Cardiovascular diseases - 929 entries found

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1996

CIS 97-687 Chamoux A.
Maximum performance time and heart rate: A theoretical approach
Durée limite de travail et fréquence cardiaque - Approche théorique [in French]
Maximum performance time decreases with work intensity. This relationship characterizes endurance and it varies from person to person. The knowledge of this individual endurance relationship allows: from the occupational health point of view, to predict the intensity of effort not to be exceeded for a specific duration; from the performance point of view, to predict the optimal intensity of effort according to its duration. Heart rate is used to estimate the relative work load. An exponential endurance time/relative intensity relationship is hypothesized and the logarithmic rather than arithmetic mean of instantaneous heart rate is therefore recommended to estimate average work intensity. The individual exhaustion relationship is calculated from this heart rate logarithmic mean. This method takes into better consideration peak values for intense activities, particularly in lactic anaerobia.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Oct. 1996, Vol.57, No.6, p.419-428. Illus. 50 ref.

CIS 97-503 ICOH'96 - For a good working life; Key-note addresses; Collection of abstracts
CIST '96 - Pour bien vivre au travail; Conférences thématiques; Recueil des résumés [in French]
Main subjects dealt with in the communications presented at the 25th International Congress on Occupational Health, which took place from 15 to 20 September 1996 in Stockholm, Sweden: occupational health, a global perspective; promoting safe behaviour; dose concepts in occupational exposure assessment; a critical review of occupational studies on electromagnetic fields and cancer; role of the occupational health professional in the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders; working conditions and cardiovascular diseases; health and safety as a development resource; sexual differences and work; participatory approaches in occupational health research.
National Institute for Working Life, 171 84 Solna, Sweden, 1996. 79p. + 353p. + 437p. Index.

CIS 97-622 Kákosy T., Martin J., Lászlóffy M., Székely A.
Raynaud's phenomenon of occupational origin caused by bush-cutter equipment mounted on a tractor
A case of Raynaud's phenomenon was verified by cold-provocation test and by measuring finger systolic blood pressure in a man who had been driving a tractor installed with bush-cutter equipment for a period of five years. Vibration measurements on the steering wheel of the tractor showed acceleration values higher than the maximum allowable level. Based on clinical and exposure data, vibration-induced Raynaud's phenomenon was diagnosed. It is recommended that vibration measurements be performed on the steering wheel of a tractor after fitting any type of adapter.
Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1996, Vol.2, No.4, p.387-390. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 97-679 Harris L.R.
Horn playing and blood pressure
The blood pressure of 37 horn players was measured both at rest and while playing a scale. There was no correlation between the frequency of the notes played and blood pressure. While this study does not address the long-term effects of horn-playing or the effect of performance stress on blood pressure, it does offer reassurance that, for most individuals, blood pressures do not rise while simply playing.
Lancet, 12 Oct. 1996, Vol.348, No.9033, p.1042. 2 ref.

CIS 97-686 Rafacz W., McGill S.M.
Wearing an abdominal belt increases diastolic blood pressure
Blood pressure and heart rate were monitored for 20 subjects performing a variety of tasks both with and without an abdominal belt. Wearing the belt significantly increased diastolic blood pressure, even during tasks not associated with strenuous exercise. Changes in systolic blood pressure and heart rate were not significant. Individuals considering wearing an abdominal belt should also consider the risks associated with the additional cardiovascular load.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1996, Vol.38, No.9, p.925-927. 7 ref.

CIS 97-268 Schardt F.W., Moser L., Rosenfeld J.
The effects of noise and physical workload on the temporary threshold shift (TLS)
Wirkungen von Lärm und körperlicher Arbeit auf die temporäre Lautheitsverschiebung (TLS) [in German]
The effect of exposure to noise with sound pressure level of 80dB and frequency 4kHz alone and in combination with 20 minutes of physical exercise at 40% VO₂ max on the systolic and diastolic blood pressure and on the hearing sensitivity of 12 healthy male volunteers was studied. A loudness scaling hearing test was used to measure the changes in hearing sensitivity. The combined exposure to noise and physical exercise significantly changed the systolic blood pressure by 5mmHg. It increased the diastolic pressure by 3.5mmHg. Hearing sensitivity decreased more than by noise or physical exercise alone. The decrease in hearing sensitivity after the combined exposure lasted more than 240 seconds.
Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Umweltmedizin, July 1996, Vol.31, No.7, p.276-280. Illus. 28 ref.

CIS 97-311 Sobaszek A., Dômont A., Frimat P., Dreyfus J.P., Mirabaud C., Catilina P.
Chronic venous insufficiency in French workers: A multicentric survey
L'insuffisance veineuse chronique des membres inférieurs en entreprise: enquête réalisée auprès de trois populations de salariés français [in French]
Chronic venous insufficiency of the lower limbs affects about one French person out of three. Despite this, few studies has tried to determine its frequency at work or to appraise the influence of work conditions on this pathology. A survey was conducted through 1,974 questionnaires. A venous insufficiency has been found in 40% of respondents (83% women). The average age of the concerned subjects is 40 years. Work, mainly stooping, shows a significant link with venous insufficiency in women. Among men, more frequently subject to a standing position, a significant link with venous insufficiency was found. Women working in a humid atmosphere seem to be more at risk to develop venous insufficiency.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, May 1996, Vol.57, No.3, p.157-167. 6 ref.

