Epidemiologic features of urolithiasis among industrial employees. The Israeli CORDIS Study

We examined the prevalence of urolithiasis in 5574 men and women employees in 21 industrial plants in Israel who were screened for cardiovascular risk factors between 1985 and 1987 (the CORDIS Study). Among the data gathered were previous physician diagnosis of urolithiasis and ergonomic and demographic data. Urolithiasis was much more frequent in men than in women (age-adjusted prevalence of 4.5% in men and 1.2% in women, P < .0001). Older subjects had higher prevalence than young subjects. There were ethnic differences, and the highest prevalence was in subjects of European origin. Of the occupational factors, only industrial sector was related to prevalence of urolithiasis. Urolithiasis was more frequent among employees in wood industries than in other sectors (P < .05). We concluded that there is an effect of industrial sector on the prevalence of urolithiasis. To determine the cause and magnitude of the association of wood industries with increased prevalence of urolithiasis, ergonomic and chemical factors should be investigated.