Occupational Health

10 Aug

Posted at 16:21h in Environmental Risks, Mesothelioma, Occupational Health

Asbestos exposure is often discussed as a workplace problem from another era. Yet its health effects continue to appear in patients today. That is largely because mesothelioma can develop many years after a person first inhaled asbestos fibers. Someone who worked around insulation, construction materials, industrial equipment, or older mechanical systems decades ago may only now be dealing with the medical consequences.

The disease remains rare, but it has not disappeared. According to CDC U.S. Cancer Statistics, 2,669 cases of malignant mesothelioma were reported in the United States in 2022, based on data highlighted in a September 2025 update. Most cases are associated with asbestos exposure. For workers and families trying to understand how an old job may relate to a recent diagnosis, medical records and employment history can become important. Some patients also consult Dallas asbestos attorneys to investigate whether occupational exposure may provide grounds for a claim. According to the CDC U.S. Cancer Statistics program, mesothelioma rates have remained relatively stable in recent years, though the disease's long latency means new cases from past exposures continue to emerge.

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10 Jul

Posted at 21:35h in Occupational Health

Your truck is built to handle long distances, changing weather, and demanding routes. Your body has to keep up with all of it. Every delivery depends on clear thinking, steady energy, and quick reactions, yet those qualities don't happen by accident. They come from the choices you make before, during, and after every trip. Eating well, sleeping enough, and paying attention to your health can make each drive feel more manageable while helping you stay focused when the road gets unpredictable. Looking after yourself isn't just another item on a checklist. It's part of being a dependable commercial driver.

Let's look at the habits that can keep you feeling your best mile after mile.

[caption id="attachment_74940" align="aligncenter" width="500"]tips_every_commercial_driver_should_know Image source[/caption]

04 Jun

Posted at 11:54h in Health Care Workers, Occupational Health
[caption id="attachment_74084" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Compact Standing Desks for Small Home Offices Image Source: Desky[/caption] The best compact standing desks for small home offices deliver dual motors, smart height controls, and an ergonomic height range from roughly 24" to 49" in a purposefully space-saving footprint. The Desky Dual Mini Sit Stand Desk leads this list for its 3-stage legs, 308.6 lbs capacity, app and Siri controls, 30-plus desktop finish options, and a 10-year warranty, all in a frame built specifically for tight spaces. Research confirms that prolonged sitting increases musculoskeletal strain and raises the risk of back and neck pain during extended work sessions. For remote workers, healthcare professionals, and students managing home setups, a compact sit-stand desk is one of the most practical tools for supporting spinal health without sacrificing floor space.

03 Mar

Posted at 18:05h in Occupational Health, Pain Research
Editor's note: This post provides background information only.  Please discuss any and all musculoskeletal and/or pain issues with your health care provider for specific medical advice. [caption id="attachment_72678" align="aligncenter" width="500"]sitting-at-work-back-pain.jpg Photo by fauxels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/top-view-photo-of-people-discussing-3182774/[/caption] Musculoskeletal Decline and the Productivity Crisis: Why Understanding Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis Matters for the UK Workforce  Recent Health and Safety Executive statistics indicate that work-related musculoskeletal disorders remain the most commonly reported cause of work-related ill health in the UK, accounting for over 6 million lost working days annually (HSE, 2023). Back, neck, and upper limb conditions dominate these figures. At a national level, the Office for National Statistics continues to report prolonged productivity stagnation, with output per hour showing limited sustained growth over the past decade. While productivity trends are multifactorial, the contribution of chronic physical impairment warrants closer attention. From a clinical perspective, when assessing occupational risk, distinguishing between metabolic bone disorders and degenerative joint diseases is essential. For example, understanding osteoporosis vs osteoarthritis helps clarify how systemic bone fragility differs from progressive joint degeneration, each carrying distinct long-term implications for work capacity. Globally, the Global Burden of Disease Study continues to identify low back pain as the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide (Vos et al., 2020). Taken together, these findings position musculoskeletal decline not only as a public health burden but also as a measurable contributor to workplace productivity loss across working-age populations.