CIS 97-322 Meyer J.P.
The pulse - An old indicator of physical strain that uses modern measurement techniques
La fréquence cardiaque, un indice d'astreinte physique ancien servi par une métrologie moderne [in French]
The usefulness of heart rate monitors in occupational medicine is evaluated. Part I provides a survey of existing monitors, and it makes some recommendations for their use in obtaining data and for the interpretation of such data. Part II contains sample heart rate recordings, and it discusses the difficulties of obtaining reliable heart rate data during work. Part III deals with the interpretation of data, the limitations of such monitors and their usefulness in reducing the physical load on workers.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 4th Quarter 1996, No.68, p.315-322. Illus. 19 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/htm/la_frequence_cardiaque_indice_astreinte_physique.html [in French]

CIS 97-347 Johnson J.V., Stewart W., Hall E.M., Fredlund P., Theorell T.
Long-term psychosocial work environment and cardiovascular mortality among Swedish men
This study examined the effect of cumulative exposure to work organization (psychological demands, work control and social support) on prospectively measured cardiovascular disease mortality risk. A sample of 22,517 Swedish males was followed over a 14-year follow-up period and 521 deaths from cardiovascular disease were identified. A nested case-control design was used. Work environment exposure scores were assigned to cases and controls by linking lifetime job histories with a job exposure matrix. In the final multi-variable analysis, workers with low work control had a relative risk of 1.83 for cardiovascular mortality. Workers with combined exposure to low control and low support had a relative risk of 2.62 . The conclusions were that long-term exposure to low work control is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease mortality.
American Journal of Public Health, Mar. 1996, Vol.86, No.3, p.324-331. 66 ref.

CIS 97-170 Todd A.C., Wetmur J.G., Moline J.M., Godbold J.H., Levin S.M., Landrigan P.J.
Unraveling the chronic toxicity of lead: An essential priority for environmental health
Exposure to lead in the general population has declined, but chronic lead toxicity remains a major public health problem in the United States, affecting millions of children and adults. To close current gaps in knowledge of chronic lead toxicity an integrated, multidisciplinary, marker-based research programme combines a) direct measurement of individual lead burden by Cd-109 X-ray fluorescence analysis of lead in bone, b) determination of ALA-D phenotype as index of individual susceptibility to lead, and c) assessments of subclinical injury produced by lead in the kidneys, nervous system and the reproductive organs. This marker-based research program offers a feasible approach to understand the following questions: a) are current environmental and occupational standards adequate to prevent chronic lead intoxication? b) is lead mobilized from the skeleton during pregnancy or lactation to cause foetal toxicity? c) is lead mobilized from bone during menopause to cause neurotoxicity? d) what is the significance of genetic variation in determining susceptibility to lead? e) what is the contribution of lead to hypertension, renal disease, chronic neurodegenerative disease or declining sperm counts? f) is chelation therapy effective in reducing body lead burden in persons with chronic overexposure to lead?
Environmental Health Perspectives, Mar. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.1, p.141-146. 68 ref.

CIS 97-315 Berg J.E.
A comparison of cardiovascular risk as measured by compound blood lipid indices and two indices including lifestyle factors in occupational health service
Cardiovascular risk was measured for 252 employees in a non-manufacturing firm using total cholesterol levels, a compound index of blood lipid components (the atherogenic index), and two other compound indices which included information on smoking habits and blood pressure. Results showed that a compound blood lipid index of cardiovascular risk, which may be drawn easily in an occupational health setting in an unfasting state and sent by post to a laboratory, mimics the allocation of persons to an increased risk group using combined indices. The use of the compound index together with advice to stop smoking is suggested as a time-saving strategy.
Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1996, Vol.46, No.4, p.299-303. 34 ref.

CIS 96-2324 Berg J.E.
Normal cholesterol measurements in white collar workers still at cardiovascular risk?
In a study of cardiovascular risk among 229 employees in a non-manufacturing firm in Norway, total cholesterol levels were compared with two compound indices of blood lipid components. Cut-off values to separate between high- and low-risk subjects were based on current clinical guidelines. Among subjects classified as low-risk based on total cholesterol measurements alone, between 12% and 23% would have been classified as high-risk using one of the two compound indices. Although further studies are needed to confirm these findings, results suggest avoidance of measurements of some single lipid factors.
Occupational Medicine, Apr. 1996, Vol.46, No.2, p.141-145. 34 ref.

