ORIGINAL_ARTICLE
PERCEIVED STRESS AMONG MEDICAL AND LAW STUDENTS IN MANSOURA, EGYPT
Objective: this study aims to determine whether there is a difference in the perceived stress levels between medical and law students in Mansoura University, Egypt. Method: This is a comparative study between Medical and law students, conducted during October to December 2007. The sample consisted of 283 medical and 277 law students selected through the cluster sampling method. A self-reported questionnaire was used which covered four categories including 15 items of sources of stress. Perceived stress scale and Hospital anxiety and depression scale were used to measurestress, anxiety and depression. Results: Law students were more likely to cite personal,environmental and relationship categories as stressors. The top five stressors in medical students identified in this study were troubles with the instructors, excessive workload, problems with coursemates, close contact with serious illness and personal injury orillness. The high level of preceived stress was reported by 20.1% and 41.2% of medical and law students, respectively. Independent predictors of stress among students were anxiety, depression and number of stressors. Conclusions: Stressors and stress are frequent among medical and law students. Counseling and preventive mental healthservices should be an integral part of the routine clinical facilities caring for university students
https://ejom.journals.ekb.eg/article_665_40f5f8e754c66a5543d93797b3a7f2bc.pdf
2009-01-01
1
13
10.21608/ejom.2009.665
Medical students – Law students – perceived stress – Anxiety –Depression
El-Gilany
H.
1
Departments of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University
AUTHOR
El-Khawaga
G
2
Departments of Community Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University
AUTHOR
Amr
M.
3
Psychiatry ,Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University
AUTHOR
Awadalla
N.
4
Departments of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University
AUTHOR
ORIGINAL_ARTICLE
ROAD TRAFFIC INJURIES IN SAUDI ARABIA, AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE WORKING POPULATION
This study aimed at describing the problem of Road Traffic Injuries (RTIs) in Saudi Arabia and their impact on the working population in terms of reduced productivity.Data on road traffic injuries and deaths were collected for the period of 1997 to 2002 and compared to population census during the same period. Potential Productive Years of Life Lost (PPYLL) was calculated. The total number of deaths due to RTIs was 21905 deaths and the total PPYLL due to RTIs was 459820.81. In all age groups, the losses in males were 1.91 to 8.52 times greater than in females, the differences were statistically significant. Both males and females showed an increasing trend of PPYLL for 20 – 29 years, 30 – 39 years, and 10 – 19 years old age groups. The increasing trend was more impressive in males. PPYLL average was 50000 years annually in the productive years of life in years 1997 to 2002, with about 33 % increase in 2002. RTIs are a majorhealth problem affecting all age groups; working population are more vulnerable due to commuting. Losses in productive years are more prominent and serious in productive age groups.
https://ejom.journals.ekb.eg/article_666_dc0054a1f73e7a38d2bb6f90637a3c61.pdf
2009-01-01
15
24
10.21608/ejom.2009.666
missed
Elshinnawey
M.
1
Dept of Community and Occupational Medicine, Suez Canal University, Egypt
AUTHOR
Fiala
L.
2
Dept of Community and Occupational Medicine, Suez Canal University, Egypt
AUTHOR
Abbas
M.
3
Dept of Community and Occupational Medicine, Suez Canal University, Egypt
AUTHOR
Othman
N.
4
Dept. of Statistics, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
AUTHOR
ORIGINAL_ARTICLE
EFFECT OF EXERCISE ON VENTILATORY FUNCTION IN WELDERS
Objective: This study was conducted to clarify the effect of different types of exercises in improving ventilatory functions in welders. Methods: Sixty male welders, age rangedbetween 20-30 years, have been selected from Abu Al Yazid welding exhaust factory at 6th of October industrial area. Data of each case were collected from the medical examinationand Spirometric results to measure forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and maximum voluntary ventilation (MMV). Before the period of training the workers were classified randomly into three groups. First group was trained by arm exercise connected with breathing. Second group was trained by incentivespirometer. Third group was trained by both arm exercise and incentive spirometer. The ventilatory function test was performed to each subject pre and after two months of training to mark out the values of FVC, FEV1, and MVV. Results: Results showed that breathing exercise programs improve ventilatory functions (FVC, FEV1, MVV) aftertwo months of training. Conclusion: The study supports the importance of arm exercise connected with breathing and incentive spirometer as a method of breathing exercise in improving the ventilatory functions in welders.
