Search Results (254)

Purpose: Smoking is a major preventable cause of illness and death. Quitting smoking can reduce related health complications. Numerous factors, including age, socioeconomic status, smoking habits, and availability of support, influence smoking cessation success. Despite anti-smoking measures and smoking cessation clinics in Saudi Arabia, smoking-related deaths are increasing. This study aimed to identify factors influencing successful smoking cessation among Saudi adults and examine the relationship between cessation methods and success rates. Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey targeting Saudi adults who had attempted to quit smoking of all types, whether traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, shisha, or others. Success was defined as quitting for at least six months. The data collected included sociodemographic details, smoking history, and experiences with cessation. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with successful cessation. Results: Of 364 participants, 18.4% were successful quitters, with a mean age of 34.94. Occupation was a key predictor; freelance workers had significantly higher odds of unsuccessful quitting (OR = 12.96, 95% CI: 2.08–80.79, p = 0.006). Those who continued smoking despite illness were less likely to quit successfully (OR = 2.33, 95% CI: 1.16–4.68, p = 0.018). Early initiation of smoking also negatively impacted cessation success (OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.03–1.17, p = 0.006). Successful quitters reported fewer adverse symptoms during their attempts (p = 0.018) and employed behavioral strategies, such as disposing of tobacco products (p < 0.001), avoiding smoking triggers (p = 0.002), and engaging in exercise (p < 0.001). Confidence in quitting significantly contributed to success (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study highlights the role of individual, social, and environmental factors in smoking cessation. Tailored interventions that address socioeconomic, psychological, and lifestyle factors are crucial for enhancing cessation success among Saudi adults. Full article

Indoors, the infection risk of diseases transmitted through the airborne route is estimated from indoor carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels. However, the approaches to assess this risk do not account for the airborne concentration of pathogens, among other limitations. In this study, we analyzed the relationship between airborne SARS-CoV-2 levels and environmental parameters. Bioaerosols were sampled (n = 40) in hospital corridors of two wards differing in the COVID-19 severity of the admitted patients. SARS-CoV-2 levels were quantified using droplet digital PCR. SARS-CoV-2 was detected in 60% of the total air samples. The ward where the mildly ill patients were admitted had a higher occupancy, transit of people in the corridor, and CO₂ levels, but there were no significant differences in SARS-CoV-2 detection between wards. The mean CO₂ concentration in the positive samples was 569 ± 35.6 ppm. Considering all samples, the CO₂ levels in the corridor were positively correlated with patient door openings but inversely correlated with SARS-CoV-2 levels. In conclusion, airborne SARS-CoV-2 can be detected indoors with optimal ventilation, and its levels do not scale with CO₂ concentration in hospital corridors. Therefore, CO₂ assessment should not be interpreted as a surrogate of airborne viral presence in all indoor spaces. Full article

Ensuring employee safety is a top priority for every enterprise, and it is especially critical in high-risk industries like coal mining. To achieve this goal, it is essential to focus efforts on identifying existing hazards and thoroughly assessing the associated risks. Accurate identification and detailed characterization of occupational hazards play a pivotal role in the occupational risk assessment process, providing the foundation for effective safety strategies. This article presents an analysis of the process of identifying occupational hazards in hard coal mining, based on applicable legal regulations and a review of the relevant literature. The analysis reveals, on the one hand, a diversity of approaches to hazard classification, and on the other, a limited use of the characteristic features of hazards in classification processes. The findings of this review form the basis for proposing a systematic classification of occupational hazards in hard coal mining, taking into account the specific features of hazards in relation to their sources and potential consequences. The proposed classification not only categorizes hazards but also describes the specifics of hazard sources, such as environmental conditions, machinery, chemicals, and human factors, as well as the possible outcomes of these hazards, including physical injury, health impacts, and even fatalities. The aim of this article is to present a proposed classification of occupational hazards in hard coal mining and to provide a detailed characterization of these hazards based on the description of their sources and potential consequences. The proposed approach, grounded in the identification of characteristic features of hazards, facilitates the effective selection of preventive measures that can be implemented to reduce risk and improve workplace safety. Due to the presence of the full spectrum of natural hazards in Polish hard coal mining, the analysis draws on available statistical data, focusing on those hazards that contribute most significantly to fatal accidents and serious injuries. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the importance of a structured and systematic approach to identifying and assessing occupational hazards in the coal mining industry. By drawing on legal and literature-based insights, it aims to contribute to the development of more effective safety practices that protect workers and minimize the occurrence of workplace accidents and illnesses. Full article

