Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Original Article

Occupational exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Korean adults: evaluation of urinary 1-hydroxypyrene, 2-naphthol, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, and 2-hydroxyfluorene using Second Korean National Environmental Health Survey data: Dong Hyun Hong, Jongwon Jung, Jeong Hun Jo, Dae Hwan Kim, Ji Young Ryu; Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e6. Published online March 24, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e6

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF PubReader ePub: Background
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are occupational and environmental pollutants generated by the incomplete combustion of organic matter. Exposure to PAHs can occur in various occupations. In this study, we compared PAH exposure levels among occupations based on 4 urinary PAH metabolites in a Korean adult population.
Methods
The evaluation of occupational exposure to PAHs was conducted using Second Korean National Environmental Health Survey data. The occupational groups were classified based on skill types. Four urinary PAH metabolites were used to evaluate PAH exposure: 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP), 2-naphthol (2-NAP), 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (1-OHPHE), and 2-hydroxyfluorene (2-OHFLU). The fraction exceeding the third quartile of urinary concentration for each PAH metabolite was assessed for each occupational group. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for exceeding the third quartile of urinary PAH metabolite concentration were calculated for each occupational group compared to the “business, administrative, clerical, financial, and insurance” group using multiple logistic regression analyses.
Results
The “guard and security” (OR: 2.949; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.300–6.691), “driving and transportation” (OR: 2.487; 95% CI: 1.418–4.364), “construction and mining” (OR: 2.683; 95% CI: 1.547–4.655), and “agriculture, forestry, and fisheries” (OR: 1.973; 95% CI: 1.220–3.191) groups had significantly higher ORs for 1-OHP compared to the reference group. No group showed significantly higher ORs than the reference group for 2-NAP. The groups with significantly higher ORs for 1-OHPHE than the reference group were “cooking and food service” (OR: 2.073; 95% CI: 1.208–3.556), “driving and transportation” (OR: 1.724; 95% CI: 1.059–2.808), and “printing, wood, and craft manufacturing” (OR: 2.255; 95% CI: 1.022–4.974). The OR for 2-OHFLU was significantly higher in the “printing, wood, and craft manufacturing” group (OR: 3.109; 95% CI: 1.335–7.241) than in the reference group.
Conclusions
The types and levels of PAH exposure differed among occupational groups in a Korean adult population.; 한국 성인의 다환 방향족 탄화수소에 대한 직업적 노출: 제 2기 국민환경보건기초조사 자료를 이용한 요중 1-하이드록시피렌, 2-나프톨, 1-하이드록시페난트렌 및 2-하이드록시플루오렌 평가
목적
다환 방향족 탄화수소(Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, PAHs)는 유기물의 불완전 연소로 인해 발생하는 직업 및 환경 오염 물질이다. PAHs에 대한 노출은 대표적으로 석탄 가스화 공정 등 특정 업무 및 직업과 관련하여 발생하는 것으로 알려져 있지만, 그 외 다양한 직업들에서도 노출이 일어날 수 있다. 본 연구는 제2기 국민환경보건기초조사(2012-2014) 자료의 4가지 요중 PAH 대사 산물들을 이용하여 한국 성인 인구에서 여러가지 직업들에서의 PAH 노출 수준을 비교하였다.
방법
제 2기 국민환경보건기초조사에 참여한 성인 남녀 6,478명을 대상으로 PAHs에 대한 직업적 노출을 평가하였다. 직업군은 직능 유형을 기준으로 분류하였다. PAHs 노출에 대한 평가를 위해 요중 PAH 대사산물인 1-하이드록시피렌, 2-나프톨, 1-하이드록시페난트렌, 그리고 2-하이드록시플루오렌을 사용하였다. 각 직업군에서 각각의 요중 PAH 대사산물 농도의 제 3사분위수를 초과하는 비율을 구하였다. 이후 로지스틱 회귀 분석을 사용하여 "비즈니스, 행정, 사무, 금융 및 보험" 그룹과 비교해 각 직업군에서 요중 PAH 대사산물 농도의 제 3사분위수를 초과하는 비율에 대한 보정된 교차비를 구하였다.
결과
1-하이드록시피렌의 경우, "경비 및 보안" (교차비: 2.949, 95% 신뢰구간: 1.300–6.691), "운전 및 운송" (교차비: 2.487, 95% 신뢰구간: 1.418–4.364), "건설 및 광업" (교차비: 2.683, 95% 신뢰구간: 1.547–4.655), 그리고 "농업, 임업 및 어업" (교차비: 1.973, 95% 신뢰구간: 1.220–3.191) 그룹에서 참조 그룹과 비교하여 유의하게 높은 교차비를 보였다. 2-나프톨의 경우, 참조 그룹보다 유의하게 높은 교차비를 보이는 직업군은 없었다. 1-하이드록시페난트렌의 경우, "요리 및 음식 서비스" (교차비: 2.073, 95% 신뢰구간: 1.208–3.556), "운전 및 운송" (교차비: 1.724, 95% 신뢰구간: 1.059-2.808), 그리고 "인쇄, 목재 및 공예품 제조"(OR: 2.255, 95% CI: 1.022–4.974) 그룹에서 참조그룹에 비해 유의하게 높은 교차비를 보였다. 2-하이드록시플루오렌의 경우, "인쇄, 목재 및 공예품 제조" (OR: 3.109, 95% CI: 1.335–7.241)그룹에서 참조 그룹에 비해 유의하게 높은 교차비를 보였다.
결론
한국 성인 인구에서 PAH 노출수준과 노출되는 PAH의 종류는 직업군에 따라 달랐으며, 그에 따른 추가적인 평가 및 보호조치가 필요하다.

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Original Article

Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and serum total IgE in the Korean adults: the Third Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2015–2017): Jeong Hun Jo, Dae Hwan Kim, Ji Young Ryu; Ann Occup Environ Med 2022;34:e43. Published online December 14, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2022.34.e43

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF PubReader ePub

Background

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have become common pollutants with industrial development. Although the effect of exposure to PAHs on allergic disease in humans has been evaluated, evidence of an association is sparse. The association between PAH exposure and serum total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels was evaluated in Korean adults.

Methods

In total, this study included 3,269 participants in the Third Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2015–2017). Four urinary PAH metabolites were used to assessed exposure to PAHs: 1-hydroxypyrene, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, 2-naphthol, and 2-hydroxyfluorene. The analyses were performed on 3 cutoff levels (100 IU/mL, 114 IU/mL, and 150 IU/mL) set as the total IgE elevation. Prevalence of total IgE elevation by PAH exposure group and general characteristics (age, sex, BMI, smoking, alcohol drinking, and occupation) were analyzed using the Rao–Scott χ² test. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for total IgE elevation by PAH exposure groups.

Results

Total IgE elevation differed significantly by age, sex, smoking status, alcohol drinking status, and occupation. For 2-hydroxyfluorene, the fourth quartile showed a significant association with IgE elevation compared to the first quartile in the analyses of cutoff-level 100 IU/mL (OR: 1.372, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.007–1.869) and 114 IU/mL (OR: 1.643, 95% CI: 1.167–2.312). In the analysis of cutoff-level 150 IU/mL, the adjusted ORs of the third and fourth quartile of 2-hydroxyfluorene were significantly higher than the first quartile (3rd quartile: OR: 1.478, 95% CI: 1.034–2.113; 4th quartile: OR: 1.715, 95% CI: 1.161–2.534). However, there were no significant positive associations for the other metabolites.

Conclusions

This study implied that PAHs exposure is associated with total IgE elevation in Korean adults. More research is needed to confirm the effect of exposure to PAHs on serum IgE and allergic diseases.