29 May

Posted at 11:58h in Legal-Malpractice, Occupational Health, Pulmonary Disease
[caption id="attachment_68836" align="aligncenter" width="500"]silicosis-construction-workers Photo by Kelly[/caption] The American Lung Organization says 2.3 million US workers are exposed to silica at work. Most of the workers come from the construction industry. Exposure to silica at work mostly happens in the construction industry. Silicosis can develop from silica exposure. The disease is incurable, but its symptoms can be managed through treatments. According to silicosis attorney Christopher J. Canlas, workers who have been exposed to silica dust may get silicosis. Inhaling silica may injure you forever or even kill you. A silicosis attorney can help you check if you have an occupational disease and obtain compensation for your illness. Legal assistance can help secure payments for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. The support of an experienced lawyer can result in the identification of a liable party for your illness. They will assess whether negligence or regulatory violations played a role in your silicosis diagnosis. They can also help you file claims or lawsuits.  Legal assistance may be necessary after a silicosis diagnosis to protect your rights and future.

15 May

Posted at 11:46h in Occupational Health, Pain Research
pain-sitting-at-desk Struggling with lower back pain is common, as most of you who are working office jobs and for more than 8 hours per day can probably relate, I’ve come to understand just how important it is to take proactive steps to protect your spine.  Sitting for prolonged periods without proper support or movement can slowly wreak havoc on your posture, muscle balance, and overall comfort.  This guide walks you through five practical and effective steps you can implement right now to help prevent back pain while sitting at your desk, whether you’re working from home or in a traditional office setting.

Get a Better Office Chair

When choosing an office chair for back pain, look for one that encourages good posture, offers solid lumbar support, and is fully adjustable to fit your body. A well-designed ergonomic chair supports the natural curve of your lower back, helping to prevent slouching and reduce pressure on your spine. The seat should be deep enough to support your thighs without cutting off circulation, while the armrests should let your arms rest comfortably, easing tension in your shoulders and neck. If you're unsure where to start there are plenty of helpful resources online that explain what to look for in an ergonomic chair.

14 May

Posted at 14:56h in Education, Occupational Health
[caption id="attachment_68527" align="aligncenter" width="500"]height-safety-courses.png Source: Freepik.com[/caption] In industries like construction, warehousing, telecommunications, and maintenance, working at heights is often part of the job. But it’s also one of the most dangerous parts, requiring strict procedures, clear safety protocols, and, most importantly, proper training. Height safety training courses are designed to give workers the knowledge and skills to handle elevated work environments safely. These courses cover a wide range of areas – let’s explore the most common ones and why they matter so much.

Legal Responsibilities and Risk

One of the first topics that is usually covered in any height safety training course is the legal framework surrounding work at heights. You learn about workplace health and safety (WHS) laws, employer and employee responsibilities, and the potential consequences of not complying. Understanding the legal side helps workers take accountability and play their role in creating a safe environment. You can also get a Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety to explore WHS laws in more depth.

28 Apr

Posted at 11:23h in Legal-Malpractice, Mental Health Research, Occupational Health, PTSD
The Role of Mental Health Professionals in Proving Emotional Distress Emotional injury is the psychological pain inflicted by another's act or failure to act, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. In Jackson's court cases, such as workers' compensation or personal injury, one needs to establish such effects, although it is difficult because there is no physical evidence. If you're looking for a claim of emotional distress, a personal injury lawyer in Jackson can help you navigate the process. The professional can also ensure mental health professionals affirm your claim so that the case becomes more sound through professional diagnoses and reports. Let us take a look at the major role that mental health practitioners play in determining emotional distress and how their presence can seal a case.

23 Apr

Posted at 13:28h in Addiction, Occupational Health
Recovering from addiction isn’t just about staying sober—it’s about rebuilding your life, piece by piece. One of the most crucial steps in this recovery process is finding employment. But for recovering addicts, this journey can come with unique challenges, including gaps in work history, criminal records, or ongoing mental health conditions. That’s where job placement services come in, offering valuable support that can make all the difference in long-term recovery. Job Placement Services after Addiction

Jobs for Recovering Addicts: A Crucial Step Toward Stability

For those in early recovery, landing the right job is more than just a paycheck—it’s a symbol of hope, purpose, and self-worth. Jobs for recovering addicts can provide a stable routine, help manage triggers, and reinforce the progress made through addiction treatment. These opportunities can support people in maintaining their recovery status, rebuilding confidence, and rediscovering their skills and interests.

