Developing a Proactive Research Agenda to Advance Nail Salon Worker Health, Safety, and Rights

Abstract

The participation of diverse stakeholders in the discussions allowed for cross-dialogue on a complex issue, helped to align different stakeholders as allies, and identified critical resources to addressing research gaps.

Reducing Chemical Exposures in Nail Salons through Owner and Worker Trainings: An Exploratory Intervention Study

“…Composed of public health and environmental advocates, community-based organizations, salon workers and owners, and allies from government agencies, the Collaborative proactively addresses health and safety concerns facing the salon worker community through an integrated approach using research, policy advocacy, and community outreach/education strategies [Quach et al, 2012]. Composed of public health and environmental advocates, community-based organizations, salon workers and owners, and allies from government agencies, the Collaborative proactively addresses health and safety concerns facing the salon worker community through an integrated approach using research, policy advocacy, and community outreach/education strategies [Quach et al, 2012].…”

Identifying Health and Safety Concerns in Southeast Asian Immigrant Nail Salon Workers

“…2,5 For instance, nearly 89% of the ingredients used in the cosmetics industry have not been evaluated for safety. 6 Although professional manicure work has only been recognized as a profession since the 1980s, it has recently become one of the fastest growing industries in the United States.…”

“…7 Several studies have found associations between longterm occupational exposures to toxic chemicals and specific self-reported health problems, including respiratory effects, skin problems, neuropsychological problems, and even spontaneous abortion. [1][2][3]5 In addition, the application of acrylic nails includes toxic materials such as polymethyl methacrylate acrylics, a mixture of a polymer powder and a liquid monomer (eg, ethyl methacrylate). The mixture, used to harden the artificial layers on the nail, has been reported to be associated with rhinitis and contact dermatitis.…”

The Burden of Cancer in Asian Americans: A Report of National Mortality Trends by Asian Ethnicity

“…As a single category, AAs exhibit tremendous heterogeneity, reflective not only of their >30 countries of origin and >100 languages, but also in their immigration trends, cultural diversity, and degree of acculturation, socioeconomic status (SES), insurance coverage, health beliefs, use of health services, diets, body size, and lifestyles (3–6). Because of clustering of AA ethnicities into certain occupations and neighborhoods, the environments where AAs live and work can also vary greatly (e.g., air pollution, workplace chemicals, built environment) (7, 8). All these factors can greatly impact the cancer mortality burden in these populations.…”