Journal of Preventive Medicine Association of Thailand

Mental health and defense mechanism among waste collectors under Bangkok Metropolitan Administration

2025-08-05T13:35:43+07:00

Objective: To examine mental health status, defense mechanisms and factors associated with the mental health of waste collectors under Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. Methods: This research is a cross-sectional analytic study, with a sample of 265 waste collectors under Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, selected through multistage sampling. Data collection was conducted between August and October 2024 using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised sections on personal factors, work-related factors, The Defense Style Questionnaire-60 (DSQ-60) Thai version and Thai Mental Health Indicator version 2007 (TMHI-55). Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including bivariate analysis and multivariate analysis using multiple logistic regression analysis. Crude odds ratio (cOR), Adjusted odd ratio (aOR) and 95% Confidence Interval were reported. Results: The study showed that 39.6% of waste collectors had an under average mental health. The multiple logistic regression analysis found that the associated factors of the under average mental health were the use of image distorting defense mechanisms (aOR = 3.50, 95% CI: 1.64–7.46), the use of affect regulating defense mechanisms (aOR = 2.86, 95% CI: 1.49–5.48), educational level (aOR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.12–3.26), and satisfaction with work schedules
(aOR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.04–4.73). Conclusion: Organizations should implement preventive and monitoring measures for mental health by establishing policies that mandate annual mental health screenings and a reporting system for psychological issues to supervisors. Additionally, organizations should promote mental well-being through initiatives such as stress management education. Strengthening psychological resilience is also essential, which can be achieved by training staff to use positive defense mechanisms and optimize the work environment to mitigate stressors. Furthermore, organizations should foster employees’ skills and potential through lifelong learning, introduce flexible work schedules, and provide education on time management to enhance work-life balance, ultimately minimizing the overall impact on mental health.

Ergonomics Risk Assessment of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Non-Professional Healthcare Workers at Tertiary Care Center

2025-06-05T13:58:51+07:00

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the ergonomic risks and identify high-risk factors working associated with postures contribute to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among non-professional healthcare workers involved in patient handling and transfer tasks. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 200 non-professional healthcare workers. Data collection included the Musculoskeletal Functional Questionnaire (MSFQ) to assess the severity and frequency of MSDs, the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) to evaluate ergonomic risks, and an occupational health risk metric to assess the risk of MSDs. Results: The majority of participants were female (66.00%), with 43.50% aged between 19–29 years and an average age of 33.73 years (SD = 9.16). The most commonly reported MSD symptoms were in the lower back and feet/ankles (78.00%), followed by the shoulders (76.50%) and neck (75.00%). REBA assessments indicated that 60.50% of participants had a high-risk level (Level 3), requiring immediate intervention. Regarding lower back risk levels, 43.00% of participants were classified as high risk, necessitating ergonomic improvements, while 28.23% were classified as very high risk, requiring urgent intervention. Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of MSD risks among non-professional healthcare workers engaged in patient handling, primarily due to physically demanding tasks. The implementation of targeted preventive strategies, including ergonomic training programs and health surveillance systems, is essential to mitigate the risk work-related MSDs and reduce occupational risks in this population.

Factors Related to Visual Fatigue among Shift Workers in Automotive and Electronic Component Factory in Pathum Thani Province

2025-08-07T08:59:25+07:00

Objective: The study aimed to examine the shift workers’ visual fatigue and factors associated with visual fatigue among shift workers in automotive and electronic component manufacturing in Pathum Thani Province. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study. The sample consisted of 119 shift workers. The data was collected using questionnaires and critical flicker frequency (CFF). Data were analyzed by using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Chi-square, and Fisher’s exact test. Results: The results found that most of the sample group was male with an average age of 32.3 years. Most of the sample group drank caffeinated beverages, slept less than or equal to 7 hours/day, had an average work experience of 6 years, worked the morning shift from 07.20 am to 4.20 pm, and took an average of 4 breaks during work. It was also found that 45 shift workers were visual fatigue from work (37.8%). The results of the study on factors related to visual fatigue of shift workers found that age (p-value < 0.001), caffeine consumption (p-value = 0.047), hours of sleep (p-value = 0.030), work experience (p-value = 0.021), shift work (p-value < 0.001), and the number of breaks during work (p-value < 0.001), were significantly related to visual fatigue of shift workers (p-value < 0.05). Conclusion: Relevant agencies should identify strategies to prevent visual fatigue among shift workers by providing adequate rest periods during work, training on health care, and encouraging employees to have sufficient rest after work.