Job Seekers in Recovery Face Unique Challenges

Job seekers recovering from substance use or alcohol addiction often face multiple barriers. Some are struggling with health concerns, others with mental health diagnoses, and many must confront a lack of employment history or a criminal record. Yet, despite these obstacles, there is hope—and help available.

Navigating the Job Search After Addiction Treatment

The job search can feel overwhelming, especially after a period of substance abuse or drug use. Many job seekers may not know where to begin. That’s where job placement services and agencies specializing in recovery come into play. These programs offer customized assistance with everything from resume writing to interview preparation and networking with potential employers.

23 Apr

Posted at 12:26h in Occupational Health
[caption id="attachment_68096" align="aligncenter" width="500"]the-laughter-rx.png SOURCE: Pexels[/caption] Imagine a scenario where your employees and team are eager to work and possess an unwavering spirit to deal with unpredictable circumstances, stressful conditions, endless meetings, and tight deadlines. They deliberately and consciously want to step out of their comfort zones and bring the most innovative and creative ideas to the table. However, you must be wondering if this imagination is far-fetched and seems to have zero possibility of happening in reality. Fortunately, you are wrong here. Mental wellness in the workplace is not eradicated by merely reducing the workload or giving more leave. It's not about omission; it's about addition. And the biggest and most effective addition to your workplace will be humor. Yes, the same humor you associate with comedians and actors. This free and accessible tool is not just limited to the stage; it can positively impact your team’s mental wellness and ensure that they feel lighter, relaxed, refreshed, and collaborative. However, integrating humor in the workplace is not about sharing memes or using sarcasm. It's about welcoming levity and leveraging lightheartedness to reduce stress, build confidence and trust, and boost your team's emotional capability to handle volatile situations. Humor allows the existence of moments of laughter when the team is under high pressure or is stuck on a problem for hours. It allows you to clear mental fog and give your team the resilience to look beyond the generic solutions and melt the stress. “Laughter Rx” is a revolutionary concept. With Tedx-style topical webinars for team-building and wellness initiatives, you can foster a sense of constant learning and development. With a flexible drop-in format for those who want to observe, you can instill skills and concepts about mental wellness, along with unlimited laughter. The best gift for your team would be to book team-building workshops for employees which can become the starting point for promoting mental wellness in your organization. In this article, we will look at how integrating humor in the workplace improves wellness, and concepts such as Laughter Rx can aid in using levity as a stress buster for your teams. By the end, you will be cognizant of all the benefits of humor in the workplace and how it is essential for sustained mental wellness.

16 Apr

Posted at 17:11h in Occupational Health
online-doctors-notes Falling ill is never planned, and sometimes, getting a medical certificate can feel like an additional burden when you’re already under the weather. With digital healthcare solutions becoming more popular, services like Sicknote offer online sick notes to simplify the process. But a big question remains — are online sick notes actually legally valid? Let’s walk through everything you need to know so you can feel confident if you ever need to use one.

What Exactly Is an Online Sick Note?

An sicknote online, also known as a digital fit note, is a medical certificate issued by a licensed healthcare professional through an online consultation. Instead of visiting a doctor in person, you complete a virtual assessment. If the healthcare provider determines you’re unfit for work, they’ll issue a sick note that you can download or have emailed to you. This process saves time, effort, and sometimes even money, but naturally, people wonder if it holds the same legal weight as a traditional paper note from a clinic.

19 Mar

Posted at 11:18h in Brain Injury, Occupational Health

[caption id="attachment_67258" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Image source[/caption] In Las Vegas, famously known as the Sin City, there is often so much going on, from the buzzing nightlife, energetic casinos, and heavy traffic to continuous construction. Whether you work in an office, casino, or construction, you are at risk of sustaining a traumatic...

17 Mar

Posted at 09:02h in Occupational Health, Stress
[caption id="attachment_67178" align="aligncenter" width="500"]https://images.pexels.com/photos/3755761/pexels-photo-3755761.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&w=1260&h=750&dpr=1 Image source[/caption] Stress and burnout often build up without warning. The pressures of daily life gradually wear down both mental and physical health. Ignoring the early signs can lead to exhaustion, anxiety, and even long-term health problems.  What can be done to prevent this spiral? Small changes like improving sleep, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care may help, but are they enough?  Some people focus on creating a healthier routine with exercise, balanced nutrition, and relaxation techniques. Others explore alternative approaches like seeking guidance from a holistic medicine practitioner.  This article discusses effective ways to manage stress and take control of your well-being.