The Brazilian population in the United States is growing, and many Brazilian workers are employed in settings that may lack occupational health and safety (OHS) protections. In this study, we examined two domains of OHS (measured by the Occupational Health and Safety Vulnerability Survey), namely, Workplace Hazards (potential dangers that may result in injury or illness) and Workplace Vulnerability (inadequate occupational health and safety resources), and described health and demographic characteristics associated with these conditions. Eligible participants were women aged 18 and over, born in Brazil, currently residing in the United States, and employed. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between July and August 2020. Recruitment occurred through community partnerships and social media. Multivariable models among n = 191 women revealed that greater exposure to Workplace Hazards was associated with employment in private household settings, including childcare and housecleaning (p < 0.001). The association between Workplace Vulnerability and jobs in private household services approached statistical significance (p = 0.07). Both Workplace Hazards and Workplace Vulnerability were associated with lower incomes and educational attainment, as well as having public insurance. Our findings suggest the need for stronger OHS protections and policies, particularly among those working in private household services, to ensure safer working conditions for Brazilian immigrant women. Full article

Teachers with mental illness are vulnerable to work-related triggers that can lead to relapse, affecting their mental health and ability to recover, stay employed, and deliver quality education. This empirical study explored such triggers among public school teachers in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Using Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, a qualitative phenomenological design was adopted. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 14 participants that were purposively selected across four hospitals. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Tesch’s eight-step open-coding method. Findings revealed being gossiped about by colleagues, excessive workload, limited leadership and parental support, classroom management challenges, high performance expectations without support, and inadequate teacher mental health policies in schools. These triggers can lead to frequent absenteeism and poor teaching outcomes. They will further increase the risk of medication resistance and long-term cognitive decline due to progressive structural brain damage as a result of multiple relapses. The study highlights the urgent need for multi-stakeholder collaboration, including clinicians, academic institutions, union representatives, and the Department of Basic Education, to co-develop effective, context-sensitive strategies to mitigate work-related triggers of mental illness relapse. These strategies are not only essential for enabling long-term workforce participation but also advancing sustainable mental health and well-being. Full article

Community-based serosurveillance for emerging zoonotic viruses can provide a powerful and cost-effective measurement of cryptic spillovers. Betacoronaviruses, including SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV, are known to infect bats and can cause severe respiratory illness in humans, yet remain under-surveyed in high-risk populations. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of betacoronaviruses in an occupational cohort in contact with bats before and after the emergence of SARS-CoV-2. Serum samples from pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic were screened using antigen-based multiplex microsphere immunoassays (MMIAs) and a multiplex surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT). Pre-pandemic samples showed no SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, while post-pandemic samples from vaccinated participants displayed binding and neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and a related bat CoV. Furthermore, one participant (1/237, 0.43%) had persistent antibodies against MERS-CoV in 2017, 2018 and 2021 but was seronegative in 2023, despite reporting no history of traveling abroad or severe pneumonia. The observed sustained antibody levels indicate a possible exposure to MERS-CoV or a MERS-CoV-like virus, although the etiology and clinical relevance of this finding remains unclear. Ongoing surveillance in high-risk populations remains crucial for understanding virus epidemiology and mitigating zoonotic transmission risk. Full article

Background/Objectives: One common musculoskeletal disorder seriously compromising quality of life and burdening healthcare systems is lumbar disk herniation (LDH). LDH affects quality of life, healthcare costs, and occupational productivity, and it is expected to affect 40% of the population, mostly between 30 and 50 years of age. Methods: Over three years, this research assessed treatment results and the effect of comorbidities in a sample of 3074 individuals. Results: Surgical treatments—especially microdiscectomy—have a high success rate; over 90% of patients said their pain and functioning six months after surgery had improved significantly. Comparatively, conservative treatment approaches—physical therapy and epidural steroid injections—showed about 60% success in 70% of patients, indicating a clear need for early surgical assessment since 25% of originally conservatively managed patients needed surgery within one year. Significantly affecting treatment success are demographic variables; patients with preoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores above 50 saw a 40-point improvement post-surgery compared to a 20-point gain for those following conservative therapy. High comorbidity rates—including obesity (mean of 148.33) and cardiovascular illnesses (mean of 530.33)—that are associated with extended recovery durations and complications were also seen in this research. Conclusions: Our results support a customized treatment plan, stressing the need of integrating thorough rehabilitation plans with prompt surgical interventions to maximize patient outcomes. This study emphasizes the need for a patient-centered treatment paradigm in controlling LDH, thereby trying to improve recovery and lower the healthcare load. Full article

The relationship between the global climate crisis, which is associated with environmental risks, and occupational hygiene has not been extensively studied. This study develops a framework for identifying how climate change and the climate crisis could impact the workplace environment, workers, and occupational morbidity, mortality, and injury. A framework is used in this paper that is based on a review of the scientific literature published from 2014 to 2024, addressing climate risks, their interaction with occupational hazards, and their effects on the workforce. Eight categories of climate-related hazards are identified: increasingly high temperatures, dust and air pollution, sun and cosmic ultraviolet exposure, pandemics and infectious diseases, diseases transmitted by insects and changes in ecosystems, industrial occupational diseases, changes and crises in the built environment, and extreme weather events. Policies need to consider the gaps in the possibility of interactions between known hazards and new conditions and the productivity of workers, especially those who are most at risk of heat-related illnesses. Full article