다환 방향족 탄화수소 노출과 혈중 총 면역글로불린 E (제3기 국민환경보건 기초조사 2015-2017)
목적
다환 방향족 탄화수소(Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, PAHs)는 화석 연료, 폐기물, 목재 등의 여러 유기물의 불완전 연소에 의해서 발생하는 환경 및 직업상 오염물질로서, 산업 발전으로 인해 생활 곳곳에서 노출이 가능한 오염물질이 되었다. PAHs노출과 알레르기 질환과의 관련성을 보여주는 연구 결과들이 있으나 부족한 실정이다. 본 연구에서는 제3기 국민환경보건기초조사(2015-2017) 자료를 이용하여 국내 성인에서 PAHs 노출과 알레르기 지표 중 하나인 혈중 총 면역글로불린 E(IgE)의 관련성을 평가하였다.
방법
국민환경보건 기초조사(2015 - 2017) 제3기에 참여한 성인 3269명을 대상으로 가중치를 적용하여 분석하였다. PAHs에 대한 노출에 대한 지표로 요중 1-hydroxypyrene, 2-naphthol, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, 2-hydroxyfluorene 농도를 이용하였고, 혈중 total IgE의 증가 여부는 100 IU/mL, 114 IU/mL, 150 IU/mL를 기준으로 설정하여 분석하였다. 요중 PAHs 대사체 농도는 사분위수 기준 네 그룹으로 나누어 분석에 이용하였다.
나이, 성별, BMI, 흡연 여부, 알코올 섭취 여부, 직업군 등 인구학적 요인에 따른 혈중 total IgE 증가 여부 및 각 대사체의 사분위수 그룹에 따른 혈중 total IgE 증가 여부를 카이제곱 검정을 이용하여 분석하였다. 로지스틱 회귀분석을 이용하여 요중 PAHs 대사체 농도 사분위수 그룹과 혈중 total IgE 농도 증가와의 관련성을 파악하고자 하였다.
결과
총 IgE 상승은 연령, 성별, 흡연 여부, 음주 여부, 직업에 따라 유의한 차이를 보였다.
나이, 성별, 흡연 여부, 알코올 섭취 여부, 직업군 등 요인들을 보정한 로지스틱 회귀분석에서는 2-hydroxyfluoren의 경우 IgE 증가를 100IU/mL 및 114IU/mL로 설정한 분석에서 4사분위수 그룹이 1사분위수 그룹과 비교하여 혈중 total IgE 증가에 대해 유의하게 높은 교차비를 보였다(100 IU/mL을 IgE 증가 기준으로 분석 시: OR 1.372, 95% CI 1.007-1.869; 114 IU/mL을 IgE 증가 기준으로 분석 시: OR 1.643, 95% CI 1.167-2.312). 혈중 total IgE의 증가를 150IU/mL로 설정한 분석에서는 2-hydroxyfluoren의 3사분위 그룹과 4분위수 그룹의 total IgE 증가에 대한 교차비가 1사분위수 그룹과 비교하여 유의하게 더 높았다(3사분위수 그룹: OR 1.478, 95% CI 1.034-2.113; 4사분위수그룹: OR 1.715, 95% CI 1.161-2.534). 그러나 다른 대사 산물들에 대한 분석에서는 유의한 연관성이 없었다.
결론
본 연구의 결과는 한국 성인의 PAHs 노출과 총 IgE 수준 사이에 연관성이 있음을 제시한다. PAHs 노출이 혈청 IgE와 알레르기 질환에 미치는 영향을 평가하기 위해서는 추가적인 연구가 더 필요할 것으로 보인다.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Association of mixed polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure with oxidative stress in Korean adults
Ji Young Ryu, Dong Hyun Hong
Scientific Reports.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

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Special Article

Approval status and characteristics of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among Korean workers in 2020: Eun-woo Cha, Sae-mi Jung, Il-ho Lee, Dae Hwan Kim, Eui Hyek Choi, In-ah Kim, Yong-kyu Kim, Kyung-joon Lee, Yang Won Kang, Ho-gil Kim, Young-ki Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2022;34:e31. Published online October 26, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2022.34.e31

Abstract Abstract in Korean PDF PubReader ePub

Background

This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) in occupational disease claims and identify patterns of WRMSDs for each body part by industry and occupation.

Methods

This study analyzed the raw data of occupational disease claims for musculoskeletal disorders deliberated by the Occupational Disease Decision Committee of the Korea Workers’ Compensation & Welfare Service in 2020. The data was classified into 6 body parts with the highest numbers of occupational disease cases by using the complete enumeration data on principal diagnoses and 4 types of subdiagnoses in the raw data. The characteristics and approval rates of WRMSDs by body part, industry and occupation were examined and summarized.

Results

A total of 13,015 occupational disease cases for WRMSDs were classified, and lumbar spinal (back) diseases accounted for the largest proportion of claimed diseases, followed by shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and neck diseases in a descending order. The occupations with the highest and second highest numbers of occupational disease cases by body part were found to be automobile assemblers and production-related elementary workers for the neck, school meal service workers and cooks for the back, construction frame mold carpenters and school meal service workers for the shoulder, elementary workers in mining and food service workers for the elbow, food service workers and automobile parts assemblers for the wrist, and ship welders and school meal service workers for the knee.

Conclusions

This study examined the characteristics and approval status of WRMSDs by body part and occupation. Based on the study results, management strategies for the prevention of WRMSDs should be established regarding occupations with a high risk of WRMSDs for each body part.

업무상 근골격계질환의 2020년 산업재해 승인 현황과 특성
목적
본 연구는 업무 관련 근골격계 질환(WMSD)의 특성과 신체 부위에 따른 업종 및 직종별 WMSD 승인율을 분석하기 위해 실시됐다.
방법
2020년 근로복지공단 업무상질병판정위원회에서 심의된 근골격계질환 신청건의 원자료를 활용하여 분석하였다. 원자료의 주상병과 네가지 부상병 정보 전수를 활용하여, 상병신청건수가 많은 6개의 신체부위로 구분하였다. 각 부위별로 업종 및 직종에 대하여 특성과 승인율을 정리 하였다.
결과
WMSD 신청건수는는 총 13015건이 분류되었고, 이중 요추질환이 가장많았고, 어깨, 팔, 손목, 무릎, 경추 순으로 이어졌다. 부위별로 신청건수가 많았던 직종으로 경추는 자동차조립, 제조관련단순종사원, 요추는 급식조리사, 조리사, 어깨는 건설형틀목공, 급식조리사, 팔은 광업단순종사원, 급식조리사, 손목은 급식조리사, 자동차부품조립, 무릎은 조선용접공, 급식조리사로 조사됐다.
결론
신체 부위별 직종에 따른 WMSD의 특성 및 승인율 등을 살펴보았다. 이러한 결과를 바탕으로 신체 부위별 고위험 직종에 대하여 WMSD 예방을 위한 관리 전략이 수립되어야 한다.

Citations

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Self-Esteem Trajectories After Occupational Injuries and Diseases and Their Relation to Changes in Subjective Health: Result From the Panel Study of Workers’ Compensation Insurance (PSWCI)
Seong-Uk Baek, Won-Tae Lee, Min-Seok Kim, Myeong-Hun Lim, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jong-Uk Won
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among workers in the automobile manufacturing industry in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Xiongda He, Bin Xiao, Junle Wu, Chunshuo Chen, Wankang Li, Maosheng Yan
BMC Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

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Original Article

The association between direct supervisor's behavior and employee presenteeism in Korean wage workers: findings from the fifth Korean Working Condition Survey: Sung Hee Lee, Joo Hyun Sung, Dae Hwan Kim, Chang Sun Sim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2021;33:e30. Published online September 24, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2021.33.e30

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Background

Presenteeism is a phenomenon in which employees go to work, but physical or mental health problems make it impossible for them to properly demonstrate their abilities, and productivity decreases accordingly. Recent studies have considered the behavior of direct supervisors to be an important factor in the pathogenesis of various health-related outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the association between the direct supervisor's behaviors and presenteeism among wage workers in South Korea.

Methods

A total of 25,798 participants from the fifth Korean Working Condition Survey conducted in 2017 were included in the analysis. The behaviors of direct supervisor were assessed by 6 questionnaire items. In this study, the distribution of the scores was categorized into 4 categories (very good, good, bad, and very bad). To assess presenteeism, the corresponding questionnaire item was used. χ² tests and multiple logistic regression analyses adjusted for general, occupational, and psychosocial factors were performed to determine the association between the behaviors of direct supervisor and presenteeism.

Results

Direct supervisor's behavior were significantly associated with presenteeism. The adjusted odds ratios (aORs) of presenteeism in the good, bad, and very bad groups were 1.297 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.153–1.458), 1.191 (95% CI: 0.941–1.507), and 1.604 (95% CI: 1.184–2.175), compared with the very good group. Associations between presenteeism and the behaviors of direct supervisor were significant in male workers, but not in female workers. For male workers, the aORs of presenteeism in the good, bad, very bad groups were 1.661 (95% CI: 1.425–1.936), 1.445 (95% CI: 1.053–1.982), 2.340 (95% CI: 1.569–3.491), respectively.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the behavior of a direct supervisor can influence the occurrence of presenteeism, particularly in men. The proper management of senior employee's behaviors is necessary to reduce the risk of presenteeism in the workplace.