Mental Health Literacy and Associated Factors in Thai Military Medical S

2025-07-04T09:09:20+07:00

Objective: To assess mental health literacy (MHL) level and its associated factors among Thai military medical students. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 406 second- to sixth-year military medical students using the Thai Mental Health Literacy Scale (TMHLS). Data analysis included descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Results: The average MHL score among participants was moderate (119.05 ± 11.07). Awareness of mental health issues was relatively high, while knowledge about seeking professional help, self-care, information-seeking, and attitudes toward mental health services were moderate. Factors influencing MHL included higher-year students (p < 0.001) and female students (p < 0.001) score higher. while those who are not living with family or living alone scored lower (p = 0.004). Taking psychiatric courses (p = 0.001), reading mental health books (p < 0.001), and personal experiences with mental illness (p < 0.001) were linked to higher scores. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for structured mental health education to improve MHL among medical students. Efforts should focus on reducing stigma, enhancing positive attitudes, and promoting help-seeking behaviors.

Work-Related Fatigue and Associated Factors Among Registered Nurses in a Super Tertiary Hospital in Thailand

2025-06-24T10:19:07+07:00

Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of work-related fatigue among registered nurses in a super tertiary hospital in Thailand. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using systematic random sampling of 220 registered nurses in a super tertiary hospital. The adaptive Thai version of the Occupational Fatigue Exhaustion Recovery Scale (OFER-15) was utilized. Data analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The prevalence of chronic fatigue, acute fatigue, and intershift recovery among registered nurses was 48.20%, 60.90%, and 53.20%, respectively. Chronic fatigue was significantly associated with depression, fair health status, a slight to high intention to resign, and insufficient experienced staff (p < 0.05). Conversely, alcohol consumption was inversely associated with chronic fatigue. Acute fatigue was significantly associated with depression, fair health status, a slight to high intention to resign, moderately repetitive tasks, longer tenure in the current position (2–10 years), insufficient experienced staff, and poor workplace policies (p < 0.05). Intershift recovery was significantly negatively associated with depression, insomnia, a moderate to high intention to resign, and moderately repetitive tasks (p < 0.05). Conclusion: These findings highlight the role of physical-psychological, organizational, and occupational factors associated with chronic and acute fatigue, as well as intershift recovery among nurses. Strengthening workplace policies, ensuring adequate staffing, and promoting mental health support may help reduce fatigue and improve nurses' quality of life.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Medical Unfitness among Seafarers in Thailand

2025-05-13T13:59:18+07:00

Objective: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with medical unfitness among seafarers in Thailand. Methods: The study design was an analytical case-control study utilized secondary data from the online seafarer medical certificate database, which contains the results of seafarers’ medical fitness examination across Thailand. Data were collected from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2024. The study sample consisted of 67 seafarers who failed (Case) and 201 seafarers who passed (Control) the medical fitness examination. Factors associated with medical unfitness were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression analysis and the prevalence of medical conditions contributing to medical unfitness was analyzed by proportion test. Results: The statistically significant factors associated with medical unfitness among seafarers were having a BMI in the obese range (³25.00 kg/m²), working in the engine department and serving on bulk carriers or tankers. Obesity was associated with medical unfitness, with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.96 (95% CI: 1.18 – 7.45) compared with normal weight. Employment in the engine department was associated with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.46 (95% CI: 1.24 – 4.85) relative to the deck department. Service on bulk carriers or tankers was associated with adjusted odds ratios of 8.79 (95% CI: 1.56 – 49.44) and 5.93 (95% CI: 1.67 – 21.01), respectively, compared with container ships. Diseases of the circulatory system were the leading cause of unfitness, accounting for 23.9% of cases. Conclusion: Factors associated with medical unfitness among seafarers are linked to work-related stress and unhealthy behaviors, leading to obesity, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of medical unfitness. Therefore, health promotion should focus on lifestyle modification and dietary control, along with physical activity suited to the onboard environment and improvements in working conditions, workload and shift schedules.

