Occupational self-reported symptoms among female hairdressers in Nablus city: A cross-sectional study

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Date
2019-10-31
Authors
Abushanab, Ruba
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An-Najah National University
Abstract
The study aims to measure the prevalence of respiratory, musculoskeletal, skin and reproductive symptoms among a random sample of female hairdressers in Nablus city through a questionnaire. The study further examines the possible association between exposure to occupational factors and the reported symptoms. In total 310 hairdressers were randomly selected from a full list of all hairdressers registered in the Palestinian association of hairdressers in Nablus to participate in this cross-sectional study. The study results revealed that respiratory, skin, musculoskeletal and reproductive symptoms are very prevalent among female hairdressers in Nablus city shortness of breath for example had a prevalence of ( 34.8%), cough (26.1%), hand dermatitis (23%), neck pain (71.9%), shoulder pain (68.4%), back pain (68.1%), and abortion (26.5%). The study also found a statistically significant association between respiratory and musculoskeletal symptoms and the work duration, wheezing and cough were positively associated with work duration (p- values 0.029, and 0.032 respectively), as were shoulder, elbow, hand, and wrist pain with (p-values 0.047 and 0.007 respectively). However, no statistically significant relations were observed between the reproductive symptoms and the work duration. We recommend improving the work conditions, and raise the level of knowledge and awareness among hairdressers regarding the importance of using protective equipment and encourage safe handling of chemicals.
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Occupational self-reported symptoms among female hairdressers in Nablus city: A cross-sectional study
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