CIS 96-2335 Camerino D., Ferrario M., Merluzzi F., Origgi G., Barducci M.
Validation of the Italian version of the Kjellberg & Iwanowski "Mood Scale"
Validazione della versione italiana della Mood Scale di Kjellberg & Iwanowski [in Italian]
Two questionnaires were administered to 1652 office workers of Milan City Council, in order to assess their cardiovascular health status and the impact of stress factors on it. For the first aspect the WHO Mopsy Questionnaire, while for the other the Swedish Kjellberg & Iwanowski Mood Scale were utilized. This method is used for the measurement of stress and arousal conditions in neurotoxicology. The aim of the study was to validate the Italian translation of the original Mood Scale questionnaire, correlating it with other questionnaires, such as the above mentioned Mopsy scale. This questionnaire has possible uses in health surveillance and for investigations of stress and arousal changes in the workplace. A good surface and construct validity and good internal consistency were observed.
Medicina del lavoro, Mar.-Apr. 1996, Vol.87, No.2, p.99-109. Illus. 18 ref.

CIS 96-1760 Soden K.J., Marras G., Amsel J.
Carboxyhemoglobin levels in methylene chloride-exposed employees
Methylene chloride is a volatile liquid used in a wide variety of industrial applications. The present OSHA permissible occupational exposure (500ppm, 8h TWA) is proposed to be reduced to 25ppm. This is due to the concern about potentially adverse cardiac effects related to high levels of carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) consequent to the exposure. Exposure assessments of non-smoking employees of a plant exposed to methylene chloride in the production process was performed, comparing the levels of COHb found with those of smokers. Exposure values were similar in both groups, with individually measured methylene chloride exposures averaging up to 99ppm. COHb levels ranged between 1.7-4% in non-smokers and between 4.95-6.35% in smokers. A dose-response effect was seen only in the non-smoking group. It was concluded that the observed COHb levels, resulting from exposures to methylene chloride at or below the current permissible limit (ACGIH) of 50ppm (8h TWA) are at a sufficiently low level and unlikely to produce an adverse cardiac effect in humans.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 1996, Vol.38, No.4, p.367-371. 12 ref.

CIS 96-1918 Couper A.D.
Understanding some of the more difficult research problems in maritime human factor research
Study of ship-board cultures and lifestyles in order to understand the human errors that occur in seafaring and the accidents that occur because of them. Results of four particular studies are summarized: fatigue at sea; coronary heart disease (CHD) among seafarers; deaths and injuries from accidents on board merchant ships; problems caused by the multicultural nature of ship crews and from the attendant failures of verbal and non-verbal communication. Extensive statistical tables are presented. Background material: fatigue on merchant ships (research data, current methods for fatigue reduction, the changing ship environment, causes and measurement of fatigue, circadian rhythms, microsleep, high risk times, desirability of rest days, fatigue monitoring, further research topics, conclusions); quality of sleep; CHD (project design, aims: data collection, risk estimation, proposals for prevention); multicultural problems and verbal and non-verbal on-board, ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication (background on intercultural relationships, sources of friction, development of standard maritime vocabularies; objectives of a project examining the problem from various angles).
International Research Centre for Seafarers Safety and Occupational Health, Department of Maritime Studies and International Transport, University of Wales, Cardiff CF1 3TS, United Kingdom, Oct. 1996. [59p.]. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 96-1860 Griefahn B., Forsthoff A., Bröde P.
Heart rates, rectal and skin temperatures recorded during work in moderate cold
Heart rates and rectal and skin temperatures were continuously recorded for three groups of food industry employees working in air temperatures of 0-7°C, 13-15°C or moving frequently between these temperatures. The three groups differed only with regard to temperatures of the skin directly exposed to cold air, particularly the fingers. Temperature declines at the fingers and subsequent rewarming times were inversely related to average air temperatures. Since cold-induced vasoconstrictions probably constitute a risk for Raynaud's phenomenon, adequate protection of the hands against cold is required.
Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1996, Vol.2, No.2, p.146-157. 18 ref.

CIS 96-1770 Morvai V.
Cardiovascular effects of metals
Studies of the toxic cardiovascular effects of metals in animals and humans are reviewed, in particular those of arsenic, barium, cadmium, cobalt, copper, iron, lead, nickel and vanadium. Despite the numerous data available, the exact mechanism of metals in the aetiology of cardiovascular disease remains obscure. Future research needs are outlined.
Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1996, Vol.2, No.2, p.115-145. 194 ref.

CIS 96-1378 Aviado D.M.
Cardiovascular disease and occupational exposure to environmental tobacco smoke
Results of chemical analysis, animal experiments and human studies are reviewed and found not to support claims of an association between workers' exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and occupational coronary heart disease. Based on current OSHA practices for the regulation of emissions from other complex mixtures, it is proposed that ETS levels be regulated by monitoring levels of its surrogates, particularly nicotine, carbon monoxide, benzo(a)pyrene and carbon disulfide, substances associated with cardiovascular disease. Data indicate that the levels of these substances potentially arising from ETS do not approach their respective permissible exposure limits. Further regulation of ETS to prevent cardiovascular disease does not appear to be warranted.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Mar. 1996, Vol.57, No.3, p.285-294. 75 ref.