24 Dec

Posted at 17:18h in Occupational Health
[caption id="attachment_65665" align="aligncenter" width="468"]employee-health-wellbeing.jpg Image source[/caption] Employee health and well-being are fundamental pillars of a successful organization. After all, employees are not just resources—they are individuals with unique needs that require attention and care. Besides, fostering a healthy workplace benefits not only employees but also the organization. Healthier employees are more productive, creative, and committed to their work. Organizations that prioritize well-being see lower turnover rates, improved morale, and stronger teamwork. So, how can you make sure your employees stay healthy and ready to take on new challenges? This article explores eight essential steps organizations can take to ensure their employees thrive both physically and mentally.
  1. Promote Mental Health Awareness
Mental health issues, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, are increasingly common in modern workplaces. Addressing these challenges is not just a compassionate choice but a practical one. Employees struggling with mental health issues often experience reduced focus and productivity, which can ripple across the organization. The first step can be to encourage open discussions about mental health. Workshops, awareness campaigns, and training sessions can help employees and managers alike understand the importance of mental health and how to seek help. Offering confidential counseling services or partnering with mental health professionals can provide employees with the support they need. Organizations must create an environment where employees feel safe discussing their mental health without fear of stigma or judgment.

06 Nov

Posted at 14:00h in Exercise - Fitness, Occupational Health
Are you tired of the typical nine-to-five grind and craving something that keeps you on your feet—literally and figuratively? Well, if the thought of sitting at a desk all day gives you the yawns, this list will shake things up! [caption id="attachment_64613" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Franchise jobs Image source[/caption] Hands-on franchises offer dynamic workdays and the chance to dive into industries that are growing fast. From saving lives to swatting bugs, these franchise opportunities promise a future full of excitement, engagement, and the satisfaction of doing something that matters. Let’s dive into the top 10 hands-on franchise industries that will keep you from ever being bored!

Medical Franchise Opportunities: Changing Lives!

Medical franchise opportunities should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for meaningful work that truly makes a difference. This industry is perfect for those who want to combine entrepreneurship with compassion, from senior care to specialized medical services.  It’s a booming sector and hands-on, with many franchises offering at-home care, health screenings, and even urgent care centers. If helping others while growing a successful business sounds appealing, this might be your calling.

25 Sep

Posted at 10:41h in Cancer Research, Environmental Risks, Occupational Health
[caption id="attachment_63502" align="aligncenter" width="624"]AFFF-firefighting-foam Image Source[/caption] Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam used to extinguish fuel fires. It contains a group of chemicals in the family of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances commonly referred to as PFAS. Over time, these substances have been linked to some serious health problems, even cancer. If you have been exposed to AFFF and developed cancer, you have the right to file an AFFF lawsuit. Below are the types of cancers often linked to AFFF exposure.

05 Jul

Posted at 11:42h in Legal-Malpractice, Occupational Health
  [caption id="attachment_62244" align="alignleft" width="300"]occupational-injuries-rash Image Source[/caption] Machine-related injuries are a significant concern in many workplaces, affecting the safety and well-being of numerous workers. A common way in which workers get hurt around machines is due to the lack of proper guarding. Machine guards are essential as they serve as the first line of defense against hazards like cuts, crushing injuries, and even amputations. Ensuring that machines have appropriate guards can drastically reduce the risk of these severe injuries. Neglecting to maintain a clean work area is another prevalent cause of accidents. According to a report on machine shop injuries, keeping workstations tidy is crucial. Spillages, scattered tools, and other environmental issues can create tripping hazards, leading to falls that may result in serious harm. For those who have been injured at work, understanding the proper procedures for filing a workers' compensation claim and seeking legal advice is vital. Rapid response to injuries not only ensures appropriate medical treatment but also helps in securing rightful benefits for the affected worker. Many injured workers don't realize they have a limited window to file before losing their right to compensation, which is why so many consult a workers' compensation lawyer with a proven track record on machine-injury cases

14 Jun

Posted at 15:23h in Author Interviews, Occupational Health
[caption id="attachment_61958" align="alignleft" width="350"] Image source[/caption] If you’re a physician facing a disability, the very nature of your profession may complicate your situation more than most people. Your ability to perform your duties relies heavily on your mental and physical health. When that’s compromised, the challenges can be overwhelming. For many in your position, navigating physicians’ disability claims becomes an essential yet daunting task in this stressful time. Being informed of the complexities of these claims can make all the difference in securing the support you need.

