Disability adjusted life years (DALYs) due to occupational injuries in east delta region of Egypt. (1st March 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eldin, W S; Hirshon, J M; Smith, G S; Kamal, A M; Abou-El-Fetouh, A; El-Setouhy, M
• Is Part Of: Injury prevention. Volume 16(2010)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A43
• Page End: A43
• Publication Date: 2011-03-01
• Subjects: Children's accidents -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Accidents -- Prevention -- Periodicals; 617.1
• DOI: 10.1136/ip.2010.029215.157
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-8047

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Occupational injuries are a public health problem. Determining rates, types and burden of occupational injuries is critical in planning prevention strategies. Objectives: To describe the epidemiology of occupational injuries in the Eastern Delta industrial region of Egypt and to measure the burden of these injuries in terms of DALYs. Method: A retrospective chart review was conducted of all individuals with occupational injuries presenting in 2008 to the Nile Insurance Hospital, the main East Delta Hospital for insured patients. Results: During 2008, there were 2129 occupational injuries presenting to the Nile Insurance Hospital. Cases were 85% males with mean age 30.79 years (range 18 59 years). Ninety-five percent of injuries reportedly occurred inside the workplace, with the most frequent cause (40%) contributed to collision against machines or part of a machine. About 89% of injuries occurred during work; 4.7% of cases occurred going to or from work. Previous work injuries were report by 41% of injured workers. Hands/fingers were the most frequently affected body part. Among different industries present in the East Delta region, the glass/crystal industry had the highest incidence rate of injuries (112.6/1000 workers). Crystal polishing workers were the most frequently injured workers (36.5%). Only 3.1% of injuries resulted in partial disability. The overall reported injuries resulted in 367.53 DALYs. Conclusions: This study identifies potential high risk industries and occupations in the East Delta region of Egypt. Preventive measures should be targeted against such factors.