CIS 96-508 First aid (haemorrhages)
Primeros auxilios (Hemorragias) [in Spanish]
In the case of haemorrhage emergencies, rapid first aid action can be decisive. This video shows the way to stem a haemorrhage depending on where it is located, application of a tourniquet and urgent transport of the injured person.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, ediciones y Publicaciones, C/ Torrelaguna, 73-28027 Madrid, Spain. PAL videotape (13min). Price: ESP 3000 + VAT. ###

CIS 96-507 First aid (Artificial respiration)
Primeros auxilios (Respiración artificial) [in Spanish]
Causes of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Basic revival techniques: artificial respiration and heart massage carried out by one or two people.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, ediciones y Publicaciones, C/ Torrelaguna, 73-28027 Madrid, Spain. PAL videotape (10min). Price: ESP 3000 + VAT. ###

CIS 96-682 Cothereau C., Cambou J.P., Simon S., Bailly J.C., Conso F.
Cardiovascular diseases among French train drivers
Epidémiologie des maladies cardio-vasculaires parmi les conducteurs de trains français [in French]
A retrospective study of cardiovascular disease was carried out in 1991 among French train drivers. Cardiovascular problems were the fourth cause of sick leave exceeding 21 days and of 14% of the deaths. The principal pathology concerned was coronary heart disease. Eventual return to normal duties depends on the nature of the disease: train drivers with ischaemic heart disease cannot resume their normal work.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Feb. 1996, Vol.57, No.1, p.37-40. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 96-613 Fontana L., Gautherie M., Albuisson E., Fleury-Duhamel N., Meyer S., Catilina P.
Chronothermobiologic study of Raynaud's phenomenon secondary to a past exposure to vinyl chloride
Etude chronothermobiologique de phénomènes de Raynaud secondaires à une exposition ancienne au chlorure de vinyle monomère [in French]
The evolution of Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) after the end of exposure to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) is not well understood. Sixty-two patients were studied: 44 retired patients who had been exposed to VCM (time since last exposure, at least 8 years) and 18 non-exposed controls. Twelve of the retired patients reported RP affecting the fingers. In order to identify the objective causes of these complaints, a computerized chronothermodynamic examination using the standardized cold test on the 10 fingers was used. Results of exposed patients are compared with those of controls and are analyzed according to their complaints and past exposure to VCM. The authors observed: 1. In summer, a greater incidence of vasoconstriction due to cold in exposed patients with RP than in exposed patients without RP and controls. 2. No seasonal variation of cold test results in patients with RP. 3. No identification of the role of exposure levels on chronothermodynamic results. Conclusion: RP secondary to VCM exposure may persist more than 8 years after the end of exposure. Disorders are usually moderate, but present all year round.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Feb. 1996, Vol.57, No.1, p.9-18. Illus. 27 ref.

1995

CIS 98-1308 Tan X., Vanhoorne M.
Cardiovascular effects of exposure to carbon disulfide
Topics: carbon disulfide; cardiovascular diseases; epidemiologic study; healthy worker effect; literature survey; morbidity; mortality.
Archives of Public Health, 1995, Vol.53, No.7-8, p.329-349. 32 ref.

CIS 98-666 Coronary heart disease among truckdrivers
Topics: carbon monoxide; lead; conference; coronary diseases; drivers; epidemiologic study; hours of work; literature survey; mental stress; noise; ongoing research; physical workload; risk factors; road transport; social aspects; trucks.
European Commission, Directorate-General V, Employment, Industrial Relations and Social Affairs, Public Health and Safety at Work Directorate, Bâtiment Euroforum, 2920 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, 1995. 67p. Illus. 59 ref.

CIS 97-1949 Svensson B.G., et al.
Mortality and cancer incidence among Swedish fishermen with a high dietary intake of persistent organochlorine compounds
Two cohorts of Swedish fishermen were established to determine mortality and cancer incidence with different dietary intakes of persistent organochlorine compounds. The incidence of stomach and squamous cell skin cancers and mortality from multiple myelomas among Swedish east coast fishermen were elevated when compared with the general population of the region and with the west coast cohort, while that of colon cancer was lower. It is proposed that east coast fishermen, who are heavy consumers of fatty fish contaminated with organochlorine compounds, have an increased risk of developing stomach and skin cancer, though at the same time they have a decrease in mortality from ischaemic heart disease.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1995, Vol.21, No.2, p.106-115. 64 ref.

CIS 97-179 Nishijo M., Nakagawa H., Morikawa Y., Tabata M., Senma M., Miura K., Takahara H., Kawano S., Nishi M., Mizukoshi K., Kido T., Nogawa K.
Mortality of inhabitants in an area polluted by cadmium: 15 year follow-up
Follow-up study for 15 years (from 1974-5 to 1991) carried out on 2408 inhabitants of the Kakehashi River basin in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. The inhabitants had been the subjects of the health impact survey in 1974-5 to evaluate (by measurement of urinary retinol binding protein (RBP)) renal dysfunction induced by cadmium. Analysis of mortality was performed by dividing subjects into a urinary RBP positive group and RBP negative group. After adjustment for age, RBP positive group showed a significant relation to mortality in both sexes. When the standardized mortality ratios according to causes of deaths in the RBP positive group were compared with those of the RBP negative group or the overall Japanese population, increases of this ratio for cardiovascular diseased, especially heart failure, and renal diseases were found in both sexes. The results suggest that the prognosis of the exposed inhabitants with renal tubular dysfunction is unfavourable and the increase of mortality is due to heart failure and renal diseases.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 1995, Vol.52, No.3, p.181-184. 22 ref.