Citations

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Association Between Sickness Presenteeism and Depressive Symptoms by Occupation and Employment Type During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Minkoo Kang, Won-Tae Lee, Byungyoon Yun, Jin-Ha Yoon
Safety and Health at Work.2024; 15(3): 338. CrossRef
Sickness Presenteeism among Employees Having Workplace Conflicts—Results from Pooled Analyses in Latvia
Svetlana Lakiša, Linda Matisāne, Inese Gobiņa, Hans Orru, Ivars Vanadziņš
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(17): 10525. CrossRef

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Research Article

The relationship between working hours and the intention to quit smoking in male office workers: data from the 7th Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016–2017): Eui Hyek Choi, Dae Hwan Kim, Ji Young Ryu; Ann Occup Environ Med 2021;33:e13. Published online May 4, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2021.33.e13

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Background

The intention to quit smoking is one of the most important factors in smoking cessation. Long working hours is also a constant issue, and many studies have shown an association between the working hours and diseases, including cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. This study evaluated the relationship between working hours and the intention to quit smoking among Korean male office workers, and blue collar workers for comparison.

Methods

This study was based on the Seventh Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016–2017). A total of 1,389 male workers were smokers, and then office workers and blue collar workers were selected. Logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) for the intention to quit smoking according to smoking-related characteristics and working hours after adjusting for age group, body mass index (kg/m²), marital status, household income (quartile), educational level, drinking, exercise, smoking-related characteristics (smoking initiation age, smoking amount, and attempt to quit smoking more than 1day in the past year) and working hours.

Results

The percentage of workers who had the intention to quit smoking in 6 months was higher in office workers (38.9% for office workers and 29.4% for blue collars, p = 0.017). Blue collar workers had higher percentages of workers who worked more than 52 hours per week (19.8% for office workers and 38.9% for blue collar workers, p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that working > 52 hours per week was significantly associated with a lower intention to quit smoking within 6 months among male office workers (OR = 0.30, 95% confidence interval = 0.14–0.66).

Conclusions

Working more than 52 hours per week was positively related with a lower intention to quit smoking among currently smoking male office workers. Further studies are needed considering more work-related variables such as job stress and physical load.

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Research Article

Relationship between triclosan exposure and thyroid hormones: the Second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014): Na-Young Ha, Dae Hwan Kim, Ji Young Ryu; Ann Occup Environ Med 2019;31:e22. Published online September 5, 2019; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2019.31.e22

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

Background

5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol (triclosan) is used as an antiseptic and is a potential endocrine-disrupting chemical that can affect thyroid hormone levels. This study evaluated the relationship between triclosan exposure and thyroid hormones.

Methods

Data from the second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014) were analyzed. Triclosan exposure was evaluated using urinary triclosan concentrations and classified into 2 groups: ‘below detection (< limit of detection [LOD])’ vs. ‘detected (≥ LOD).’ Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between triclosan exposure and the serum thyroid hormone concentrations, adjusting for age, body mass index, urinary creatinine, and smoking status.

Results

When grouped by sex, triclosan exposure was positively associated with the serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations in females with marginal significance (β = 0.066, p = 0.058). However, no significant association was identified between triclosan exposure and serum total triiodothyronine and thyroxine in both males and females, and TSH in males.

Conclusions

This study is the first human study to evaluate the relationship between triclosan exposure and serum thyroid hormone concentrations in the Korean population. There was suggestive positive association between triclosan exposure and the serum TSH in females. Further studies need to evaluate the relationship between long-term exposure to low-dose triclosan and thyroid hormones.

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Relationship between endocrine disrupting chemicals (phthalate metabolites, triclosan and bisphenols) and vitamin D in female subjects: An exploratory pilot study
Edwina Brennan, Alexandra E. Butler, Manjula Nandakumar, Kristie Thompson, Thozhukat Sathyapalan, Stephen L. Atkin
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Conceptualizing the Role of the Microbiome as a Mediator and Modifier in Environmental Health Studies: A Scoping Review of Studies of Triclosan and the Microbiome
Hannah E. Laue, Aislinn J. Gilmour, Valerie M. Tirado, Megan E. Romano
Current Environmental Health Reports.2024; 11(1): 30. CrossRef
Critical review on the environmental behaviors and toxicity of triclosan and its removal technologies
Yanhong Jiang, Liangying Liu, Biao Jin, Yi Liu, Xiaoliang Liang
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Triclosan and its alternatives, especially chlorhexidine, modulate macrophage immune response with distinct modes of action
Stefanie Raps, Laura Bahr, Isabel Karkossa, Manuela Rossol, Martin von Bergen, Kristin Schubert
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Glen McGee, Maximilien Génard-Walton, Paige L. Williams, T. I. M. Korevaar, Jorge E. Chavarro, John D. Meeker, Joseph M. Braun, Maarten A. Broeren, Jennifer B. Ford, Antonia M. Calafat, Irene Souter, Russ Hauser, Lidia Mínguez-Alarcón
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The Influence of Triclosan on the Thyroid Hormone System in Humans - A Systematic Review
Mai Homburg, Åse Krogh Rasmussen, Louise Ramhøj, Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
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Iva Kladnicka, Monika Bludovska, Iveta Plavinova, Ludek Muller, Dana Mullerova
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Jerikias Marumure, Zakio Makuvara, Richwell Alufasi, Lazarus Chapungu, Claudious Gufe
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Triclosan and Its Consequences on the Reproductive, Cardiovascular and Thyroid Levels
Ana C. Marques, Melissa Mariana, Elisa Cairrao
International Journal of Molecular Sciences.2022; 23(19): 11427. CrossRef
Effect of Maternal Triclosan Exposure on Neonatal Thyroid‐Stimulating Hormone Levels: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Elham Attarian, Karim Ebrahimpour, Mohammadreza Maracy, Seyede Shahrbanoo Daniali, Bahareh Shoshtari-Yeganeh, Malihe Moazeni, Afshin Ebrahimi, Roya Kelishadi, Gabriella Galluccio
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Evaluation of triclosan exposures on secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines from human immune cells
Wendy J. Wilburn, Sara Jamal, Farah Ismail, Dylan Brooks, Margaret Whalen
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Comprehensive insight into triclosan—from widespread occurrence to health outcomes
Maja Milanović, Larisa Đurić, Nataša Milošević, Nataša Milić
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Research Article

The effects of exposure to lead, cadmium and mercury on follicle-stimulating hormone levels in men and postmenopausal women: data from the Second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014): Tae-Woo Lee, Dae Hwan Kim, Ji Young Ryu; Ann Occup Environ Med 2019;31:e21. Published online August 28, 2019; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2019.31.e21

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

Background

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a gonadotropin secreted by the pituitary gland, is a representative secondary sex hormone and an important indicator of reproductive function. The effects of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury on humans have been studied, but reports on their effects on sex hormone levels are lacking. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between heavy metal exposure and FSH levels in Korean men and postmenopausal women.

Methods

A total of 4,689 adults (2,763 men and 1,926 postmenopausal women aged 50 years or over) who participated in the Second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014) were included. We compared differences in serum FSH levels by demographic characteristics using the t-test and analysis of variance. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between the blood levels of lead and mercury and the urine cadmium level, and serum FSH levels.

Results

On multiple linear regression analysis, lead exposure was positively associated with serum FSH concentrations in postmenopausal women (β = 2.929, p = 0.019). However, we found no significant association between serum FSH concentration and blood lead and mercury levels, or urine cadmium level, in men.

Conclusions

This study suggests that lead exposure can affect the FSH level in postmenopausal women. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of low-dose long-term exposure to heavy metals on sex hormones.

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Research Article

Relationship between residence characteristics and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure in housewives: second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014): Hyung-Gue Park, Na-Young Ha, Dae Hwan Kim, Jeong-Ho Kim, Chae-Kwan Lee, Kunhyung Kim, Ji Young Ryu; Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:23. Published online April 18, 2018; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0236-x

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

Background

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) produced by incomplete combustion have negative effects on human health due to their carcinogenicity and teratogenicity. Indoor sources of PAHs include tobacco smoke, heating sources, and cooking. This study evaluated the relationship between human PAH exposure and residence characteristics.

