Epidemiology and Health

Volume 46; 2024

Letter

Letter to the Editor: Mediating effect of lower extremity muscle on the relationship between obesity and osteoarthritis in middle-aged and elderly women in Korea: based on the 2009-2011 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Jinyue Chen, Haozhu Chen; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024091. Published online November 22, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024091

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Original Articles

Associations between taxi drivers’ aggressive driving behavior and sleep, cognition, and psychological factors in Korea: negative binomial regression analysis: Jong Sun Ok, Hyeongsu Kim, Soo Young An, Mi Young Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024085. Published online October 17, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024085

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Aggressive driving behavior is a significant predictor of traffic accidents. In particular, the driving behavior of taxi drivers is a critical issue that can impact the safety of both drivers and passengers. This study explored the sleep, cognitive, and psychological factors associated with taxi drivers’ aggressive driving behavior.
METHODS
In this descriptive study, a self-report questionnaire was distributed to taxi drivers in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province from August 22, 2022 to December 30, 2022. In all, 992 respondents were analyzed using negative binomial regression.
RESULTS
The mean score for aggressive driving behavior among taxi drivers was 13.76±11.47, with sub-scores of 3.46±3.48 for lapse, 3.31±3.16 for error, and 6.99±5.76 for violation. Contributing factors included sleep disorders, cognitive decline, and psychological factors. A higher score for aggressive driving behavior was associated with an increased severity of insomnia and daytime sleepiness, higher rates of cognitive failure, and elevated levels of depression and stress.
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings highlight the importance of addressing the sleep, cognitive, and psychological factors associated with aggressive driving behaviors among taxi drivers. Further study is needed to evaluate the causal relationship. In addition, it is imperative to develop educational programs and interventions to manage these issues effectively.; Summary

Korean summary
택시 기사의 안전운전 행동은 교통사고, 운전자와 승객의 안전과 연결된 이슈이다. 기존 연구에서 택시 기사의 가파른 고령화와 열악한 직업 환경 등이 과격한 운전행위의 영향요인으로 보고하고 있다. 이 연구에서 택시기사의 수면, 인지기능 및 심리적인 요인도 과격한 운전행위와 관련이 있음으로 보여주고 있다.

Key Message
It is important to predict taxi drivers’ aggressive driving behavior to decrease the traffic accidents that result from such be- havior. Previous studies have shown that general and occupational characteristics have a significant impact on aggressive driving behavior, whereas research on the psychological factors is limited. Our comprehensive investigation of the psycho- logical factors as well as the sleep factors and cognitive functions of taxi drivers (as part of a rapidly aging population) showed a significant relationship between these factors and aggressive driving behavior.

The prevention and response to infectious diseases in long-term care facilities in Korea: a nationwide survey: Sun Hee Na, Joong Sik Eom, Sun Bean Kim, Hyung Jin Yoon, So Yeon Yoo, Kyeong Sook Cha, Jong Rim Choi, Ji Youn Choi, Si Hyeon Han, Jin Ju Park, Tark Kim, Jacob Lee; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024084. Published online October 17, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024084

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are communal environments for patients with chronic diseases or older adults, making them particularly susceptible to significant harm during infectious disease outbreaks. Nonetheless, LTCFs have historically been subject to less stringent infection prevention and control (IPC) mandates. This study aimed to assess the current state of LTCFs and to develop an IPC system tailored for these facilities following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
METHODS
We conducted an online survey of 11,366 LTCFs in Korea from December 30, 2022 to January 20, 2023, to evaluate the components of IPC in LTCFs. The infectious diseases targeted for IPC included COVID-19, influenza, and scabies. Additionally, we compared institution-based and home-based long-term care insurance facilities.
RESULTS
Overall, 3,537 (31.1%) LTCFs responded to the survey, comprising 1,819 (51.4%) institution-based and 1,718 (48.6%) home-based facilities. A majority (87.4%, 2,376/2,720) of these facilities experienced COVID-19 outbreaks. However, only 42.2% of home-based facilities, in contrast to 90.6% of institution-based facilities, were equipped to manage concurrent COVID-19 cases. Similarly, while 92.1% of institution-based facilities were capable of managing influenza, only 50.5% of home-based facilities could do the same. The incidence of scabies was significantly higher in institution-based facilities than in home-based ones (26.1 vs. 4.3%). Additionally, 88.7% of institution-based facilities managed scabies cases effectively, compared to only 42.1% of home-based facilities.
CONCLUSIONS
Approximately half of the LTCFs had a basic capacity to respond to infectious diseases. However, there were differences in response capabilities between institution-based facilities and home-based facilities.; Summary

Korean summary
장기요양기관을 대상으로 실태조사가 시행되었습니다. 50% 기관에서 감염병에 대한 기본 대응능력을 가지고 있었지만 시설급여기관과 재가급여기관 사이 대응능력에 차이가 있었습니다.

Key Message
A survey of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) was conducted. Fifty per cent of LTCFs had a basic capacity to respond to infectious diseases. However, there were differences in response capacity between institution-based and home-based facilities.

