Prevalent Health Problems among Nepalese Underground Construction Workers.
Rajan Ghimire1, Ganesh Prasad Neupane2,3
1Clinical Coordinator, General Practice and Emergency Medicine, District Hospital, Terhathum, Nepal.
Journal of Environmental and Public Health
|January 25, 2021
Summary
Underground construction workers in Nepal face higher risks of injuries and hypertension compared to outdoor workers. Respiratory issues are common, highlighting the need for enhanced workplace safety measures in construction.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Construction work environments pose risks of adverse health outcomes.
- Underground construction presents unique occupational hazards.
- Health studies on construction workers are limited in developing nations like Nepal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of common health problems among Nepalese underground construction workers.
- To compare health issues in underground workers versus heavy construction workers.
- To inform preventative health strategies for construction personnel.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of outpatient and health checkup records.
- Study included 398 Nepalese construction workers at a hydroelectric project.
- Statistical analysis involved chi-square tests, correlation, and odds ratios.
Main Results:
- Respiratory diseases (URTI) were most common (23.4%), followed by injuries (16.7%).
- Tunnel workers showed significantly higher rates of injuries and hypertension.
- Outside workers had higher incidence of acute gastroenteritis; older age correlated with hypertension and fungal infections.
Conclusions:
- Underground construction workers experience higher rates of injuries and hypertension.
- Respiratory problems are prevalent, necessitating improved workplace safety.
- Targeted interventions are needed to address specific health risks in construction settings.
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