09 Nov

Posted at 13:02h in Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, JAMA, Nutrition, Occupational Health, Sleep Disorders
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_59713" align="alignleft" width="136"]Zhilei Shan, MD, PhD Postdoctoral fellow on Nutritional Epidemiology Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Dr. Shan[/caption] Zhilei Shan, MD, PhD Postdoctoral fellow on Nutritional Epidemiology Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Unhealthy sleep behaviors and sleep disturbances are associated with higher risk of multiple diseases and mortality. The current profiles of sleep habits and disturbances, particularly the differences between workdays and free days, are unknown in the contemporary US. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response: In this nationally representative cross-sectional analysis with 9004 adults aged 20 years or older, differences in sleep patterns between workdays and free days were observed. The mean sleep duration was 7.59 hours on workdays and 8.24 hours on free days (difference, 0.65 hour). The mean sleep and wake times were at 11:02 PM and 6:41 AM, respectively, on workdays and 11:25 PM and 7:41 AM, respectively, on free days (differences, 0.23 hour for sleep time and 1.00 hour for wake time). With regard to sleep disturbances, 30.5% of adults experienced 1 hour or more of sleep debt,46.5% experienced 1 hour or more of social jet lag, 29.8% had trouble sleeping, and 27.2% experienced daytime sleepiness.

06 Dec

Posted at 22:23h in Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, Circadian Rhythm, Diabetes, Occupational Health, Science, Weight Research
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Sarah L. Chellappa, MD PhD Medical Chronobiology Program Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders Departments of Medicine and Neurology Brigham and Women’s Hospital Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School Boston, MA Department of Nuclear Medicine Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany. Frank A.J.L. Scheer, M.Sc., Ph.D. Professor of Medicine. Medical Chronobiology Program Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders Departments of Medicine and Neurology Brigham and Women’s Hospital Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School Boston, MA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you explain the difference between the central circadian ‘clock’ and endogenous circadian glucose rhythms?  Response: Night work increases diabetes risk. This increased risk is not fully explained by differences in lifestyle, family history, and/or socioeconomic status, thus other mechanisms are likely involved. Laboratory studies in humans have shown glucose intolerance in both non-shift workers and shift workers exposed to simulated night work. Animal experimental data suggests that this may be in part due to a misalignment between central and peripheral rhythms. Central circadian rhythms (e.g., body temperature) are primarily modulated by the central circadian “clock”, which is located in the brain’s suprachiasmatic nucleus and is responsible for synchronizing our physiology and behavior with the 24-hour cycle. Peripheral rhythms, including endogenous circadian glucose rhythms, are likely modulated by peripheral “clocks” across the body that play an integral role in modulating the circadian expression of physiology, including metabolic functions. These central and peripheral clocks share a common molecular mechanism underlying their circadian rhythm generating capacity, including transcription-translation feedback loops of circadian “clock” genes. 

24 Oct

Posted at 20:29h in Author Interviews, Cognitive Issues, COVID -19 Coronavirus, JAMA, Occupational Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_58291" align="alignleft" width="200"]Jacqueline H. Becker, Ph.D. Clinical Neuropsychologist Associate Scientist Division of General Internal Medicine Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Dr. Helcer Becker[/caption] Jacqueline H. Becker, Ph.D. Clinical Neuropsychologist Associate Scientist Division of General Internal Medicine Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: This study leverages data being collected through the ongoing Mount Sinai Health System Post-COVID-19 Registry, which is led by Dr. Juan Wisnivesky, Professor of Medicine and Chief of the Division of General Internal Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and senior author of the study. Our study concluded that there may be long-term cognitive repercussions from COVID-19 that impact individuals in various age groups and across the spectrum of disease severity, although the frequency of cognitive impairment was highest among patients who were previously hospitalized for COVID-19. 