The Impact of Noise on Hearing Performance among Employees in a Metal Can Manufacturing Factory in Samut Prakan Province, Thailand

2025-07-17T13:19:52+07:00

Objective: To examine the level of hearing performance and the impact of noise on the hearing performance of employees in a metal can manufacturing factory in Samut Prakan Province. Methods: This study employs a cross-sectional descriptive research design involving a sample of 189 employees from a metal can manufacturing factory in Samut Prakan Province. Data were collected through questionnaires, sound level meters, and audiometer. Data analysis was performed using a statistical software package, which included descriptive statistics and inferential statistics such as the Chi-Square test. Results: The majority of employees exhibited abnormal hearing levels, with 62 individuals affected. Among them, 59.7% had impairments in low-frequency hearing, while 40.3% experienced high-frequency hearing impairments. Factors influencing employees' hearing capacity were categorized into two groups: (1) risky behavioral exposure to loud noise in daily life, which significantly affected low-frequency hearing (p-value = 0.022), and (2) work tenure and experience of noise exposure in the workplace, which significantly affected high-frequency hearing (p-value < 0.001 and 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: This study highlights that exposure to industrial noise impacts hearing ability at different frequencies. Specifically, noise from machinery in metal can manufacturing factories predominantly damages high-frequency hearing receptors, an effect that may not be immediately noticeable in daily life. Employees may remain unaware of their hearing impairment unless assessed using specialized equipment. Therefore, employers should implement regular audiometric testing for employees at least once a year, based on their risk level, to monitor and prevent hearing deterioration.

The Proportion of Work-Related Asthma among Tertiary Care Hospital Workers Exposed to Cleaning Agents

2025-08-13T10:02:10+07:00

Objective: Work-related asthma (WRA) is a common type of asthma among the working-age population. Patients with WRA often experience symptoms that impair job performance. Cleaning agents are one of the irritant agents that can cause WRA. While cleaners are typically exposed, other jobs may also be at risk of similar exposure. This study aims to determine the proportion of WRA among hospital workers exposed to cleaning agents. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted at Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University. A total of 341 healthcare workers who reported exposure to any cleaning agents were included in the study. The European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) questionnaire was used to screen for asthma-like symptoms. Participants were further assessed and monitored using Mini-Wright peak flow meters, with results analyzed by the OASYS program. Results: The results showed that 27 participants exhibited asthma-like symptoms. Of these, 19 (5.5%) out of 341 participants were classified as having possible WRA, while 8 (2.3%) were classified as probable WRA. No participants were classified as definite WRA. Among those with symptoms, all had either direct or indirect exposure to cleaning agents in the workplace. The clinical symptoms were consistent with irritant-induced asthma resulting from chronic low-concentration exposure. There was no statistically significant difference in the risk of WRA between those with direct and indirect exposure (OR 3.24; 95% CI: 0.84–2.11). Conclusion: Work-related asthma (WRA) can be caused by irritant compounds in cleaning agents, which are suspected to be a primary cause due to chronic low-concentration exposure. Physicians should prioritize obtaining detailed exposure histories and conducting early screenings to enable timely intervention. The most effective strategy for mitigating the risk of WRA is to minimize workers' exposure to cleaning agents by implementing the hierarchy of controls. Selecting non-irritant cleaning agents, or at least those with lower irritant properties, is essential for reducing occupational respiratory risks.