Method

This study was based on the second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014). Non-smoking housewives were included in the analyses (n = 1269). The concentrations of urinary PAH metabolites (2-naphthol, 2-hydroxyfluorene, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, and 1-hydroxypyrene) were adjusted by urine creatinine level. The geometric mean concentrations of urinary PAH metabolites by residential factors were examined. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between residential variables and PAH exposures.

Results

The adjusted geometric mean concentrations of urinary 2-hydroxyfluorene and 1-hydroxyphenanthrene were significantly higher in the group residing within 100 m of a major road (p < 0.05) than in those residing > 100 m from a major road. In logistic regression analyses, the odds ratio (OR) for exceeding the third quartile of urinary 1-hydroxypyrene concentration was significantly higher in the group using coal or wood fuel for residential heating than in the group using gas (OR = 2.745, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.295–5.819). The detached house group had a significantly higher OR for 1-hydroxyphenanthrene compared with the apartment group (OR = 1.515, 95% CI = 1.023–2.243).

Conclusion

Our study shows the evidence of associations between some urinary PAH metabolite levels (1-hydroxyphenanthrene and 1-hydroxypyrene) and residence characteristics. Additional studies are needed to clarify these associations.

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Yifeng Dai, Xijin Xu, Xia Huo, Marijke M. Faas
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Relationship between urinary metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and risk of papillary thyroid carcinoma and nodular goiter: A case-control study in non-occupational populations
Boying Liu, Yanyan Chen, Siyao Li, Yuanyuan Xu, Yi Wang
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Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon: environmental sources, associations with altered lung function and potential mechanisms
Li-Min Cao, Ge Mu, Wei-Hong Chen
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Mengchen Shen, Guijian Liu, Hao Yin, Li Zhou
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Association between urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and hypertension in the Korean population: data from the Second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014)
Tae-Woo Lee, Dae Hwan Kim, Ji Young Ryu
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Dong-Hee Koh, Ju-Hyun Park, Sang-Gil Lee, Hwan-Cheol Kim, Sangjun Choi, Hyejung Jung, Donguk Park
Annals of Work Exposures and Health.2020; 64(4): 445. CrossRef

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Review

Review of carcinogenicity of hexavalent chrome and proposal of revising approval standards for an occupational cancers in Korea: Jungwon Kim, Sangyun Seo, Yangho Kim, Dae Hwan Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:7. Published online January 31, 2018; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0215-2

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

Background

The objective of this study is to suggest revised recognition standards for occupational disease due to chromium (VI) by reflecting recent domestic and international research works and considering domestic exposure status with respect to target organs, exposure period, and cumulative exposure dose in relation to the chromium (VI)-induced occupational disease compensation.

Methods

In this study, the reports published by major international institutions such as World Health Organization (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) (2012), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) (2006), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) (2013), American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) (2004), National Toxicology Program (NTP) (2014), and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ASTDR) (2012) were reviewed and the recent research works searched by PubMed were summarized.

Results

Considering the recent research works and the domestic situation, only lung cancer is conserved in the legislative bill in relation to chromium (VI), and the exposure period is not included in the bill. Nasal and paranasal sinus cancer was excluded from the list of cancers that are compensated as the chromium (VI)- induced occupational disease, while lung cancer remains in the list. In the view of legislative unity, considering the fact that only the cancers having sufficient evidence are included in the conventional list of cancers compensated as occupational disease, nasal and paranasal sinus cancer having limited evidence were excluded from the list.

The exposure period was also removed from the legislative bill due to the insufficient evidence. Recent advices in connection with cumulative exposure dose were proposed, and other considerable points were provided with respect to individual occupational relevance.

Conclusions

It is suggested that the current recognition standard which is “Lung cancer or nasal and paranasal sinus cancer caused by exposure to chromium (VI) or compounds thereof (exposure for two years or longer), or nickel compounds” should be changed to “Lung cancer caused by exposure to chromium (VI) or compounds thereof, and lung cancer or nasal and paranasal sinus cancer caused by exposure to nickel compounds”.

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Research Article

Perception of and attitude toward ethical issues among Korean occupational physicians: Junghye Choi, Chunhui Suh, Jong-Tae Lee, Segyeong Lee, Chae-Kwan Lee, Gyeong-Jin Lee, Taekjoong Kim, Byung-Chul Son, Jeong-Ho Kim, Kunhyung Kim, Dae Hwan Kim, Ji Young Ryu; Ann Occup Environ Med 2017;29:23. Published online June 24, 2017; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-017-0182-z

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Background
Occupational physicians (OPs) have complex relationships with employees, employers, and the general public. OPs may have simultaneous obligations towards third parties, which can lead to variable conflicts of interests. Among the various studies of ethical issues related to OPs, few have focused on the Korean OPs. The aim of the present survey was to investigate the ethical contexts, the practical resolutions, and the ethical principles for the Korean OPs.
Methods
An email with a self-administered questionnaire was sent to members of the Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, comprising 150 specialists and 130 residents. The questionnaire was also distributed to 52 specialists and 46 residents who attended the annual meeting of the Korean Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics in October 2015, and to 240 specialists by uploading the questionnaire to the online community ‘oem-doctors’ in February 2016. The responses to each question (perception of general ethical conflicts, recognition of various ethical codes for OPs, core professional values in ethics of occupational medicine, and a mock case study) were compared between specialists and residents by the chi-squared test and Fisher’s exact test.
Results
Responses were received from 80 specialists and 71 residents. Most participants had experienced ethical conflicts at work and felt the need for systematic education and training. OPs suffered the most ethical conflicts in decisions regarding occupational health examination and evaluation for work relatedness. Over 60% of total participants were unaware of the ethical codes of other countries. Participants thought ‘consideration of worker’s health and safety’ (26.0%) and ‘neutrality’ (24.7%) as the prominent ethical values in professionality ofoccupational medicine. In mock cases, participants chose beneficence and justice for fitness for work and confidential information acquired while on duty, and beneficence and respect for autonomy in pre-placement examinations.
Conclusions
This study evaluated the current perception of and attitude toward ethical issues among the Korean OPs. These findings will facilitate the development of a code of ethics and the ethical decision-making program forthe Korean OPs.
Electronic supplementary material
The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40557-017-0182-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

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Research Article

Relationship between housing characteristics, lifestyle factors and phthalates exposure: the first Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2009–2011): Kyungyong Jung, Hyounho Oh, Ji Young Ryu, Dae Hwan Kim, Sangyoon Lee, Byung-Chul Son, Chae-Kwan Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2015;27:33. Published online December 23, 2015; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-015-0078-8

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International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2016; 13(7): 680. CrossRef

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Case Report

A case of fitness to work in a worker with COPD using the exercise stress test: Yewon Kim, Kyungyong Jung, Ji Young Ryu, Dae Hwan Kim, Sangyoon Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2015;27:26. Published online December 11, 2015; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-015-0074-z

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Background
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by persistent airflow limitation. Therefore, both work ability and workday length may be affected in individuals with this disease. We studied a worker with suspected COPD and assessed fitness to work using post-bronchodilator spirometry, symptom assessment scales, and the exercise stress test.
Case report
The patient was a 58-year-old man due to work as a field supervisor in the ship construction sector. He had a 40 pack-year smoking history and experienced occasional dyspnea when climbing stairs. He visited this hospital to receive cardiopulmonary function tests and to determine his ability to work. Post-bronchodilator spirometry revealed severe irreversible airway obstruction corresponding to a modified Medical Research Council grade of 2 on the dyspnea scale. His COPD Assessment Test score was 12, placing him in patient group D (high risk, more symptoms) based on the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease classification system. His maximum oxygen uptake (VO_2max) was determined to be 19.16 ml/kg/min, as measured by the exercise stress test, and his acceptable workload for 8 h of physical work was calculated to be 6.51 ml/kg/min. His work tasks required an oxygen demand of 6.89 ml/kg/min, which exceeded the acceptable workload calculated. Accordingly, he was advised to adjust the work tasks that were deemed inappropriate for his exercise capacity.
Conclusion
As COPD incidence is expected to rise, early COPD diagnosis and determination of fitness to work is becoming increasingly important. Performing the exercise stress test, to evaluate the functional capacity of workers with COPD, is considered an acceptable solution.