CIS 97-125 Frauendorf H., Caffier G., Kaul G., Wawrzinoszek M.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsmedizin
Investigation for recording and assessing the combined physical and mental loads on the cardiac system
Modelluntersuchung zur Erfassung und Bewertung der Wirkung kombinierter physischer und psychischer Belastungen auf Funktionen des Herz-Kreislauf-Systems [in German]
The aim of the investigation was to find out the influence of combined physical and mental load on the activity of the cardiovascular and motor system. Under all tested conditions of the study, there was an increase, with some hyperreactive subjects, of heart rate and arterial blood pressure as well as of the bioelectrical activity of the tested muscles. In the long-term, this could be a risk factor for cardiovascular disorders as well as disorders of the shoulder-arm region. Summary in English.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1995. 51p. Price: DEM 15.50

CIS 96-2091 Bortkiewicz A., Pałczyński C., Makowiec-Dąbrowska T., Górski P.
Cardiac arrhythmia in women performing heavy physical work
The response of the circulatory system to heavy physical work was assessed in 35 women employed as printing machine operators. Heart rates during work, leisure time and sleep were evaluated with Holter ECG recordings. In nine of the women, heart rhythm disturbances (in particular, supraventricular extrasystoles) were found, which occurred in connection with the physical tasks performed. Conduction disturbances were observed at night in three cases. Elevated blood pressure was found in five of the subjects, but without ECG alterations. Among those with ECG changes, only one had abnormal blood pressure. Sixty percent of the examined women were overweight and many of them were habitual cigarette smokers.
International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1995, Vol.8, No.1, p.23-31. 49 ref.

CIS 96-1858 Petersen R., Andersen M., Mikkelsen S., Nielsen S.L.
Prognosis of vibration induced white finger: A follow up study
A total of 102 subjects with vibration induced white finger (VWF) were reexamined 13 years after the condition had first been diagnosed. Information about symptoms, occupation, and the prevalence of other diseases was present in the medical records from the first examination and was collected by a questionnaire and an interview at the second examination. The decrease in systolic blood pressure in a finger during cold provocation (FSP%) was measured in the same finger at both examinations. At the second examination, 22% stated that the frequency of attacks had decreased, 32% that it had increased. The aggravation was most notable in smokers and subjects who also had circulatory diseases other that VWF. As the FSP% in nearly half of the subjects had improved, it is concluded that VWF has a good prognosis in patients with mainly moderate to severe VWF after one to 13 years of observation. Continued work with high-vibration hand-held tools, smoking, other circulatory diseases and young age at the time of the diagnosis hand an unfavourable influence on the prognosis.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1995, Vol.52, No.2, p.110-115. 22 ref.

CIS 96-1676 Tomei F., Baccolo T.P., Papaleo B., Rosati M.V., Magrini L., Iavicoli S., Fantini S., Scarselli R., Palmi S.
Job-related vein disorders in heavy industry, construction and the service industries
Flebopatie professionali nell'industria, nell'edilizia e nel terziario [in Italian]
Insufficient information on the influence of work on vein disorders was obtained from a literature review. The authors therefore studied by means of a questionnaire and clinical examinations 447 male subjects, who belonged to three different occupational categories: 151 industrial workers, 159 construction workers and 137 office workers. Particular consideration was given to the time spent in different postures at the workplace. The three groups were comparable in terms of age and other risk factors. Vein disorders were found in 38.4% of the heavy industry workers, 25.1% of construction industry workers and 22.6% of the office workers. The main work-related risk factor inducing vein disorders was identified as keeping a standing posture for a period equal or greater than 50% of the working time.
Prevenzione oggi, Jan.-June 1995, Vol.7, No.1-2, p.123-155. Illus. 44 ref.

CIS 96-1673 Laubignat J.F., Barraud P., Fontana L., Romain M.C., Cassagnes J., Catilina P., Chamoux A.
Pulmonary embolism and road transport - A recognized case of occupational accident
Embolie pulmonaire et transport - A propos d'un cas reconnu en accident du travail [in French]
A case of pulmonary embolism in a truck driver is described. Prolonged immobilization caused by a long journey appears to be the triggering factor. The medico-legal consequences are discussed.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1995, Vol.56, No.6, p.474-475. 3 ref.

CIS 96-1529 Rau R., Richter P.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsmedizin
24-hour monitoring to check the reactivity of psychophysiological parameters during periods of mental work and rest
24-Stunden-Monitoring zur Prüfung der Reaktivität psychophysiologischer Parameter in Belastungs- und Erholungsphasen [in German]
Pulse rate, blood pressure and sodium and potassium levels in saliva were monitored in 48 healthy students during a 24-hour period, while they maintained their normal activities (attending classes, sleeping). Some students were monitored during a second 24-hour period in which they took an examination. The strongest correlations were found between mental workload on one hand and pulse rate and blood pressure on the other. For the salivary potassium level the correlation was weaker while the sodium levels did not at all reflect short-term changes in the mental workload.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1995. 106p. Illus. 148 ref. Price: DEM 12.50.