Occupational therapy (OT) is a client-centered health profession focused on enhancing individuals’ ability to perform meaningful activities and daily tasks, particularly for those recovering from injury, illness, or disability. As a core component of rehabilitation, it promotes independence, well-being, and quality of life through personalized, goal-oriented interventions. Identifying and measuring the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the human–computer interaction (HCI) within OT is critical for improving therapeutic outcomes and patient engagement. Despite AI’s growing significance, the integration of AI-driven HCI in OT remains relatively underexplored in the existing literature. This scoping review identifies and maps current research on the topic, highlighting applications and proposing directions for future work. A structured literature search was conducted using the Scopus and PubMed databases. Articles were included if their primary focus was on the intersection of AI, HCI, and OT. Out of 55 retrieved articles, 26 met the inclusion criteria. This work highlights three key findings: (i) machine learning, robotics, and virtual reality are emerging as prominent AI-driven HCI techniques in OT; (ii) the integration of AI-enhanced HCI offers significant opportunities for developing personalized therapeutic interventions; (iii) further research is essential to evaluate the long-term efficacy, ethical implications, and patient outcomes associated with AI-driven HCI in OT. These insights aim to guide future research efforts and clinical applications within this evolving interdisciplinary field. In conclusion, AI-driven HCI holds considerable promise for advancing OT practice, yet further research is needed to fully realize its clinical potential. Full article

Background: The present study aimed to investigate the clinical correlates of treatment response to mood stabilizers in patients with bipolar disorder (BD), with a specific focus on trait-related characteristics such as impulsivity and affective temperaments. Methods: In- and outpatients diagnosed with BD were recruited at the Section of Psychiatry of the General Hospital/University of Perugia. Socio-demographic, clinical, and current psychopathological characteristics were collected. The treatment response was retrospectively assessed using the Alda Scale. Trait characteristics were evaluated through the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) and the Brief Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, and San Diego—Münster version (briefTEMPS-M). Bivariate analyses and a general linear model were employed to analyze the correlates of treatment response to mood stabilizers. Results: Among the investigated variables, trait impulsivity showed a significant negative association with treatment response. A similar effect was observed for depressive temperament, while other affective temperaments were not significantly associated with treatment outcomes. Patients with good treatment responses exhibited higher illness duration and lower severity of BD, higher prevalence of comorbid anxiety disorders, lower diurnal variation in depressive symptoms, and lower functional impairment in autonomy and occupational domains. The main limitations of this study were represented by the small sample size, the retrospective assessment of treatment response, and the inclusion of patients from a single center. Conclusions: The present findings suggest that impulsivity and depressive temperament should be investigated as potential predictors of poor response to mood stabilizers in BD. These trait dimensions, together with other clinical markers, may serve as useful targets for patient stratification and the development of personalized treatment strategies. Full article

The Mediterranean Diet (MD), although not always called by this name, has emerged over centuries as a diet influenced by diverse civilizations in the Mediterranean region, who blended local produce, traditions, and rituals with new ingredients and customs introduced through trade, migrations, or occupations. Historically characterized mainly by plant-based foods, olive oil, fish, moderate meat consumption, and moderate wine consumption, MD was also shaped by the holistic health principles advocated by figures like Hippocrates, Plato and Galen. Modern investigations, including Ancel Keys’ Seven Countries Study, confirmed its protective role against cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses, while UNESCO’s designation of the MD as an Intangible Cultural Heritage highlights its broader cultural significance. Today, although MD faces challenges from globalization and shifts in modern lifestyles, the advances in personalized and AI-driven nutrition, as well as specific public health initiatives offer opportunities to preserve its core tenets of balance, sustainability, and communal eating for future generations along with many scientifically proven benefits of this diet and the associated lifestyle. Full article

Ensuring occupational safety in underground mines is a fundamental priority due to the major risks associated with this unfriendly work environment. This involves employing a set of technical, organizational, and educational measures to reduce the hazards for workers and minimize the risks of accidents and occupational diseases due to electrical and mechanical causes. Old and precarious coal extraction methods, in conjunction with obsolete infrastructure and electrical and mechanical installations, lead to high accident risk, endangering the lives of underground workers when at work. Precarious working conditions and working materials alongside the carelessness of decision makers make underground mine-based work a major cause of accidents and professional illnesses. In this paper, the authors identify, estimate, prioritize, and evaluate the vulnerabilities within underground mines and discuss the actions and resources necessary to mitigate, stop, and/or eliminate these vulnerabilities, as well as a mitigation strategy for stopping and/or eliminating them to achieve increased occupational safety. Full article