https://ejom.journals.ekb.eg/article_667_64d9c9f044eb4ff0cfffd7f496fccc7a.pdf
2009-01-01
25
37
10.21608/ejom.2009.667
welding
incentive spirometer
arm exercise with breathing
ventilatory function test
El Batanony
M.
1
Department of Industrial Medicine and Occupational Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
AUTHOR
Salem
Y.
2
Fitness and Rehabilitation unit, Cairo University
AUTHOR
El-Nahas
E.
3
Cairo University Hospitals
AUTHOR
ORIGINAL_ARTICLE
NECK – UPPER EXTREMITY MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG WORKERS IN EGYPTIAN TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY AT MANSOURA CITY
The aim of this work was to study the prevalence of neck- upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), mainly carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), among video display terminal(VDT) users and to determine the association between CTS and occupational physical and psychosocial risk factors. A comparative cross- sectional study was conductedupon (60) VDT users (at risk group) and a matched control group composed of (35) non-VDT users. The population studied was subjected to a structured questionnaire, clinical examination, and investigation in the form of electrophysiological studies and of neck X- ray. There was no statistically significant difference in the prevalenceof neck -upper extremity MSD during the past year between the two groups. The prevalence of CTS among the VDT users was 3.3% which was similar to that found in other studies. The mean age of CTS cases (58±1.4years) was statistically significantly higher than the symptom- free VDT users (45.8±4.6years). The physical work stressorsand psychosocial factors were more common among CTS cases compared to non-cases, however, the difference was not statistically significant.
https://ejom.journals.ekb.eg/article_668_f0fda80e8bd3fda67812cbedcfd4b016.pdf
2009-01-01
39
54
10.21608/ejom.2009.668
missed
El-Bestar
F.
1
Community Medicine Department
AUTHOR
Khashaba
O.
2
Community Medicine Department
AUTHOR
EL-Mitwalli
A.
3
Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University
AUTHOR
ORIGINAL_ARTICLE
PREVALENCE OF MUSCULOSKELETAL COMPLAINTS AMONG DENTISTS IN SOME EGYPTIAN CITIES
Background: Musculoskeletal complaints represent a significant occupational health issue in dentistry. In Egypt , data about the prevalence and risk factors of this problem are little. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints among dentists in some Egyptian cities ,evaluate the influence of personalcharacteristics, physical and psychological risk factors at work and health status on the occurrence of MSK complaints and to detect the association between MSK complaints and other contributing factors in the development of sickness absence among dentists. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to a random sample of 350 dentists in 3 cities of Egypt (Cairo , Al-mehalla El-kobra and El-mansoura).The questionnaire involved information on the respondent’s individual characteristics, job history, physical and psychosocial risk factors at work, general health status, and theoccurrence of musculoskeletal complaints.Results: Occupational neck and low-back pain were the most prevalent MSK complaintsamong dentists in the past 12 months in Egypt (75.1% and 58.5%, respectively). On the other hand low-back pain was the most prevalent chronic MSK complaints (11.4%) followed by chronic neck pain (7.4%). The occurrence of MSK pain was associated with at least one work- related physical load. Especially important was awkwardposture followed by improper workplace ergonomics, prolonged static posture, and repetitive movements .High job demands were associated with shoulder and hand/wrist complaints (OR= 2.26 and 2.17, respectively) . In this study, 27.4% of the respondents reported sickness absence . Chronic low-back pain was the only complaint thatincreased the risk of sickness absence (OR= 4.83). BMI >30, age > 40 years, perceived moderate general health, need for recovery and basic education were significant contributing factors for sickness absence. Conclusions: MSK complaints are a significant occupational health problem among dentists in some Egyptian cities. Interaction of physical load, psychosocial load, general health conditions, and personal criteria in developing the MSK pain require integratedpreventive strategies to minimize their impacts.
https://ejom.journals.ekb.eg/article_669_2138d4759084409ddbac5896458962a7.pdf
2009-01-01
55
71
10.21608/ejom.2009.669
Dentists – MSK pain – sickness absence
Hegazy
A.