The Development of an Intelligence Report System for NCDs Risk Screening from Annual Health Check-Up Results of Outpatients

2025-06-20T16:00:40+07:00

Objective: the objectives are to study the requirements for developing an intelligence report system for screening the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) based on annual health check-up data of outpatients, to develop the system, and to evaluate user satisfaction. Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods research approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Qualitative data were collected through focus group interviews with 11 participants to explore user requirements. User stories and acceptance criteria were then created from these requirements to guide the development of the intelligence report system. An intelligence report system was developed using the agile methodology. Quantitative data were collected through a user satisfaction assessment conducted after a 4-week period of user testing involving 27 participants. All data were collected at Fort Surasi hospital. Results: The qualitative approach revealed the need for an intelligence report system to reduce duplication of human work, such as screening and analyzing annual health data according to the agreed criteria. The quantitative approach showed that after a 4-week trial of the intelligence report system, users’ satisfaction was rated as 'highly satisfied' in all areas. Conclusion: The intelligence report system for screening the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) based on annual health check-up data of outpatients was developed using the agile methodology and Tableau Cloud. After the development of the intelligent report, staff no longer needed to print examination results or count data manually, consistent with the expected outcomes of agile development, such as reducing errors, delays, and redundant work. Work efficiency could be improved by utilizing the information from the intelligent report to support decision-making, health data management, create health promotion activities and the tracking of personnel to participate in health promotion activities.

Effectiveness of a Pharmaceutical Care Program for Hypertensive Patients Admitted to the Homeward Care System, Bueng Kan Hospital

2025-06-09T11:26:14+07:00

Objective: This quasi-experimental study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a pharmaceutical care program for patients with hypertension receiving care through the Homeward system. The objectives were to compare the mean values of : (1) patients’ knowledge of hypertension treatment and medication use, (2) patients’ self-care practices and medication adherence, and (3) blood pressure levels before and after receiving the program. Methods: The sample consisted of 36 hypertensive patients admitted to the Homeward system, selected through purposive sampling. Participants received a structured pharmaceutical care program consisting of three key components: initial assessment, education and counseling, and follow-up. Research instruments included a knowledge questionnaire on hypertension and medication use, a medication adherence behavior assessment, and blood pressure measurements. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, specifically the paired t-test. Results: The results showed a statistically significant improvement in patients’ knowledge scores after participating in the program (from a mean of 9.4 to 12.8, p < 0.001). Similarly, patients’ self-care and medication adherence scores increased from a mean of 33.4 to 42.5. Additionally, 94.4% of patients achieved controlled blood pressure levels following the intervention. Conclusion: These findings indicate that the pharmaceutical care program effectively enhanced patients’ knowledge and behaviors related to hypertension management and contributed to improved blood pressure control in patients under the Homeward care system. The results support the continued integration of pharmacists in multidisciplinary teams to ensure sustainable and effective management of chronic diseases in community settings.

Agreement of Intraocular Pressure Measurements between Ophthalmologist and Ophthalmic Nurse Using Goldmann Applanation and Icare Rebound Tonometry Methods in Eye Clinic of Phetchabun Hospital

2025-04-07T14:40:57+07:00

Objective: This study compared the consistency of intraocular pressure measurements between the iCare rebound tonometer, measured by ophthalmic nurses, and the standard Goldmann Applanation Tonometry (GAT), measured by ophthalmologists. Methods: Prospective Cross-sectional hospital based study. Results: This study enrolled 225 eyes from 113 patients to compare intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements obtained using rebound tonometry (iCare IC200) and Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess inter-method reliability. Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, along with Bland-Altman analysis, was employed to evaluate the relationship and agreement between the two measurement methods. The findings indicated excellent agreement between iCare tonometry and GAT. Furthermore, corneal thickness did not significantly influence the consistency of IOP measurements for either method. Conclusion: This study indicates that the iCare tonometer is a reliable tool for measuring intraocular pressure, comparable to the standard GAT method, and may be beneficial for glaucoma screening in the community and for measuring intraocular pressure in situations where the GAT method is limited.

Wellcation & Wellness Tourism : การท่องเที่ยวเชิงสุขภาพในประเทศไทย

2025-08-30T14:37:16+07:00

Wellcation หมายถึง รูปแบบการท่องเที่ยวแบบใหม่ที่ผสมผสานระหว่าง Wellness (สุขภาวะ) กับ Vacation ( วันหยุด ) Wellcation เป็นการท่องเที่ยวรูปแบบใหม่ ที่เน้นการพักผ่อนควบคู่ไปกับการดูแลสุขภาพกายและใจ แบบองค์รวม โดยมีกิจกรรมหลากหลาย อาทิเช่น การนวด การทำสปา การตรวจสุขภาพเชิงป้องกัน การรับบริการการแพทย์แผนไทย การบำบัดด้วยสมุนไพร การฝึกโยคะ และการดูแลสุขภาพจิต เช่นการฝึกสมาธิ โดยมุ่งหวังให้ สุขภาพกายและ สุขภาพใจ ดีขึ้นอย่างยั่งยืน

