February/March 2013 (vol. 09/5)

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Miscarriage systematic review

A systematic review and meta-analysis finds only small or non-significant increased risks of miscarriage associated with physical working conditions (30 included papers). Pooled risk estimates for miscarriage were significantly higher for those working fixed nightshifts (relative risk 1.51; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.27–1.78) but not for those working three-rotating shifts. After excluding low-quality studies, there was no increased risk associated with prolonged standing (at least six hours a day) or long working hours. Two prospective studies showed a marginally raised risk of miscarriage with higher physical workload. The authors say there is no current case to impose mandatory restrictions in the studied risk areas, but women might be advised against work that entails high-level exposures.

 

Scandinavian Journal of Work Environment and Health 2012; online first: doi: 10.5271/sjweh.3337.  http://www.sjweh.fi/show_abstract.php?abstract_id=3337

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Occupational Health at Work February/March 2013 (vol. 09/5) pp40