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Editorial

Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: Dongmug Kang, Young-Ki Kim, Eun-A Kim, Dae Hwan Kim, Inah Kim, Hyoung-Ryoul Kim, Kyoung-Bok Min, Kyunghee Jung-Choi, Sung-Soo Oh, Sang-Baek Koh; Ann Occup Environ Med 2014;26:14-14. Published online June 24, 2014; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/2052-4374-26-14

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Research Article

Prevalence of the Metabolic Syndrome among Korean Workers by Occupational Group: Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2010: Ji Young Ryu, Sukwoo Hong, Chang-Hyo Kim, Sangyoon Lee, Jeong-Ho Kim, Jong-Tae Lee, Dae Hwan Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2013;25:13-13. Published online August 5, 2013; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/2052-4374-25-13

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

Objectives

The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome has increased rapidly in South Korea over the past 10 years. However, the occurrence of the metabolic syndrome in workers grouped according to the specific type of work is not well understood in Korea. In this study, we assessed the differences in the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome by occupational group and evaluated the risk of the metabolic syndrome among occupational groups.

Methods

From the Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010), 3,303 employed participants were included in this study. The unadjusted and age-adjusted prevalences of the metabolic syndrome were estimated and multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted using the presence of the metabolic syndrome as a dependent variable, and adjusting for age, education level, household income, drinking behavior, smoking status, physical activity, work hours, and work scheduling pattern.

Results

Among male workers, non-manual workers had the greatest age-adjusted prevalence (26.4%, 95% CI: 22.3-30.5%) among the occupational groups. In a logistic regression analysis, male manual workers had a significantly lower odds ratio for the metabolic syndrome relative to non-manual workers (0.59, 95% CI: 0.41-0.85).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated differences in the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome by occupational group and identified the greatest risk for the metabolic syndrome in male non-manual workers.

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Original Article

Pulmonary Functions and Related Factors in Shipyard Workers: Mi Hee Park, Chun Hui Suh, Chae Gwan Lee, Byung Chul Son, Dae Hwan Kim, Jeong Ho Kim, Jong Tae Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(3):324-332. Published online September 30, 2011; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.3.324

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the factors which affect pulmonary function in shipyard workers in order to build a body of basic information that can be used to prevent and manage pulmonary disorders in the future.
METHODS
We studied the respiratory symptoms, smoking history, chest radiographies, and pulmonary functions of 793 workers associated with two shipyards from April 2009 to July 2009. The workers were subdivided into 3 groups by job type: welders, grinders, and machinist-managers. The data was analyzed according to job type and other possible impact factors.
RESULTS
Significant differences among job type were seen with dyspnea and coughing during working hours and in the morning. In pulmonary functions, there were significant differences in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), peak expiratory flow (PEF), and maximal mid-expiratory flow (MMEF) (except FEV1/FVC%) among job types. Grinders especially showed significantly lower figures in the indices of FEV1, FVC, and MMEF.
CONCLUSIONS
Pulmonary function was significantly lower in grinders. Grinders seem to be affected by exposure to a combination of dust particles (silica, lead, and manganese) and irritant gases in the workplace. These results suggested that workers and health officials should work together to adopt technical preventive measures, such as having well- ventilated work areas and appropriate respiratory protective devices.

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Ju-Hwan Choi, Jae-Hong Shin, Mi-Young Lee, In-Sung Chung
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2014;[Epub] CrossRef

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Original Article

Medical Professionalism of Occupational and Environmental Physicians in Korea: Seung Hwan Shin, Jong Tae Lee, Min Kim, Jeong Ho Kim, Dae Hwan Kim, Byung Chul Son, Chae Kwan Lee, Chun Huii Suh, Shin Ik Kang; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(2):203-212. Published online June 30, 2011; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.2.203

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
This study evaluated cognition, core values and attributes of medical professionalism in occupational and environmental physicians, and was conducted to have basic data for suggesting proper role models of occupational and environmental physicians.
METHODS
Perceptions of reality and the priority of professionalism virtues in occupational and environmental medicine were evaluated by using a self-administered questionnaire, completed by 109 occupational and environmental physicians in Korea. The physicians were divided into two sub-groups: the resident group and the board certified specialist group. There are 4 questions about perceptions of reality and survey respondents gave 5-scale scores to each of 10 professionalism virtues in the questionnaire. The statistical significance of the perception difference between two groups was given by a cross tabulation analysis. Priority difference between each 10 professionalism virtue between the two groups was analyzed through Student T-test by using the SPSS 17.0K program. Afterwards, the type of medical professionalism in occupational and environmental medicine was analyzed based on the results of the questionnaire.
RESULTS
This study provided us with the information that specialists had more optimistic views about reality of occupational and environmental medicine than residents. 10 virtues of medical professionalism were listed in the order of priority, highest to lowest. Occupational and environmental physicians valued 'technical competence', 'professional dominance', and 'morality', but 'altruism' had the lowest score.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated that the occupational and environmental physicians's type of medical professionalism didn't match any of the seven types of medical professionalism from Castellani & Hafferty, although 'empirical type', 'nostalgic type' were partially similar to the occupational and environmental physician's type of medical professionalism. This is assumed because the occupational and environmental medicine field is different from other clinical medicine in terms of the physician's role. Further studies and discussions are necessary for establishing a suitable model of medical professionalism for occupational and environmental physicians.

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Original Article

Cognition and Practice on Medical Information Protection of Iudustrial Health Care Manager of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises: Soo Jin Jeong, Min Kim, Chae Kwan Lee, Chang Hee Lee, Byung Chul Son, Dae Hwan Kim, Jeong Ho Kim, Jong Tae Lee, Goo Rak Chang, Ki Hun Hong, Chun Hui Suh; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(1):53-63. Published online March 31, 2011; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.1.53

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
This research aimed to know the actual condition and problems of medical information protection at a workplace with the target of industrial health care managers of small and medium-sized enterprises.
METHODS
A self-administered questionnaire was given to industrial health-care managers of 216 enterprises from March 15 to May 17, 2010. The questionnaire was produced by referring to the Act on Personal Information Protection of Public Institutions, etc. This research evaluated agreement of cognition and practice according to 10 items of medical information protection using kappa and cross-analysis of significant factors between cognition and practice of medical information protection and general characteristics.
RESULTS
Cognition about medical information protection appeared to be 85.4-97.1% and its practice appeared to be 44.1-95.3%, so practice was lower than cognition. In addition, the agreement of cognition and practice appeared significantly low (kappa 0.082-0.387). The practice of medical information protection tended to be lower when the managers were older and held a higher job title. Health examination results were being delivered only to workers except for an employer (94.2%), but there were many industrial health-care managers who felt discomfort about their work in group occupational health-care systems (58.1%).
CONCLUSIONS
The practice of protecting medical information by industrial health-care managers was clearly lower than the cognition. Therefore, introduction of educational programs about personal information protection and provision of an independent place for group occupational health care service is urgent. In addition, in order to use the health examination results conveniently in group occupational health services, an institutional complement is necessary.

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Original Article

Second-hand Smoke Exposure and Urine Cotinine Levels by Occupation in the Busan, Ulsan, Kyeongnam Provinces: So Ryong Lee, Soo Jin Jeong, Chun Hui Suh, Chae Kwan Lee, Chang Hee Lee, Byung Chul Son, Dae Hwan Kim, Jeong Ho Kim, Jong Tae Lee, Jin Heon Lee, Moon Young Hwang, Choong Hee Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(1):42-52. Published online March 31, 2011; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.1.42