CIS 96-1514 Giorgi-Owaller L.
Prevention of cardiovascular hazards among firefighters by the implementation of an appropriate physical activity programme
Prévention du risque cardio-vasculaire chez des sapeurs-pompiers professionnels par la mise en place d'un programme d'activité physique adapté [in French]
Thesis. Respirometric measurements on 22 French firefighters gave values of maximal oxygen consumption comparable to values obtained in other studies, both for firefighters and for the general population. Five of the 22 (23%) did not reach the 33.5 mL/kg/min that has been proposed as a minimal criterion of capacity to perform safely the tasks required of a firefighter. A physical fitness programme involving running, weight-lifting, swimming, team sports and simulated rescue activities was devised by academic specialists but implemented by professional firefighters who were trained as monitors by the academic team. After four months, the programme achieved broad acceptance and sensitized the firefighters to the necessity of greater fitness, but the time was too short to have a perceptible effect on their physical condition.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 1995. ii, 143p. Illus. 44 ref.

CIS 96-983 Kohout J., Topolčan O., Bejčková H.
The serum level of endothelin in patients with hand-arm vibration syndrome (a preliminary report)
Blood levels of endothelin were measured in 17 patients with vascular disease caused by vibration. Endothelin levels, occupation and length of exposure are tabulated for each worker according to the stage of the disease. The highest concentrations were determined in the most advanced forms of the disease. The effect of complicating cardiovascular diseases is discussed. Further studies are required to enable this method to be used in disease diagnosis.
Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1995, Vol.1, No.2, p.169-173. 16 ref.

CIS 96-982 Deyanov C., Mincheva L., Hadjiolova I., Ivanovich E.
Study on the level of blood pressure and prevalence of arterial hypertension depending on the duration of occupational exposure to industrial noise
In a study of 182 noise-exposed workers and 200 unexposed controls, conventional and occupational cardiovascular risk factors were recorded, blood pressure was measured and electrocardiograms were recorded. Exposed workers had higher levels of systolic blood pressure than the controls, particularly after 40 years of age. Rise in blood pressure was directly related to duration of noise exposure; greatest cardiovascular risk was in workers with more than 20 years exposure. The prevalence of arterial hypertension was 33% among the male workers and 16.5% among the women (23% and 14% in the control groups); women's risk increased considerably with increasing age.
Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1995, Vol.1, No.2, p.109-116. 14 ref.

CIS 96-976 Fuortes L.J., Tang S., Pomrehn P., Anderson C.
Prospective evaluation of associations between hearing sensitivity and selected cardiovascular risk factors
The prospective decline of hearing sensitivity was evaluated in a cohort of university physical plant and technical staff during the period 1984-1993. Age, sex, occupational and nonoccupational noise exposure, smoking, blood pressure and cholesterol level were each associated with a decline in hearing sensitivity. When controlling for age and historical noise exposure, systolic blood pressure and cholesterol level were independently associated with a decline in auditory sensitivity.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 1995, Vol.28, No.2, p.275-280. 25 ref.

CIS 96-695 Moen B.E., Hollund B.E., Torp S.
A descriptive study of health problems on car mechanics' hands
In a questionnaire survey of 172 car mechanics, 14% reported white finger (Raynaud's phenomenon), 24% reported paraesthesias in the hands or arms, 41% reported dry skin on the hands, 46% reported hand eczema, and 28% had experienced more than 20 cuts on the hands during the previous year. Hand eczema, white finger and cuts on the hands were all associated with employment for less than 14 years as a car mechanic. Further surveillance of the working environment of car mechanics is required.
Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1995, Vol.45, No.6, p.318-322. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 96-975 Sokas R.K., Moussa M.A.A., Gomes J., Anderson J.A.D., Achuthan K.K., Thain A.B., Risheh Z.A.
Noise-induced hearing loss, nationality, and blood pressure
Analysis of medical records of 2,361 oil and gas extraction workers in the United Arab Emirates indicated that 610 of the workers had some degree of noise-induced hearing loss. Hearing status was associated with diastolic blood pressure, age, nationality and body mass index, although the effect was small. When national groupings were evaluated independently, hearing loss was associated with higher systolic and diastolic readings among Asians and Sub-Saharan Africans; no such association was found for Europeans, North Americans, Arabs or North Africans. Noise-induced hearing appears to be associated with elevated resting blood pressure only within certain ethnic groups.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 1995, Vol.28, No.2, p.281-288. 22 ref.

CIS 96-882 Wolf C., Wallnöfer A., Waldhör T., Vutuc C., Meisinger V., Rüdiger H.W.
Effect of lead on blood pressure in occupationally nonexposed men
In a survey of 507 males with no occupational exposure to lead, the effects of age, weight, height, alcohol intake, nicotine consumption and blood lead on blood pressure were investigated. Both the diastolic and systolic blood pressure were significantly influenced by the body mass index, age and alcohol. A significant effect of lead could only be found for diastolic blood pressure. Results indicate that even in low concentrations, the influence of lead on diastolic blood pressure may be significant in this group of middle-aged men.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, June 1995, Vol.27, No.6, p.897-903. 18 ref.