11 Sep

Posted at 12:42h in Asthma, Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, Circadian Rhythm, Occupational Health, PNAS, Pulmonary Disease, Sleep Disorders
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Frank Scheer, PhD, MSc Professor and Director of the Medical Chronobiology Program Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders Brigham and Women’s Hospital Steve Shea, PhD Professor and Director Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: For hundreds of years, people have observed that asthma severity often worsens in the nighttime. As many as 75 percent of people with asthma—20 million people in the U.S.—report experiencing worsening asthma severity at night. One longstanding question has been to what degree the body’s internal circadian clock—as opposed to behaviors, such as sleep and physical activities—contributes to worsening of asthma severity. Our research used long term intensive monitoring throughout two circadian protocols in dim light and without time cues to carefully isolate the influence of the circadian system from the other factors that are behavioral and environmental, including sleep.

24 Aug

Posted at 23:08h in Abuse and Neglect, BMJ, Cognitive Issues, Occupational Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_57967" align="alignleft" width="80"]Prof-Mika-Kivimaki Prof Kivimaki[/caption] Prof Mika Kivimaki PhD Director, Whitehall II Study Dept. of Epidemiology University College London MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The Lancet 2020 Commission on Dementia Prevention, which is the most comprehensive and up-to-date review on the evidence in this field, did not list cognitive stimulation in adulthood as a protective factor against dementia. This was because trials results are inconsistent and observational studies suggest that leisure time cognitive activity does not reduce risk of dementia. However, it was unclear whether the reason for modest findings is that the decrease in brain plasticity with age prevents cognitive activities across adult life from conferring protection against dementia, or, in the case of interventions, that the cognitive stimulation studied has not been intensive or engaging enough to preserve cognitive function. To address this question, we decided to focus on cognitive stimulation at work rather than leisure time cognitive activity or cognitive interventions. We thought that this approach would allow us to detect an effect, if there is one, because exposure to cognitive stimulation at work typically lasts considerably longer than cognitively stimulating hobbies or cognitive interventions. We contacted 13 cohort studies in Europe which had data on cognitive stimulation at work. Seven had also a dementia follow-up and were selected to our analyses, a total of 107 896 dementia-free participants from the UK, France, Sweden and Finland. Follow-up of incident dementia varied between 13.7 to 30.1 years depending on the cohort. 1143 people developed dementia during this follow-up.

01 Aug

Posted at 15:21h in Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Occupational Health, Weight Research
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: https://www.newtopia.com/Jeff Ruby, JD, MBA, Founder and Chief Executive Officer Leonard Fensterheim, MPH Vice President of Analytics MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are common weight-change findings during the pandemic?  Obesity has been linked to increased risk of serious complications and the need for costly medical utilization – all of which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. There has been an increase of imposed restrictions that impact healthy lifestyles – the closing of gyms as an example – leading to additional stress and the complete disruption of daily lives. It’s no surprise that many people have gained weight since the beginning of the pandemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), before the pandemic about 40% of Americans had obesity in the United States. This was already an alarming figure, but given that the American Psychological Association found that 42% of U.S. adults report undesired weight gain, with an average gain of 29 lbs. since the start of the pandemic, we expect that percentage has continued to grow. Against this backdrop, Newtopia sought to evaluate the impact of a guided habit change program on weight loss for 12 months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method:
  • This was a retrospective study that looked at 1436 participants who began participating in the Newtopia experience in early 2020.
  • This analysis focused on weight change and was restricted to those participants with a body mass index >
  • 52% of participants were female, and the average age of the total study population was 46.5 years old (±10.6).
  • The percentage of participants with a 4.3% weight reduction after 12 months was assessed. This has been shown to be associated with meaningful reduction in healthcare costs.
  • The average weight loss and the percentage BMI decrease was also assessed.
  Outcomes:
  • 77% of participants lost weight.
  • 44% of participants had a weight loss of >3%.
  • Average weight loss was 4.2% (p<.0001).
  • 22% of obese participants dropped a BMI category.
Despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, individuals participating in the Newtopia habit change experience still achieved impactful weight loss.