1
Department of Community and Industrial Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University
AUTHOR
Awadalla
J.
2
Department of Community and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University
AUTHOR
Shenouda
S.
3
Department of Community and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University
AUTHOR
ORIGINAL_ARTICLE
ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS AMONG BUS DRIVERS
Background: Every day thousands of people are killed or injured on our roads, leaving behind shattered families and communities. Current efforts to address road safety are incomparable to the growing human suffering. One of the most important risk factors for road traffic injuries, is drug abuse. Objectives: Our research team was assigned by oneof the largest factories in Egypt to address this problem after recording several accidents during 2007 year, and to determine the role of drugs as a causal factor in traffic crashes. Methods: All the bus drivers employed in this factory were enrolled in this study. A group of referents (n=20) were randomly taken from workers employed in the samefactory. Urine samples were collected in the presence of one of our paramedics. Drugs screened were the major drugs of abuse such as Cannabinoids (marijuana, hashish), Benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium) and Barbiturates. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was conducted for opiates (morphine, codeine), amphetamines, cannabinoids, benzodiazepines and cocaine. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis (GCMS) was used for estimation of antidepressants, methadone, other analgesics and a number of anticonvulsants, benzodiazepines.Results: Thirty two specimens were analyzed. Metabolites of cannabis were the most commonly detected drugs and were found in 7 cases (21.8%), followed by benzodiazepines in 2 cases (6.3%) and opiates in 2 cases (6.3%). Thirteen Drivers (41.9%) had at least one accident per year. Also it was found that the incidence of car accidents is higher among younger age groups. There is a statistically significant positive association between smoking and drug abuse. Statistically significant positivecorrelation was demonstrated between experiencing abnormal psychological behaviours and positive drug abuse. Conclusion: Drug usage found in the studied group of drivers was disturbingly high. The introduction of further initiatives to decrease the prevalence of drug use in motor vehicle drivers is required; however, a follow-up study is needed.The magnitude of this problem has to be studied on a large scale. We recommend preemployment and periodic drug screening for all professional car drivers for safer work practice. Random urine screening for drugs, should also be carried out specially for those who drive on highways.
https://ejom.journals.ekb.eg/article_670_89ee5a8c6dba26c8dd67a9e60bc753bd.pdf
2009-01-01
73
84
10.21608/ejom.2009.670
missed
El Safty
A.
1
Department of Industrial Medicine and Occupational Diseases Faculty of Medicine,Cairo University
AUTHOR
Samir
A.
2
Department of Industrial Medicine and Occupational Diseases Faculty of Medicine,Cairo University
AUTHOR
Fayek
E.
3
NECTR ,Faculty of Medicine,Cairo University
AUTHOR
Shaker
D.
4
Department of Industrial Medicine and Occupational Diseases Faculty of Medicine,Cairo University
AUTHOR
ORIGINAL_ARTICLE
PERIPHERAL NERVE DYSFUNCTION AMONG WORKERS WITH LONG-TERM OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO ORGANOPHOSPHATE PESTICIDES.
A cross-sectional study was carried out to assess cholinesterase activity, study the work practices and investigate the prevalence of peripheral nerve dysfunction among workers with long-term exposure to Organophosphate pesticides (OP). The study was carried out on 36 Organophosphate sprayers with long-term exposure to Organophosphate and20 controls unexposed to pesticides, from Dekernes, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt. All participant were submitted to general medical examination, neurological evaluation,nerve conduction study and electromyography. Plasma cholinesterase (AChE) level was estimated for both OP sprayers and the controls. Most of the OP sprayershad practiced pesticide application with improper personal hygiene. OP sprayers had a statistically significant lower plasma AChE mean level (1548.9 ± 801.7 mU/ ml) compared to the controls (6751.7 ± 990.8 mU/ml). The study reported a higher prevalence of peripheral neuropathies among OP sprayers (38.9 %) in comparison tothe controls (5.0%) (P<0.01). However, most of the diagnosed neuropathies among the OP sprayers were subclinical neuropathies (78.6%) and possible neuropathies (21.4%).In conclusion, long-term occupational exposure to OP, was associated with subclinical and possible neuropathies, but not confirmed neuropathies .These results may reflectan early stage of OP toxic effects on the peripheral nerves among Organophosphate sprayers due to chronic exposure.