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
Exposure to second-hand smoke varied by smoking rate in the workplace and no-smoking policies. The purpose of this study was to estimate the status of second-hand smoke exposure by occupation through urine cotinine analysis in Busan, Ulsan, and Kyeongnam provinces.
METHODS
Data was obtained from the National Institute of Environmental Research of Korea as 'The 2008 Korea National Survey for Environmental Pollutants in Human Body'. We selected 629 non-smokers who lived in Busan, Ulsan and Gyeongnam provinces. General and occupational characteristics were gathered using a structured questionnaire. Urine cotinine concentrations were analyzed by a gas chromatograph-mass selective detector. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Chi-square test, Student t-test and ANOVA.
RESULTS
The geometric mean (geometric standard deviation) of urine cotinine concentration was 17.11 (2.74) ng/ml. The urine cotinine concentration of the middle school graduate group (18.47 (2.86) ng/ml) was higher than the college graduate group (15.64 (2.60) ng/ml, p=0.212). Also, the cotinine concentration of current drinkers (18.98 (2.47) ng/ml) was higher than non-drinkers (16.15 (2.88) ng/ml, p=0.054). The proportion who smelled smoke was higher in workers (38.5%) than in non-workers (29.7%, p=0.02). Therefore, urine cotinine concentration was higher in workers (17.29 (2.66) ng/ml) than in non-workers (16.97 (2.81) ng/ml) but not at a statistically significant amount (p=0.826). In addition, cotinine concentration between the group who smelled smoke (20.45 (2.42) ng/ml) and the group who did not smelled smoke (15.53 (2.78) ng/ml) was significantly different (p=0.016) in workers but not in non-workers (17.08 (2.42) ng/ml vs 16.92 (2.98) ng/ml, p=0.942). According to the National Center for Health Statistics occupational categories in the US and the Korea Standard Classification of Occupations, the urine cotinine concentration of white collar workers such as technical workers and administrators, professional specialists, and managers was higher (18.01 (2.55) ng/ml) than that of blue collar workers such as plant and machine operators and assemblers, elementary occupations, and craft and related trades workers (15.36 (3.48) ng/ml).
CONCLUSIONS
The workplace is an important contributor to second-hand smoke exposure in Busan, Ulsan and Kyeongnam provinces. Unlike in advanced countries, where anti-smoking policies have been implemented, urine cotinine concentration in people in Busan, Ulsan and Kyeongnam provinces was higher in the white collar group than in the blue collar group. This result might be due to a higher indoor second-hand smoking rate of workplaces in these areas. Further studies are needed to evaluate the correlation between regional characteristics of industries, anti-smoking policies in the workplace, smoking rates and urine cotinine concentrations of workers.

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Kiwoong Ko, Min-Jung Kwon, Song-Hyun Yang, Chul-Jin Moon, Eun Hee Lee, Hee-Yeon Woo, Hyosoon Park
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Original Article

Lifestyle and Work related Factors Associated with Serum PFOA among Workers at Manufacturing Companies: Sang Hwan Jang, Chae Kwan Lee, Dae Hwan Kim, Kwon Bok Kim, Jin Hong Ahn, Hwi Dong Kim, Chang Hee Lee, Jeong Ho Kim, Jong Tae Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(3):233-244. Published online September 30, 2008; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.3.233

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
The objective of this study was to determine serum perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) concentrations and to investigate the relationship of lifestyle, health status and work-related factors among workers at manufacturing companies with possible occupational exposure to PFOA.
METHODS
The study subjects were 315 workers (male 203, female 112) of manufacturing companies with possible exposure to PFOA from August to December, 2007. A questionnaire was administered to investigate lifestyle and work-related factors. Serum PFOA concentrations were analyzed by LCMS/ MS, and liver function and total cholesterol were also tested.
RESULTS
Serum PFOA concentrations ranged from 1.0 to 40.9 ng/mL (mean 8.0 ng/mL). Serum PFOA concentrations increased with age. Male workers had higher PFOA concentration than female workers (male 9.0 ng/mL; female 6.3 ng/mL). According to stepwise multiple regression analysis, factors significantly associated with PFOA concentration were male, being older, higher total cholesterol, and lower body mass index. Adjusted for age and gender by logistic regression, dyeing and finishing textiles had significantly higher odds ratio (OR) of 6.16, and moulding patterns, moulds and industrial patterns (OR=4.84), sections for ships (OR=3.87), and plastics synthetic leather (OR=10.05) had marginally significantly high odds ratios.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated the factors affecting serum PFOA concentration of workers at manufacturing companies. Further study is needed to ensure the effect of occupational exposure on serum PFOA concentration.

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Hee-Young Kim, Seung-Kyu Kim, Dong-Mug Kang, Yong-Sik Hwang, Jeong-Eun Oh
Science of The Total Environment.2014; 470-471: 1390. CrossRef
Concentration of PFOA and PFOS in Whole Blood and Factors Controlling Their Exposure Among Koreans
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Original Article

The Actual Implementing Status of the Preplacement Medical Examination after the Annulment of the Preemployment Medical Examination: Chunhui Suh, Jong Tae Lee, Dae Hwan Kim, Byung Chul Son, Chang Hee Lee, Hui Dong Kim, Jin Hong Ahn; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(3):174-181. Published online September 30, 2008; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.3.174

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
We investigated the status of the preplacement medical examination after the revision of the industrial safety and health law on Oct. 7, 2005 by the Ministry of Labor.
METHODS
Preplacement medical certificates of 6,507 recruits issued by two hospitals in Busan, Kyeongnam Province from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2006 were reviewed. Telephone interviews were performed to the recruits with disease and self-reported questionnaires were administrated to health and safety personnel from May 1 to Sep. 30, 2007.
RESULTS
Interviews were conducted with 185(56.1%) recruits with disease, 51(27.4%) of whom were rejected for employment due to the preplacement medical certificate. The questionnaire survey for the health and safety personnel revealed that 39(22.9%) personnel were unaware of the annulment of the preemployment medical examination. Eighty(48.8%) of the health and safety personnel answered that they performed a preplacement medical examination after employment, and 63(37.3%) made a practical application of the workers' placement. The recruits with chronic conditions were refused employment: 20 (11.8%) due to hypertension, 21(12.4%) diabetes mellitus and 22(13.0%) hyperlipidemia. The recruits with work-related diseases were also refused employments: 76(44.4%) due to lumbar spine abnormality and 75(43.8%) hearing loss.
CONCLUSIONS
Despite the annulment of the pre-employment medical examination, a preplacement medical examination was often used to discriminate among healthy and diseased recruits. Employers must respect the law for the point of time of the preplacement medical examination and the payment of cost. The government should publicize the revision of the objectives of the law. We suggest that health professionals elucidate the job fitness through the development of the assessment tools and maintain the confidentiality of recruits.

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Original Article

Factors Associated with Occupational Injuries of Ship-building Supply Workers in Busan: Seung Hwan Shin, Dae Hwan Kim, Jin Hong Ahn, Hwi Dong Kim, Jeong Ho Kim, Hyun Man Kang, Jong Tae Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(1):15-24. Published online March 31, 2008; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.1.15

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to evaluate both personal and work-related factors associated with occupational injuries of ship-building supply workers in Busan, Korea.
METHODS
A self-administered, questionnaire survey, asking both personal and work-related factors associated with occupational injuries, was administered to 1,651 workers from 64 different ship-building supply companies in Busan, Korea. All occupational injuries had occurred within the previous 5 years. The workers were divided into three sub-groups: Group I, under 4 day-sick leave, Group II, 4 day-sick leave and over, and Group III, which consisted of both Groups I and II. The statistical significance of the factors associated with occupational injuries underwent cross tabulation analysis for each group. Afterwards, the relationships between the factors which had statistical significance and the occurrence of occupational injuries were analyzed through multiple logistic regression by using the SPSS 12.0 K program.
RESULTS
The prevalence of occupational injuries was 4.30% in Group II and 7.57% in Group III. The work activities which had the most frequent occupational injuries were 'Fit-up' and 'Welding', and 30.0% of injured workers were covered by workers' compensation in Group II. According to the multiple logistic regression analysis results, the factors which had statistical significance in occupational injury occurrence were education level above college (OR 2.78) and high level of fatigue (OR 2.18) in Group I, sleeping less than 5 hours per day (OR 3.47), high level of fatigue (OR 2.79) and working over 56 hours per week (OR 1.53) in Group II, and education level above college (OR 1.78), sleeping less than 5 hours per day (OR 2.98), poor sleep quality (OR 1.65) and high level of fatigue (OR 2.58) in Group III.
CONCLUSION
This study demonstrated that several factors of ship-building supply workers such as sleep hours, sleep quality, fatigue, working hours, and educational level exerted a statistical effect on the occurrence of occupational injuries. In association with occupational injuries occurrence, these factors need to be controlled by proper methods such as effective safety education, work condition modification, and life style management.