On behalf of the Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology, we are pleased to present the Abstracts from the 2025 Annual Conference, titled “Responding to the Human Experience of Cancer and Caring for the Soul: Building on 40 years of global leadership in psychosocial oncology”. The 40th Annual CAPO Conference was held in Toronto from 23 April 2025 to 25 April 2025. In an era marked by the rapid advancement of biologically focused precision medicine, it is imperative to redirect our attention towards the human experience of illness and the soul of medicine. Biomedicine has conceptualized illness in ways that have proved profoundly productive from a curative and biological point of view. But it cannot—and it does not pretend to—illuminate the experience of living with it. (Hurwitz 2009). This conference aims to delve into the intricate interplay between cutting-edge biomedical technologies inclusive of artificial intelligence and big data and the deeply personal narratives of individuals navigating illness. By shifting the focus from mere disease pathology to encompassing the holistic human experience, we aspire to foster a more compassionate and patient-centered approach to healthcare with psychosocial support at the core of humanistic care that can improve survival and well-being in all aspects of a whole-person approach to illness. Through interdisciplinary dialogue and introspection, we endeavor to illuminate the profound connection between mind, body, and spirit in the practice of medicine, reaffirming the timeless significance of empathy, understanding, and human connection in healing and psychosocial aspects of care as fundamental to living well with cancer. This conference brought together key stakeholders including multidisciplinary professionals from nursing, psychology, psychiatry, social work, spiritual care, nutrition, medicine, rehabilitation medicine, occupational health and radiation therapy for both adult and pediatric populations. Participants included clinicians, researchers, educators in cancer care, community-based organizations and patient representatives. Patients, caregivers and family members presented abstracts that speak to their role in managing cancer experiences and care. Over two hundred (200) abstracts were submitted for presentation as symposia, 20-minute oral presentations, 10-minute oral presentations, 90-minute workshops and poster presentations. We congratulate all the presenters on their research work and contribution. Full article

Background: Respiratory infections pose a significant public health challenge, particularly among healthcare workers (HCWs). The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated absenteeism due to respiratory illnesses, affecting healthcare workforce stability. Identifying factors influencing absenteeism is crucial for workforce resilience and effective care. Methods: This retrospective longitudinal study analyzed HCW absenteeism due to respiratory diseases from 2017 to 2023 at the “Sf. Maria” Children’s Emergency Hospital in Iași, Romania. Data from 3827 HCWs were examined, including demographic and occupational variables (age, gender, job role) and disease types. Statistical analyses (chi-square tests, ANOVA, and regression models) were conducted using SPSS to assess absenteeism trends and associated risk factors. Results: Sick leave peaked in 2020 (8322 days) and remained high in 2021 (8134 days), gradually decreasing in 2022–2023 but not returning to pre-pandemic levels (~5000 days/year). Nurses accounted for most leave days, while male staff and HCWs aged 41–50 were most affected. Seasonal variations showed higher absenteeism in transitional months and lower rates in summer. COVID-19 was the leading cause of absenteeism during the pandemic, with quarantine measures further increasing sick leave duration. Conclusions: Pediatric hospitals must strengthen infection control measures to protect HCWs and sustain care continuity. Preventive actions such as immunization, staff training, and health monitoring are critical in reducing absenteeism, maintaining a resilient workforce, and ensuring quality care during health crises. Full article

Background/Objectives: The connection between nutrition and mental health has become a point of growing interest. In response, nutritional psychiatry research has emerged as a field dedicated to understanding these interactions. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to map the growth and trends in this area, providing insights into its evolving scope and key research contributions. Methods: A literature search was conducted within the Web of Science Core Collection. Data analysis was performed using the result analysis and citation report options of Web of Science as well as the visualization software VOSviewer (Version 1.6.20). Results: A total of 31,556 articles on nutrition and mental health were published from 2000 to 2024 across various WoS categories, mainly in “Psychiatry”, “Public, Environmental & Occupational Health”, and “Nutrition & Dietetics”. The most prolific research groups are based in North America. Recent publications mainly cover seven clusters: (1) public health and social factors, (2) interventions and biological mechanisms, (3) the health of the elderly, (4) nutrition-related illnesses, (5) lifestyle behavior, (6) observational studies, and (7) pregnancy and the postpartum period. Conclusions: In view of the increasing research activities and growing allocation of resources in nutritional psychiatry research, it is important to define research priorities in close collaboration with service users and stakeholders. Research should be approached in a holistic manner through multidisciplinary research consortia to ensure comprehensive and impactful outcomes. Full article