CIS 96-1115 Montoliu M.A., Gonzalez V., Palenciano L.
Cardiac frequency throughout a working shift in coal miners
To estimate the physical effort necessary to sustain coal-mining activities in a poorly mechanized mine, cardiac frequency was measured throughout the working shift with a "Sport-Tester" in a representative sample of 73 Asturian miners engaged in a full spectrum of underground work. The mean cardiac frequency in miners working at the coal face (33 subjects, mean age 32.7 yrs, age range 21-48 yrs) was 106.5±18.2 beats/min. In other miners (40 subjects, mean age 34.6 yrs, age range 23-48 yrs) the value was 103.1±17.7 beats/min. The absolute values of subjects' shift-average heart rates were not related to age, measured (treadmill) VO₂ max or VO₂ max per kg body weight, but there was a weak correlation between these three factors and shift-average heart rate as a percentage of its maximal value. Workshift peak heart rate was negatively related to age. This study provides the distribution of the overall cardiac frequency values likely to be found in subjects working in these poorly mechanized mines. However, average workshift cardiac frequency differs considerably from subject to subject and is largely unpredictable. Summaries in French and German.
Ergonomics, June 1995, Vol.38, No.6, p.1250-1263. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 96-373 Hjelm E.W., Winkel J., Nygård C.-H., Wiktorin C., Karlqvist L.
Can cardiovascular load in ergonomic epidemiology be estimated by self-report?
In a study of 97 men and women representing a total of 53 different occupations, self-reported ratings of physical exertion and physical activity at the end of a work shift were correlated with average heart rate measured during the same shift. In the male population, ratings of both physical exertion and physical activity correlated with the average heart rate; no such correlation was observed among the women. Results suggest that cardiovascular load could be estimated by retrospective self-reports in the men, but not the women, selected in this study.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 1995, Vol.37, No.10, p.1210-1217. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 95-2243 Ising H., Babisch W., Kruppa B., Lindthammer A., Wiens D.
Chronic exposure to noise at work: A major risk factor in myocardial infarction
Chronischer Arbeitslärm - ein wesentlicher Risikofaktor für Herzinfarkt [in German]
According to this case-control study conducted through a questionnaire survey, the relative risk of myocardial infarction (adjusting for confounding variables) increased significantly with increasing exposure levels to noise. Exposure to noise at work ranked second after smoking as a risk factor and accounted for 30% of the myocardial infarctions. Summary in English.
Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Apr. 1995, Vol.38, No.4, p.127-130. Illus. 22 ref. ###

CIS 95-2304 Dejanov H., Hadžiolova I., Minčeva L.
Chronic occupational stress and cardiovascular risk in schoolteachers
Hroničen profesionalen stres i sărdečno-sădov risk pri učiteli [in Bulgarian]
Changes with age in arterial pressure (AP) and incidence of arterial hypertension (AH), as well as the probability of developing ischaemic heart disease, were compared between 168 school teachers and a control group of 183 women working as office employees, designers, researchers etc. The teachers showed a closer correlation of age to AP level than did controls. Systolic AP increased markedly after 45 years of age, and there was a significant difference between the first and the second halves of the 4th decade. Diastolic AP was also higher in teachers than in controls. Duration of teaching experience was strongly correlated with systolic and diastolic AP. Beyond 40 years of age teachers showed a high incidence of AH (31%). The whole group was at high cardiovascular risk. Summary in English.
Problemi na higienata, 1995, Vol.20, p.81-90. 24 ref.

CIS 95-2290 Fontana L., Chamoux A., Albuisson E., Borel A.M., Djeriri K., Catilina M.J., Verjux T., Catilina P.
Determination of occupational stress in refuse collectors by applying work organization analysis to physiological data on heart rate and on posture
Détermination des contraintes liées à l'activité professionnelle du ripeur par l'analyse organisationnelle du travail en relation avec les données physiologiques de fréquence cardiaque et de postures [in French]
A study was conducted on twenty-six refuse collectors (mean age = 33.2yrs ± 9.2yrs) in order to: (1) assess the workload by measuring the heart rate in order to establish the greatest sources of stress; (2) to study the association between working postures and different kinds of refuse; (3) to describe and analyze work organization. The mean heart rate during work was 104.6 ± 16.3 beats per minute. The average relative cardiac cost was 32.9% ± 11.5; this qualifies the job as being "hard" according to the Chamoux method. A number of stress sources were identified: collection organization, the collected tonnage, the type of collected refuse and time constraints. Solutions to improve work organization and to reduce workload and spinal stress are discussed.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1995, Vol.56, No.5, p.351-358. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 95-1908 Dowd P.
Raynaud's phenomenon
Report of a meeting of physicians and scientists on Raynaud's phenomenon (held in London). Topics discussed include: three case studies of workers diagnosed as having Raynaud's phenomenon; recent advances in vascular control mechanisms; mechanisms of vasodilation; treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon. Discusses how advances in the understanding of blood-flow control have elucidated the pathophysiology of different categories of Raynaud's phenomenon.
Lancet, 29 July 1995, Vol.346, No.8970, p.283-290. Illus. 44 ref.