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Original Article

Gene Expression Analysis in Basal Ganglia of Manganese-Exposed Rat Based on cDNA Array: Chae Kwan Lee, Noh Sung Min, Deog Hwan Moon, Jeong Ho Kim, Byung Chul Son, Dae Hwan Kim, Chang Hee Lee, Hwi Dong Kim, Jung Won Kim, Jong Eun Kim, Jin Hong Ahn, Chae Un Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2005;17(4):352-364. Published online December 31, 2005; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2005.17.4.352

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the gene expression profile in basal ganglia of manganese-exposed rats based on cDNA array analysis.
METHODS
For cDNA array, 25 male Sprague-Dawley rats (250+/-25 g) were intraperitoneally injected with 25 mg/kg B.W./day of MnCl2 (0.3 ml) for 10 days. For dose-related gene expression analysis, rats were intraperitoneally injected with 0.2, 1.0, and 5.0 mg/kg B.W/day of MnCl2 for 10 days. Control rats were injected with an equal volume of saline. RNA samples were extracted from brain tissue and reversetranscribed in the presence of [alpha32P]-dATP. Membrane sets of the Atlas Rat 1.2 array II and Toxicology array 1.2 kit (Clontech, Palo Alto, CA) were hybridized with cDNA probe sets. Northern blot hybridization method was employed to assess the dose-related gene expression.
RESULTS
Fifty-two genes showed significant changes in expression of more than two-fold. Twentyeight were up-regulated and 24 were down-regulated in the manganese-exposed group compared to the control. Among the 52 genes, 28 genes including nuclear factor I-X1 (NF1-X1), neuroligin 2 and 3, mitochondrial stress-70 protein (MTHSP70), neurodegeneration-associated protein 1 (Neurodap1), multidrug resistance protein (MDR), and endoplasmic reticulum stress protein 72 (ERP72), were reported for the first time related to the manganese-induced neurotoxic-metabolism in the rat basal ganglia. According to the dose-related gene expression analyses, MTHSP70, Neurodap1 and ERP72 genes were up-regulated compared to the control even in the group exposed to low manganese dose (0.2 mg/kg B.W./day).
CONCLUSIONS
Twenty-eight genes detected for the first time in this study were closely related to the manganese-induced neurotoxic-metabolism in the rat basal ganglia and further study of these genes can give some more useful information about the manganese metabolism.

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Original Article

Effects of Toluene on the Expression of Placental PRL-GH Family Genes and Reproduction in the Rat: Byong Soo Choe, Chae Kwan Lee, Deog Hwan Moon, Byung Chul Son, Dae Hwan Kim, Chang Hee Lee, Hwi Dong Kim, Jung Won Kim, Jong Eun Kim, Chae Un Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2004;16(3):262-275. Published online September 30, 2004; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2004.16.3.262

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate the toxic effects of toluene on the placental functions and reproductionin the rat. In this study, the expression of placental prolactin-growth hormone (PRL-GH) and Pit-1 genes, the frequency of placental trophoblast cells, and the reproductive data were analyzed.
METHODS
The pregnancy of the Sprague-Dawley rats (250+/-25 g) was determined by verifying the presence of the copulatory plug or sperm in the vaginal smear and the day on which this was observed was defined as pregnancy day 0. The pregnant rats were divided into three groups. The control group was intraperitoneally (ip) injected with sesame oil, and the other two groups were given either 150 or 750 mg/kg BW/day of toluene resuspended in sesame oil during pregnancy days 7-11 and 16-20. The rats from the three experimental groups were sacrificed on pregnancy days 11 and 20, respectively. The mRNA levels of the PRL-GH, Pit-1a and b isotype genes were analyzed by Northern blot hybridization and Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively. The hormonal concentration was analyzed by Radioimmunoassay. The frequency of the placental trophoblast cells was determined by means of a histochemical study. Reproductive data, such as the placenta and infnat weight, pregnancy period and litter size were surveyed at pregnancy day 20 and after birth. Statistical analysis was carried out by means of the SAS program (version 8.1).
RESULTS
The mRNA levels of the PRL-GH family genes were reduced in a linear fashion by exposure to toluene. The mRNA levels of the Pit-1a and b isotype genes, which induce the expression of the PRL-GH family genes, were also reduced by exposure to toluene. The placental lactogen Iv and II concentrations in the rat placenta, fetus and maternal blood were also decreased by exposure to toluene. During the last stage of gestation, exposure to a high dose of toluene reduced the frequency of the spongiotrophoblast cells that secrete the PRL-GH hormones. Reproductive data such as the placenta and infant weight, and litter size were reduced, and the pregnancy period was extended in the toluene exposed group as compared with the control group.
CONCLUSIONS
Toluene disrupts the PRL-GH hormone metabolism in the rat placenta and this leads to reproductive disorder.

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Original Article

Effects of Cadmium on Placental Function and Reproduction in Rats: Jin Hong Ahn, Kwang Soo Ko, Chae Kwan Lee, Deog Hwan Moon, Byung Chul Son, Dae Hwan Kim, Chang Hee Lee, Hwi Dong Kim, Jung Won Kim, Jong Eun Kim, Jin Ho Chun, Chae Un Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2004;16(3):236-249. Published online September 30, 2004; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2004.16.3.236

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the toxic effects of cadmium on placental function and reproduction in rats. For this study, the mRNA levels of the placental prolactin-growth hormone (PRL-GH) gene family, placental trophoblast cell frequemcy and reproductive data were analyzed.
METHODS
Pregnant F344 Fisher rats (200 g+/-23 g) were intraperitoneally injected with 0, 0.5, and 5.0 mg/kg B.W/day of cadmium (CdCl2) dissolved in saline from days 7-11 or 16-20 of pregnancy, and were sacrificed at days 11 or 20, respectively. The mRNA levels were analyzed by Northern blot hybridization and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The hormone concentration was analyzed by radioimmunoassay and the frequemcy of the placental trophoblast cells was observed by histochemical study. Reproductive data were surveyed at day 20 of the pregnancy and after the births. Statistical analysis was carried out using the SAS program (version 8.1).
RESULTS
The mRNA levels of the PRL-GH gene family were reduced dose dependently by cadmium. The mRNA levels of Pit-1a and -b isotype genes were also reduced by cadmium. The hormone concentration of PL-Iv and -II was decreased by cadmium. During the second half of pregnancy (days 11-21), a high dose of cadmium exposure significantly reduced the frequency of spongiotrophoblast and trophoblast giant cells that secrete the PRL-GH hormones. In the last stage of pregnancy (day 20), a high dose of cadmium exposure induced the apoptosis of spon-giotrophoblast cells in the junctional zone of the placenta. Reproductive data such as placental and infant weight, number of live fetuses were decreased, and number of resorptions and dead fetuses, post-implantation loss were increased significantly in the cadmium exposed group compared with the control.
CONCLUSIONS
Cadmium disrupts the functions of the placenta and these effects leads to reproductive disorders in rats.

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Case Report

A Case of Lung Injury due to Acute Exposure to Oxides of Nitrogen: Jeong Ho Kim, Dae Hwan Kim, Byung Chul Son, Chang Hee Lee, Jung Won Kim, Doeg Hwan Moon, Chae Un Lee, Joo In Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2000;12(2):302-309. Published online June 30, 2000; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2000.12.2.302

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
Lung injuries due to exposure to nitrogen oxides can occur in various process in industry. We experienced a case of chemical pneumonitis induced by accidental inhalation of nitrogen oxides emitted from the bath in an acid dipping operation.
CASE
Dyspnea, cough and blood-tinged sputum production, cyanosis, and tachypnea occurred after exposure to oxides of nitrogen. There were bilateral diffuse ground glass opacities in simple chest radiography and high resolutional computed tomography, hypoxemia in arterial blood gas analysis, mixed ventilation defect and reduced diffusion capacity in spirometry. As an oxygen and supportive therapy, after hospitalization, was given, the patient recovered completely from the lung injury on the 8th day after admission. There was no evidence of delayed onset of bronchiolitis obliterance or pulmonary edema in a follow-up for about 6 months.
CONCLUSIONS
Acid dip operation require more efficient hooding and exhausting system for the prevention of lung injuries caused by inhalation of nitrogen oxides. Also health education for worker need.

