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OA in snow-crab processing workers of Newfounland-Labrador SafetyNet – 2002-3. Survey of 215 workers ( ~ 50% of total population) in 4 plants Almost certain/Highly probable OA: 16.3% Possible OA : 22.3% High proportion taking asthma medicine.
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OA in snow-crab processing workers of Newfounland-LabradorSafetyNet – 2002-3 • Survey of 215 workers (~ 50% of total population) in 4 plants • Almost certain/Highly probable OA: 16.3% • Possible OA : 22.3% • High proportion taking asthma medicine
OA in snow-crab processors of NLsocial impact – D. Howse, B. Neis et al • Substantial quality of life impacts (N=12) • Tendency to under medicate • Little continuity of care • Tend to work until can work no longer because: • few alternatives • family responsibilities • like having a job • like economic independence
OA in snow-crab processors of NLsocial impact – D. Howse, B. Neis et al • Unlikely to have been objectively diagnosed prior to study • Physician unlikely to have suggested filing a claim with WHSCC • Apprehension about filing a claim • Very few claims to WHSCC
Outcome of patients with continuous exposure Côté J, ARRD 1990: • Follow-up (6.5 y; 1-13) of 48 workers with red cedar OA still working in the same company • Improved 10.4% • Stable 62.5% • Deteriorated 37.5% • Recovered 0 • No way to predict who will deteriorate • Reduction of exposure by transfer to a less dusty job and use of an air stream helmet did not prevent deterioration; twin-cartridge respirator were useful
In workers with limited job alternatives… • Although the best outcome is associated with early removal from work exposure, this is impractical in communities with few job alternatives, particularly seasonal. • What should be our recommendations in relation to work? • Can they continue to work in the same environment, with reduced exposure, if none is impossible? • How should we monitor these workers to prevent further deterioration? • Symptoms, spirometry, PC20, sputum…
Research needs • Is the type of agent (H vs LMWC) important in the outcome of workers with OA? • Is there a genetic predisposition for better outcome?