https://ejom.journals.ekb.eg/article_671_cf2d3e2662ee91c41b6a15493ad96487.pdf
2009-01-01
85
102
10.21608/ejom.2009.671
Organophosphate
Neuropathy
Pesticides
El-Helaly
ME.
1
Department of Community Medicine
AUTHOR
Hazem
M.
2
Department of Neurology
AUTHOR
Mosad
SM.
3
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
AUTHOR
El- Biomy
AA.
4
Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine. Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
AUTHOR
ORIGINAL_ARTICLE
RELATION BETWEEN ANEMIA AND BLOOD LEVELS OF LEAD, COPPER, ZINC AND IRON AMON CHILDREN
Background: Anemia is a wide health problem among infants and children in many parts of the world, and is often associated with decreased some trace elements (iron, zinc, copper) and increased heavy metals as lead. Lead plumbing has contaminated drinking water for centuries and has contributed to elevated blood lead concentrationsin children.Objectives: This study was done to determine the association of blood lead level (BLL) above 10μg ⁄ dl to the increased risk of anemia of varying severity. It also aimed at investigating the relationship between anemia and the changes in - blood iron, zinc and copper levels.Measurement of lead level in drinking water was also considered being a known -source of exposure to lead.Subjects and methods: The study is a cross-sectional performed on 60 children fromthe pediatric clinic in Al-Zhraa University hospital and special Pediatric clinic in a rural area. Venous blood samples were taken from the studied population for estimation of hematological parameters as well as iron and ferritin levels. The concentration of zinc, copper, and lead was measured in the serum using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer.According to the level of hemoglobin, the studied population was divided into an anemic and a control group at a level more than 11g/dl .The anemic group was further classified into mild (Hb level 10-10.9 g ⁄dl ), moderate (Hb level 8-9.9 g ⁄dl) and severe (Hb level< 8g ∕dl) anemia. The studied subjects were also categorized into low (>10 μg/dl) and high (≥10 μg/dl) blood lead level groups.Results: Approximately 63.33% of the children had blood lead level more than and equal to 10μg/dl while only 36.67% of them had blood lead level less than 10μg/dl. At the blood lead level range of 10-20 μg/dl, significant association was obtained for mild and severe anemia. In children with anemia, the level of iron and ferritin were found to be significantly lower than those of the control groups (p value <0.001). However, otherelements (zinc and copper) did not show any statistically significant difference between the anemic and the control groups. Environmental assessment of the lead level in drinking water revealed the presence of levels higher than the permissible limit determined by the World Health Organization (WHO).Conclusion: Elevation of Lead level in drinking water might be one of the causes behind increased BLL in children with anemia. Active steps should therefore be takentowards the control of lead pollution thus reducing the prevalence of anemia among children.
https://ejom.journals.ekb.eg/article_672_cd9565003501b9ca806adfdd916436f8.pdf
2009-01-01
103
117
10.21608/ejom.2009.672
Lead
copper
zinc
iron
children
Anemia
Hegazy
AA
1
Department of Pediatric Medicine
AUTHOR
Morsy
A.
2
Department of Pediatric Medicine
AUTHOR
Abd Elsalam
M.
3
Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls,Al-Azhar Univerisity
AUTHOR
RAM
S.
4
Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls,Al-Azhar Univerisity
AUTHOR
Zaher
MM.
5
Department of Community and Occupational Medicine,**Department of Pediatric Medicine
AUTHOR