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Original Article

CYP2E1 Genetic Polymorphism relating to Styrene Metabolism of Korean Workers: Chang Hee Lee, Jin Ho Chun, Jun Han Park, Dong Mug Kang, Dae Hwan Kim, Deog Hwan Moon, Chae Un Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(2):161-173. Published online June 30, 1999; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.2.161

Abstract PDF: The goal of this study is to observe the associations between the metabolic phenotype by personal exposure and urinary metabolites and genetic polymorphism of CYP2E1 which is known to be related with styrene metabolism. To complete this study, the author executed a battery of tests on 46 workers who were working at laminating department of fiberglass- reinforced plastics (FRP) industry located in Pusan and Kyungnam area during April to June 1998. Those were - (1) personal exposure assessment with organic vapour monitor and gas chromatography. (2) measurement of urinary metabolites - mandelic acid (MA) and phenylglyoxylic acid (PGA) - with high performance liquid chromatography (HIPLC), (3) CYP2E1 genotying with PCR and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) using Dra I and Rsa I, and (4) questionnaire survey for some individual characteristics. Study subjects were composed of 32 men and 14 women, and whose average age was 39.4 years, average tenure was 7.7 years. Each concentration expressed by geometric mean(range) was as follows; air styrene 15.6(3.1-81.0) ppm, urinary MA 187.8(36.8-1007.2) mg/g creatinine, PGA 232.8(46.8-1075.7) mg/g creatinine. Correlation coefficients between air styrene were MA 0.54, PGA 0.37, MA+PGA 0.54 (p < 0.05). The relative frequency of CYP2E1 mutant allele was 45.7%(Dra I 43.5%, lIsa 1 37.0%), and homozygous mutant type (M/M) was not observed. The value of (geometric mean of (air styrene/urinary metabolites)) x 1000 according to genotype was significantly higher in mutant type than wild type (p<0.05), as in case of MA, mutant type 106.4 and wild type 84.4, and in case of MA+PGA, mutant type 84.4 and wild type 55.6. The value of air styeneTLV-TWA/urinary metabolitesBEI was used as a cut-off value of classifying phenotype. That is, the value of air styeneTLV-TWA/urinary MABEI >or= 0.063 and air styreneTLV-TWA/urinary MA+PGABEI >or= 0.048 was classified as poor metabolizer, and, the value of air styreneTLV-TWA/urinary MABEI~ < 0.063 and air styreneThV~A/urinary MA+PGABEI < 0.048 was classified as extensive metabolizer. As the result, the frequency of poor metabolizer was higher in mutant type than wild type with no statistical significance (p > 0.05), as in case of MA, mutant type 66.7% and wild type 48.0%, and in case of MA+PGA, mutant type 81.0% and wild type 56.0%. These results suggests that CYP2E1 mutant allele has a tendency toward the poor metabolizer. This study has several limitations as small sample size, and no considerations on work intensity, alcohol habit, obesity, etc which can affect styrene metabolism. However, this study is of value because this is first study to propose the fundamental data about associations between exposure level, biological monitoring, and CYP2E1 genetic polymorphism in Korean workers dealing with pure styrene. To improve accuracy of the study, that means, to applicate the result of this study on the personal risk assessment of styrene workers, larger sample size and consideration for confounders are needed.

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Original Article

A Study on Health Hazards of Cold Exposed Workers: Ho Chu Park, Seol Mi Jung, Deog Hwan Moon, Jong Tae Lee, Dae Hwan Kim, Jung Ho Kim, Jae Il Choi, Yong Shik Hwang, Yong Hee Lee, Chae Un Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(1):80-94. Published online March 31, 1999; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.1.80

Abstract PDF

In order to evaluate the status of cold exposure and its health hazards of workers at cold storage workplaces and to provide basic data for effective health care, the author measured core temperature and also observed clinical symptoms and signs, past and present history, and general health examination data on 99 cold exposed workers for exposure group and 96 non-exposed workers for control group working at 2 food refrigerating companies in Pusan area from January 6, 1998 to February 24, 1998. The results were as follows : 1. There was statistically significant difference in water intake between the exposure and control group and increased urine volume, urine frequency in exposure group without statistically significant difference. 2. Past and present illness in exposure group were hypertension (18.2%), hepatopathy(8. 1%). gastro-intestinal disease(7. 1%). arthritis (4.0%), intervertebral disc herniation(4.0%). and so on, and hypertension, arthritis was statistically significant difference compared to control group. 3. Symptoms inexposure group were. fatigue(89.9%), headache (64.6%), drowsy(63.6%), neck stiffness(59.6%), excessive food intake (59.6%). general weakness(58.6%), hunger(58. 6%), numbness(54. 5%), and so on, and there was statistically significant difference between the exposure and control group except fatigue, drowsy. 4. As results of clinical test abnormality rate of the systolic, diastolic blood pressure and electrocardiogram were significantly higher in exposed group that control. 5. Core temperature in exposure group was statistically significantly lower than control group and the highest statistically significant inverse correlation with the working hours and working frequency of daily mean cold storage. As above results, the author suggested that the further studies should be conducted to evaluate the health status of workers about chronic health effects in cold workplaces and to establish effective health care methods for them.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Physiological Reaction to Work in Cold Microclimate
Alicja Bortkiewicz, Elżbieta Gadzicka, Wiesław Szymczak, Agata Szyjkowska, Wiesława Koszada-Włodarczyk, Teresa Makowiec-Dąbrowska
International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health.2006;[Epub] CrossRef
The Relationship between Cold Exposure and Hypertension
Joon‐Youn Kim, Kap‐Yeol Jung, Young‐Seoub Hong, Jung‐Il Kim, Tae‐Won Jang, Jung‐Man Kim
Journal of Occupational Health.2003; 45(5): 300. CrossRef

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Original Article

Effects of Toluene, Xylene and Trichloroethylene on the Regulation of GnRH, GnRH Receptor and Pit-1 Gene Expression in Male Rat Hypothalamus and Pituitary: Dae Hwan Kim, Hun Lee, Chae Kwan Lee, Dae Sung Kang, Jung Ho Kim, Jong Tae Lee, Jin Ho Chun, Chae Un Lee, No Suk Ki; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(2):267-281. Published online May 31, 1998; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.2.267

Abstract PDF: The workplace exposure of chemicals has steadily increased, therefore the concern for subsequent effect on reproductive outcome has been an important issue in occupational medicine. In previous studies, higher rates of spontaneous abortion, reduced fertility and menstrual disorder among women, and an impairment of sperm quantity and quality among men have been associated with a wide variety of chemical agents. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of toluene, xylene and trichloroethylene (TCE) injection on the mRNA levels of GnRH, GnRH receptor and Pit-1 genes in male rats hypothalamus and pituitary and the effects on the plasma levels of FSH, LH, prolactin and testosterone. Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into five groups of five each according to concentration of toluene, xylene and TCE. The rats were injected subcutaneously to 0, 50, 100, 200, 400 mg/kg body weight/day of toluene, xylene and TCE, respectively for 6 days. Rat brains were excised and hypothalamus and pituitary were separated. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and RNase protection assay (RPA) were used to evaluate the GnRH, GnRH receptor and Pit-1 mRNA levels. Plasma concentrations of FSH, LH, prolactin and testosterone were assayed by radioimulunoassay (RIA). The results were as follows; 1. GnRH, GnRH receptor and Pit-1 mRNA levels in toluene and xylene injected groups, and GnRH receptor mRNA levels in TCE injected group were lowered dose-dependently. Especially, GnRH receptor and Pit-1 mRNA levels in 200 mg/kg of toluene injected group, and GnRH, GnRH receptor and Pit-1 mRNA levels in 400 mg/kg of toluene injected group were significantly lowed than control group (p<0.05). GnRH receptor and Pit-1 mRNA levels in 400 mg/kg of xylene injected group, and GnRH receptor mRNA levels in 400 mg/kg of TCE injected group were significantly lower than control group (p<0.05). 2. The plasma levels of prolactin and testosterone in 400 mg/kg of toluene injected group, and LH in 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg of xylene injected group, and testosterone in 400 mg/kg of TCE injected group were significantly lower than control group (p<0.05). In conclusion, we speculated that toluene and xylene affected reproductive system secondarily through hypothalamus-pituitary axis, and TCE affected directly through steroidogenesis. And we recomended that further study for assessment of the reproductive toxiclty of mixed organic solvent exposures should be conducted.

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Original Article

Atmospheric toluene concentration and urinary hippuric acid concentration according to the time of shift: Tae Young Han, Jin Ho Chun, Sung Joon Kim, Sang Hwa Ohm, Dae Hwan Kim, Byung Chul Yoo, Chai Eon Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1993;5(2):205-214. Published online September 30, 1993; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1993.5.2.205

Abstract PDF: No abstract available.

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