History of work-related health problems in a population-based sample of women: An exploratory factor analysis

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2021

Authors

Amaro, J (Author) FMUP; Ubalde Lopez, M (Author) Other; Lucas, R (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Work

Vol. 68

Pages: 563-576

ISSN: 1051-9815

Publisher: IOS PRESS

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 1 Citation

Scopus - 1 Citation

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00T-RNK

DOI: 10.3233/wor-203394

Abstract (EN): BACKGROUND: Beyond the health-enhancing effects, work also has the potential of causing or worsening different health conditions in the same individual. However, research on within-worker aggregation of work-related health problems is scarce. OBJECTIVE: To describe the history and aggregation of work-related health problems in a population-based sample of women. METHODS: A total of 4330 women were asked whether they had ever had "a physical or mental health problem that was caused or made worse by your work". The aggregation of work-related health problems was assessed using an exploratory factor analysis. RESULTS: Five groups were identified. Factor 1 included all items on musculoskeletal disorders - lower socioeconomic position, higher BMI, smokers and history of occupational accidents. Factor 2 included mental disorders together with headache and/or eyestrain - higher socioeconomic position. Factor 3 included the other disorders item with some loading from digestive disorders - older and public sector workers. Factor 4 included respiratory disorders - lower socioeconomic position and history of occupational accidents. Factor 5 included hearing and ear problems - blue-collar workers. CONCLUSIONS: There was a relevant aggregation of work-related health problems, which may inform the selection of specific components for interventions that aim to improve women's work-related health.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 14