CIS 95-1848 Cocchiarella L.A., Sharp D.S., Persky V.W.
Hearing threshold shifts, white-cell count and smoking status in working men
The association between cardiovascular risk factors and high-frequency hearing loss was examined using medical records from 699 employees with low workplace noise exposure. High-frequency hearing was significantly associated with white-blood-cell (WBC) count (previously implicated as a marker for cardiovascular disease), smoking status, mean corpuscular volume and the globulin/albumin ratio, especially in men ≤40 years old. The association with WBC count remained significant after controlling for other factors. Findings suggest that high-frequency hearing loss may be used as a marker for susceptibility to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease.
Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1995, Vol.45, No.4, p.179-185. Illus. 46 ref.

CIS 95-1500 Gemne G., Brammer A.J., Hagberg M., Lundström R., Nilsson T.
Stockholm Workshop 94. Hand-arm vibration syndrome: Diagnostics and quantitative relationships to exposure - Proceedings
Proceedings of a conference on hand-arm vibration syndrome and diagnostics and quantitative relationships to exposure held in Sweden, 25-28 May 1994. Papers include: vibration exposure and vibration-induced white finger among stoneworkers; hand-transmitted vibration and its effects; vibration transmission and hand-arm impedance; the occurrence of sensorineural disorders and their relationship to vibration exposure; five-year follow-up of nerve conduction over the carpal tunnel; overview of quantitative diagnostic tests in vibration-induced white finger; influence of hand dimensions and grip force on vibration transmission into the hand; additive acute effects of multi-axis vibration exposure from hand-held vibrating tools; occupational carpal tunnel syndrome in the construction industry.
Arbetsmiljöinstitutet, Förlagstjänst, 171 84 Solna, Sweden, 1995. 199p. Illus. Bibl. ref.

CIS 95-1090 Bøggild H., Freund L., Bagger J.P.
Persistent atrial fibrillation following electrical injury
A case of fixed atrial fibrillation which persisted 20 years after an electrical injury is reported. A woman worker sustained a hand-to-hand electrical injury (220 or 360V, 50Hz) while handling an oven at work. An electrocardiogram later showed atrial fibrillation. Attempts to convert the patient to sinus rhythm in the following years failed. The case shows that chronic supraventricular arrythmia can follow electrical injury.
Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1995, Vol.45, No.1, p.49-50. 15 ref.

1994

CIS 96-2111 Belkić K., Savić C., Theorell T., Rakić L., Ercegovac D., Djordjević M.
Mechanisms of cardiac risk among professional drivers
This literature review indicates that professional drivers have excess cardiac risk that is not fully explained by standard risk factors. The contribution of occupation is suggested by two independent methods and by psychophysiological studies during on-the-job driving. Driving has been conceptualized as a threat-avoidance task. Stimuli encountered in traffic are not inherently aversive but become so by association with driving experiences, a formulation corroborated by laboratory studies in which stimuli such as car headlights elicit cardiovascular hyperreactivity and electroencephalographic signs of arousal in professional drivers. More advanced neurophysiological methods (event-related potentials) show higher cortical electronegativity to imperative signals among professional drivers than among non-driver referents. These data are viewed in light of reports of possible associations between event-related slow potentials and cardiac risk. A clinically and ecologically relevant neurocardiological model is proposed, and preventive strategies, including workplace interventions, are suggested.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1994, Vol.20, No.2, p.73-86. Illus. 153 ref.

CIS 96-1914 Rau R.
Teamwork versus isolated work: Influence of work organization on human reliability
Team- versus Einzelarbeit: Handlungssicherheit in Abhängigkeit von der Arbeitsform [in German]
Pulse rate and blood pressure were measured in 50 volunteers who performed computer-simulated tasks in isolation or in a team. In addition, mental stress was assessed with a questionnaire. The tasks performed by the volunteers corresponded to their real work and were concerned with monitoring the distribution of electric power and with repairing faults in the power distribution system. All volunteers performed the tasks without mistakes, but pulse rate, blood pressure and the subjectively assessed mental stress were significantly higher for work performed in isolation. Although it did not lead to mistakes, work in isolation is seen as a risk factor which may reduce human reliability. Abstract in English.
Zeitschrift für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie, 2nd Quarter 1994, Vol.38, No.2, p.62-70. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 96-1854 Azzaretto E., Peretti A.
Methodologies for the detection and evaluation of hand-arm vibration caused by agricultural and forestry machinery
Metodologie di rilevazione e di valutazione delle vibrazioni trasmesse al sistema mano-braccio da macchine agricole e forestali [in Italian]
This report deals with the impact of hand-arm vibration caused by work with agricultural and forestry machines. A standardized methodology to measure such vibrations was defined, partly in order to obtain data that can be used to reduce health problems (Raynaud's phenomenon), due to exposure to vibration in an unregulated environment. Results of measurements are used to suggest possible improvements in the manufacturing of these vibration-generating machines.
Prevenzione oggi, July-Sep. 1994, Vol.6, No.3, p.3-58. Illus. 30 ref.

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