The effect of physical and chemical properties of swimming pool water and its close environment on the development of contact dermatitis in hydrotherapists.

Background: The association between physical and chemical parameters in swimming pool water and the incidence of contact dermatitis (CD) in hydrotherapists was studied.

Methods: Chemical and physical parameters characterizing the water and air environment of swimming pools conducting hydrotherapy program were recorded. Differences between the values of these parameters associated with affected and non-affected hydrotherapists employed in 39 pools were tested statistically.

Skin test results and self-reported symptom severity in allergic rhinitis: The role of psychological factors.

Background: In allergic conditions, the degree of skin test reactivity does not always correlate with the severity of clinical symptoms. Additional factors may contribute to the reported symptom severity.

Objectives: To investigate the association between the magnitude of the skin prick test (SPT) response and the reported symptom severity in patients with allergic rhinitis and the possible modifying role of psychological factors.

Correlation of work structure and job satisfaction among Israeli family physicians.

Background: Physicians need a professional environment that is conducive to efficient and satisfying work. Little has been published about the effect of work structure on the satisfaction that family physicians derive from their work.

Objectives: To assess the structure and the positive and negative job components of family physicians in Israel, as well as the effect of these components on their satisfaction with their work.

Negative association between reported life events and cardiovascular disease risk factors in employed men: the CORDIS Study. Cardiovascular Occupational Risk Factors Determination in Israel.

There is evidence of a link between stressful life events and risk of cardiovascular disease, but the pathway has not been fully explored. The present study of 1859 employed men tested the association between reported intensity of life events and blood pressure and serum lipid levels, risk behaviors, and psychological distress symptoms. The findings revealed a striking disparity in the outcomes.

A graduate course in work site health promotion for occupational health practitioners.

This paper describes the rationale, teaching strategies, outcomes, and a 6-month follow-up of an academic course in work site health promotion, in which 35 occupational health practitioners participated. The one-semester course was part of the Masters in Science program in occupational health at the Tel-Aviv University Medical School. The primary goals of the study were to teach the theoretical bases of work site health promotion and their application to specific health needs, and to train better role models for employees.