in those with < once a week crustacean consumption. Estimated ORs were perfluorohexanesulfonic acid 2.15 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.53–3.02), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) 1.23 (95% CI: 1.07–1.41), and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDeA) 1.42 (95% CI: 1.17–1.74) in males, and perfluorooctanoic acid 1.48 (95% CI: 1.19–1.84), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid 1.39 (95% CI: 1.27–1.52), PFNA 1.70 (95% CI: 1.29–2.26) and PFDeA 1.43 (95% CI: 1.32–1.54) in females.

Conclusions

This study revealed the association between the crustacean consumption and concentrations of serum PFASs in general Korean population.

제4기(2018-2020) 국민환경보건 기초조사 자료를 이용한 갑각률 섭취와 혈청 괍불화화합물(PFAS)과의 관계
목적
과불화화합물은 탄소 사슬에 결합 되어 있는 수소 원자가 불소 원자로 대체된 비방향족 유기 화합물이다. PFAS 는 발달 독성, 발암성, 간 독성, 생식 독성, 면역 독성, 신경 독성 및 호르몬 독성 등을 가진다. PFAS는 일회용 식품 포장, 항공, 자동차, 조리기구, 아웃도어 용품, 가구 및 카펫, 수성막포, 케이블 및 배선, 전자 및 반도체 생산에 사용된다. 본 연구에서는 국가를 대표하는 조사인 한국 국민환경보건 기초조사(KoNEHS) 4주기의 데이터를 사용하여 갑각류 섭취와 혈청 PFAS노출과의 연관성을 확인하려고 한다.
방법
KoNEHS 4주기의 데이터에서 19세 이상 성인 2,993명의 참가자를 분석하였다. 혈청 PFAS 의 50번째 백분위 수 농도를 기준으로 저농도군과 고농도군으로 나누었다. 연구대상의 혈청 PFAS 농도와 일반적 특성, 식이요인, 코팅용품 사용, 미용제품 사용간의 분포 및 평균을 비교하기 위하여 독립 t-검정과 χ2 테스트를 실시하였다. 갑각류 섭취에 대한 혈청 PFAS의 승산비는 일반적 특성, 식이요인, 코팅용품 사용, 미용제품 사용을 보정한 후 로지스틱 회귀분석을 사용하여 계산하였다.
결과
본 연구에서는 갑각류 주1회이상 섭취군은 주1회미만 섭취군에 비해 혈청 PFAS 고농도군에 속할 OR 값이 증가하였다. 남성에서는 PFHxS 2.15(95% confidence interval [CI]; 1.53-3.02), PFNA 1.23(95% CI; 1.07-1.41), PFDeA 1.42(95% CI; 1.17-1.74), 여성에서는 PFOA 1.48(95% CI; 1.19-1.84), PFOS 1.39(95% CI; 1.27-1.52), PFNA 1.70(95% CI; 1.29-2.26), PFDeA 1.43(95% CI; 1.32-1.54) 이었다.
결론
갑각류 섭취 횟수가 많을수록 혈청 PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, PFDeA) 농도가 증가하였다.

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Environment-wide association study of five per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFASs) exposure pathways in Korean adolescents from the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2018–2020)
Soonsu Shin, Dajeong Ham, Sanghyuk Bae
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Original Article

Association between exposure to violence, job stress and depressive symptoms among gig economy workers in Korea: Min-Seok Kim, Juyeon Oh, Juho Sim, Byung-Yoon Yun, Jin-Ha Yoon; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e43. Published online October 30, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e43

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF

Background

Gig workers, also known as platform workers, are independent workers who are not employed by any particular company. The number of gig economy workers has rapidly increased worldwide in the past decade. There is a dearth of occupational health studies among gig economy workers. We aimed to investigate the association between exposure to violence and job stress in gig economy workers and depressive symptoms.

Methods

A total of 955 individuals (521 gig workers and 434 general workers) participated in this study and variables were measured through self-report questionnaires. Depressive symptoms were evaluated by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 when the score was greater than or equal to 10 points. The odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was calculated using multivariable logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, working hours, education level, exposure to violence and job stress.