Health Conditions for Medical Assessment in Commercial Drivers

2025-06-20T10:49:48+07:00

This academic review article focuses on the importance of health conditions or medical requirements for public transport drivers as established by the Department of Disease Control through Memorandum of Agreement between the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Transport in Thailand. The essential criteria comprise physical fitness such as vision, sensory impairments, and the management of chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, as well as acute medical conditions that pose risks on the road, especially epilepsy, which can cause sudden unconsciousness, which is a significant cause of vehicle-related accidents. Additionally, the assessment includes mental health evaluation and the screening of alcohol and substance use. The authors have compiled assessment criteria from various countries to demonstrate different approaches to these requirements. These health considerations play a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both public transport drivers and the public.

Rehabilitation of Excessive Wear and Loss of Vertical Dimension with Temporary Acrylic-Based Overlay Removable partial denture: 2 Cases Report

2025-07-17T11:46:21+07:00

The oral rehabilitation of patients with severe tooth wear and loss of vertical dimension is a complex process requiring multidisciplinary knowledge for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This involves comprehensive intraoral and extraoral examinations to determine the causes of tooth wear and assess vertical dimension loss, leading to an individualized treatment plan and appropriate selection of restorative materials and prosthetic designs. Various approaches to vertical dimension restoration include direct restorations, crowns, onlays, dental implants, fixed prosthesis, and removable denture. The primary objective of such rehabilitation is to restore an optimal vertical dimension, improve masticatory function, and enhance esthetics. This case report presents two patients who underwent oral rehabilitation using an acrylic-based overlay removable partial denture. Following a thorough diagnosis, the treatment plan was collaboratively developed with the patient, considering factors such as treatment duration, minimal alteration to the oral cavity, ease of repair, and suitability for patients with financial and health constraints. Despite its advantages, the Acrylic-based overlay removable partial denture requires careful maintenance, as it covers multiple teeth, which may impact oral hygiene. After prosthesis placement, the patient experienced improved masticatory function and esthetics. Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor oral health and maintain the integrity of the remaining dentition and periodontal structures.

A Cluster of Zika Virus Disease in General Hospital, Chonburi, Thailand: Case Report

2025-06-05T13:28:38+07:00

We report a cluster of Zika virus infection in one 35-year-old female presenting with fever, arthralgia, non-purulent conjunctivitis, and maculopapular rash, and her 65-year-old mother also presented with the same complaints. The patient has no history of traveling. She reported multiple mosquito bites; her residence is near the forest. The infection with Zika virus was confirmed by RT-PCR in urine. The results were reported in July 2024. After receiving the results, the office of disease prevention and control region 6 conducted a field investigation at the patient’s residence and workplace. Residents in the surveillance zone were provided with health education, including information about diseases and symptoms that require medical attention, as well as strategies for eliminating mosquito breeding sites. The survey found no pregnant women or additional symptomatic cases within the area. The infectious control unit was under surveillance, and prevention and control measures for the notifiable disease were maintained for 28 days without the emergence of new cases.

Health Hazards and Medical Surveillances in Firefighters

2025-08-07T14:45:32+07:00

Firefighting is an occupation that involves various health risks, including physical, chemical, ergonomic, and psychosocial hazards, as well as exposure to dangerous environments. These risks can lead to physical and mental health problems and increase the likelihood of work-related injuries. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for ensuring firefighter safety. Additionally, regular health check-ups are necessary. However, in Thailand, there are still limitations in medical monitoring for firefighters, which has not received sufficient attention. This study aims to emphasize the importance of medical surveillance and the need to develop appropriate medical monitoring programs for firefighters based on the specific risks associated with their work. Furthermore, the goal is to ensure that firefighters can work safely, maintain good health, and achieve the physical fitness required for their profession.