27 Apr

Posted at 16:21h in Author Interviews, Circadian Rhythm, Heart Disease, Occupational Health, Sleep Disorders
Circadian misalignment is associated with a high cardiovascular risk among shift workers: MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_57241" align="alignleft" width="200"]Sara Gamboa Madeira Medical Doctor - General & Family Physician PhD Student - EnviHealth&Co - Faculty of Medicine Lisbon University Dr. Gamboa Madeira[/caption] Sara Gamboa Madeira Medical Doctor - General & Family Physician PhD Student - EnviHealth&Co - Faculty of Medicine Lisbon University MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: One in every five employees work in shifts across Europe1. Shift work have been associated with an increased risk for several cardiovascular diseases2 and three main mechanism have been proposed: unhealthy behaviours, disturbed sleep, and circadian misalignment. This study focused on the role of circadian misalignment, which we assessed via social jetlag. Social jetlag is calculated using the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire3 by the difference between sleep behaviour on free-days (mainly driven by the individual “biological clock”, also called chronotype) and sleep behaviour on workdays (mainly drive by the “social clock”, namely work schedules). Chronotype is an individual feature which ranges from early/morning people to late/evening people (from proverbial lark to owls), with the majority of the population falling in between as a Gaussian distribution. Therefore higher levels of social jetlag mean a greater mismatch between what your biological clock need (e.g. go to sleep at 9pm) and what your social obligations impose on you (e.g. work until midnight).

05 Apr

Posted at 13:50h in Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Dermatology, Infections, Occupational Health

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_57059" align="alignleft" width="200"] Jill Sommerville[/caption] Jill Sommerville M.Sc. Director of Medical at WaterWipes MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? How does the WaterWipes product differ from other cleansing products?  Response: During the first months of COVID-19, Professor Zena Moore, SWaT Researcher Centre Director and Head of the RCSI School of...

25 Mar

Posted at 10:22h in Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Occupational Health, Vaccine Studies
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_57010" align="alignleft" width="200"]Michelle N. Meyer, PhD, JD Assistant Professor & Associate Director, Research Ethics, Center for Translational Bioethics & Health Care Policy Faculty Co-Director, Behavioral Insights Team, Steele Institute for Health Innovation Assistant Professor of Bioethics Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Geisinger, PA Dr. Meyer, J.D.[/caption] Michelle N. Meyer, PhD, JD Assistant Professor & Associate Director, Research Ethics, Center for Translational Bioethics & Health Care Policy Faculty Co-Director, Behavioral Insights Team, Steele Institute for Health Innovation Assistant Professor of Bioethics Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Geisinger, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?   Response: Earlier research had found people are less likely to say they'll receive a COVID-19 vaccine offered to them under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) than one offered to them following full FDA approval. Earlier surveys had also found that only around 30% of health care workers intended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Because the public often looks to local health care workers for health advice, and in most prioritization schemes they were slated to be offered vaccines first, this was quite concerning for the prospect of achieving population immunity. Commenters had warned that if the FDA chose to make COVID-19 vaccines available under EUAs, that substantial efforts would need to be made to ensure trust. On Dec. 4, 2020, an announcement about anticipated vaccine availability was emailed to all 23,784 Geisinger employees, who were asked to indicate their intention to receive a vaccine when one was available to them and the reasons for any hesitation they might have.

12 Mar

Posted at 11:53h in Author Interviews, CDC, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Emory, JAMA, Occupational Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_56923" align="alignleft" width="107"]Jesse T. Jacob, MD School of Medicine Director, Antibiotic Stewardship Program Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia Dr. Jacob[/caption] Jesse T. Jacob, MD School of Medicine Director, Antibiotic Stewardship Program Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Since coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was recognized in the United States in January 2020, the risk of infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) attributed to exposures in the health care workplace has been studied with conflicting results, and the role of job functions (such as nurse) or specific workplace activities, including care for individuals with known and unknown SARS-CoV-2 positivity, increase the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We assessed more than 24,000 healthcare providers between April and August 2020 across four large academic medical systems (Emory, Johns Hopkins, Rush University Medical Center, and University of Maryland) which collaborate in the CDC’s Prevention Epicenter Program and conduct innovative infection prevention research. Each site conducted voluntary COVID-19 antibody testing on its health care workers, as well as offered a questionnaire/survey on the employees’ occupational activities and possible exposures to individuals with COVID-19 infection both inside and outside the workplace. We also looked at three-digit residential zip-code prefixes to determine COVID-19 prevalence in communities.