Results

19% of gig economy workers reported depressive symptoms, while only 11% of general workers reported the depressive symptoms. In association to depressive symptoms among gig economy workers, the mainly result of odds ratios for depressive symptoms were as follows: 1.81 for workers type, 3.53 for humiliating treatment, 2.65 for sexual harassment, 3.55 for less than three meals per day, 3.69 for feeling too tired to do housework after leaving work.

Conclusions

Gig economic workers are exposed to violence and job stress in the workplace more than general workers, and the proportion of workers reporting depressive symptoms is also high. These factors are associated to depressive symptoms. Furthermore, the gig workers associated between depressive symptoms and exposure to violence, job stress.

한국 긱경제 근로자에서 폭력 및 직무 스트레스 노출과 우울 증상관의 연관성
목적
긱경제 근로자 또는 플랫폼 근로자는 특정 회사에 고용되지 않은 독립적인 근로자들을 말한다. 긱경제는 그 규모가 커지고 있고, 종사하는 근로자들도 많아지고 있으나, 긱경제 노동자들의 산업 보건 연구가 부족한 실정이다. 우리는 긱경제 근로자에서 폭력 노출과 직무 스트레스에 노출되는 것이 우울 증상과 연관성이 있는지 조사하는 것을 목표로 했다.
방법
총 955명(긱 근로자 521명, 일반 근로자 434명)이 본 연구에 참여하였으며, 우울 증상은 PHQ-9(Patient Health Questionnaire-9) 점수가 10점 이상일 때로 평가하였다. 폭력 노출과 직무 스트레스는 자기보고식 설문지를 이용하여 측정하였다. 연령, 성별, 근무시간, 교육수준을 보정한 다변량 로지스틱 회귀분석을 이용하여 Odds Ratio, 95% Confidence Interval를 산출했다.
결과
긱 근로자의 19%가 우울 증상을 보고한 반면, 일반 근로자의 11%만이 우울 증상을 보고했습니다. 긱경제 근로자의 우울상과 관련하여 우울상 Odds ratio의 주요 결과는표3에서 ‘긱경제 근로자’ 1.89, ‘굴욕적 처우 경험’ 3.53, ‘성희롱 경험’ 2.65, ‘하루 세 끼 미만의 식사’ 3.55, ‘퇴근 후 집안일을 하기엔 너무 피곤함’ 3.69로 나타났다.
결론
긱경제 근로자는 일반 근로자에 비해 직장 내 폭력과 직무스트레스에 더 많이 노출되고, 우울 증상을 호소하는 근로자의 비율도 높다. 이러한 요인은 우울 증상과 관련이 있다. 더욱이, 긱경제 근로자들은 우울 증상과 폭력 노출, 직업 스트레스와 관련이 있다.

Citations

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Original Article

Association between lone work and self-rated health status: using the 5th Korean Working Conditions Survey: Eunseun Han, Ui-Jin Kim, Yongho Lee, Sanghyuk Lee, Seunghon Ham, Wanhyung Lee, Won-Jun Choi, Seong-Kyu Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e29. Published online July 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e29

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background

Lone workers are generally defined as individuals who work alone without supervision, including self-employed people. While lone workers are considered a vulnerable group in some countries, there is a lack of research on their health status in domestic studies. Globally, the number of lone workers has been increasing, and this trend has been further accelerated since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic with the rise of remote work.

Methods

The study analyzed data from 44,281 participants, excluding unpaid family workers, soldiers, and those with missing data. Lone workers were defined as individuals who reported having no colleagues with the same job at their current workplace. Self-rated health status was categorized as “good” or “poor.”

Results

This study found a statistically significant higher number of lone workers among women compare to men. The largest occupational category for lone workers was service and sales workers, followed by agriculture and fisheries workers. A majority of non-lone workers reported working 40 hours or less per week, while the majority of lone workers reported working 53 hours or more per week. In addition, lone workers had significantly poorer health status evaluations compared to non-lone workers (odds ratio: 1.297; 95% confidence interval: 1.165–1.444).

Conclusions

Further research is needed to investigate the causal relationship between lone work and health, using data collected after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Citations

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