small for gestational age, which had an RRc of 1.24 (95 CI%: 1.10−1.41); low birth weight, which had an RRc of 1.21 (95% CI: 1.06−1.39); and embryonic and fetal losses, which had an RRc of 1.19 (95% CI: 1.03−1.38). Conclusions: This work confirms a weak increase in risk of some reproductive disorders in female hairdressers/cosmetologists. However, the evidence level is rather weak, and a causal association between job and reproductive outcomes cannot be asserted. (J Occup Health 2015; 57: 485−496)
Childcare providers are overwhelmingly women of childbearing age. Occupational risks in this sector include exposure to biological (infectious) or physical (standing, carrying loads) hazards, many of which are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as children with congenital infections, low birth weight or prematurity. Here, the authors examined literature on pregnancy outcomes and infectious hazards related to employment in daycare settings. Overall, 33 original studies (10 reporting pregnancy issues, 23 focusing on infectious risks) published in 1980-2018 were retained following a Medline search. Pregnancy issues in daycare workers have rarely been studied, and inconsistent risks of spontaneous abortion, congenital malformations and fetal growth retardation have been reported. Literature pertaining to infectious risks in daycare settings is extensive. The risk of a primary cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy was increased for daycare workers caring for >6 children and younger children, changing diapers ≥3 days/week, not wearing gloves when changing diapers, and having employment in daycare for ≤2 years. Personal factors (nulliparity, ethnicity) were also independent risk factors. Parvovirus B19 (B19V) infections appear to be related to employment in daycare, but also to having one's own children and an increased number of siblings. Consequently, the risk of a primary B19V infection during an outbreak is of most concern among younger nulliparous workers caring for large numbers of young infected children. Since the main occupational hazard is viral infection, feasible prevention strategies include improving workers' awareness, serological monitoring during pregnancy, educating on appropriate preventive measures, and ensuring age-appropriate immunization of children and staff in childcare facilities.
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