Analyzing the dynamics of complicated and uncomplicated appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic in Seoul, Korea: a multifaceted time series approach: Kiook Baek, Chulyong Park; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024081. Published online October 1, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024081

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and associated control strategies on the incidence of appendicitis in Seoul, using data from 2018 to 2020 from Korea’s National Health Insurance.
METHODS
We analyzed records of total, complicated, and uncomplicated appendicitis cases, as well as the ratio of complicated to uncomplicated appendicitis, using natural spline and piecewise regression models to identify trends and breakpoints. Bayesian structural time-series (BSTS) models were used to evaluate the causal impact of social distancing on appendicitis incidences.
RESULTS
The spline regression analysis indicated decreasing trends in both total and uncomplicated appendicitis cases. Conversely, the incidence of complicated appendicitis and the ratio of complicated to uncomplicated cases increased. Breakpoints for a decline in uncomplicated appendicitis and a rise in the ratio occurred at 31 weeks in 2020 (95% confidence interval [CI], 23.2 to 38.8) and at 33.9 weeks (95% CI, 28.3 to 39.6), respectively. The BSTS model demonstrated a 7.8% reduction in total appendicitis cases (95% credible interval [CrI], -12.1 to -3.3). It also showed a 17.4% decrease in uncomplicated cases (95% CrI, -22.2 to -12.3) and increases of 12.8% (95% CrI, 4.9 to 22.0) in complicated cases and 39.0% (95% CrI, 27.0 to 53.3) in the ratio of complicated to uncomplicated appendicitis.
CONCLUSIONS
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a decrease in both total and uncomplicated appendicitis cases, while the number of complicated cases increased. Reduced medical visits likely accounted for these changes. Strategies are needed to manage changes in disease pathophysiology resulting from altered healthcare utilization during health crises.; Summary

Korean summary
-여러 연구에서 COVID-19 유행기간에 급성 충수염의 역학에 대한 변화가 있었다는 보고가 있어 국내 건강보험 청구 자료를 사용하여 확인하고자 하였다. -시계열 데이터로 역학의 변동 시점에 대한 분석을 수행한 결과, 유의미한 합병증이 없는 충수염의 감소와, 합병증을 동반한 충수염의 비율 변동이 시작된 시점은 사회적 거리두기를 한 시점과 유사한 것으로 나타났다. -사회적 거리두기를 한 시점 전후의 급성 충수염 역학을 비교하였을 때, 총 급성 충수염 및 합병증이 없는 충수염은 감소하는 경향이, 합병증을 동반한 충수염은 증가하는 경향이 유의하게 보였다.

Key Message
Several studies have reported changes in the epidemiology of acute appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic; this study aimed to confirm these findings using national health insurance claims data. Time-series analysis of the epidemiological shift points showed that the decrease in uncomplicated appendicitis cases and the shift in the proportion of complicated appendicitis cases occurred around the time social distancing measures were implemented. When comparing the epidemiology of acute appendicitis before and after the onset of social distancing, there was a significant decrease in the incidence of total acute appendicitis and uncomplicated cases, with a significant increase in complicated appendicitis cases.

Systematic Review

Adverse health effects of climate change and air pollution in people with disabilities: a systematic review: Nakyung Rhim, Seohyun Lee, Kyung-Hwa Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024080. Published online September 27, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024080

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
Global warming and air pollution adversely affect the health of the entire human population, particularly older adults, people with disabilities (PWDs), and children. In this systematic review, we investigated the adverse health effects of climate change and air pollution in PWDs. We conducted a comprehensive literature search of the PubMed database using the terms “disab*,” “air pollution,” and “climate change” on July 4, 2023, and August 8, 2023 and searched the Web of Science (WOS) database on December 28, 2023. We identified 425 and 1,169 studies on climate change cited in PubMed and WOS, respectively, as well as 333 studies on air pollution in PubMed and 495 studies on air pollution in WOS. The studies were classified by type of exposure, and full-text screening was conducted to confirm that the population, intervention or exposure, comparator, outcome statement, and inclusion and exclusion criteria were met. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of the included cohort and case-control studies and for data analysis. In extreme temperatures, PWDs experienced higher rates of injury, heat-related illness, functional impairment, heart disease, mental disorders, and mortality than people who were non-disabled (ND). Exposure to air pollution resulted in higher rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease, poststroke neurological and functional disability, and mortality in PWDs than in people who were ND. Therefore, because PWDs were more affected by climate change and air pollution than people who were ND, sensitive policies and preparedness measures should be developed for PWDs.; Summary

Korean summary
전체 인구, 특히 취약 계층의 건강은 기후 변화와 대기 오염으로 인해 부정적인 영향을 받을 수 있습니다. 본 체계적 고찰 연구는 장애인이 비장애인에 비해 환경적 요인에 노출되어 더 심각한 신체적, 정신적 건강 문제를 겪는다는 것을 보여줍니다.

Key Message
The health of the entire human population, especially vulnerable people, might be negatively impacted by climate change and air pollution. This systematic review study implies that people with disabilities (PWDs) suffer more severe physical and mental health consequences from exposure to environmental challenges compared to non-disabled individuals.

Original Articles

The role of supervisor support in the association between night work and depressive symptoms: a gender-stratified analysis of 22,422 full-time wage workers in Korea: Hee Won Kim, Ji-Hwan Kim, Garin Lee, Hye-Lin Lee, Hayoung Lee, Seung-Sup Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024079. Published online September 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024079

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the relationship between night work, supervisor support, and depressive symptoms among full-time wage workers, with a focus on gender differences.
METHODS
A nationwide sample of 22,422 full-time wage workers from the Sixth Korean Working Conditions Survey (2020-2021) was analyzed. Experiences of night work were categorized into 5 groups based on the number of night work days per month: 0, 1-5, 6-10, 11-15, and 16-31. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the 5-item World Health Organization Well-Being Index. Supervisor support was assessed with 5 items.
RESULTS
Workers who engaged in 1-5 days (prevalence ratio [PR], 1.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12 to 1.36) and 6- 10 days (PR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.30) of night work per month exhibited a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms than those without night work. After stratifying by supervisor support levels, workers with 1-5 days, 6-10 days, and 11-15 days of night work per month were more likely to experience depressive symptoms compared to those without night work in the low supervisor support group. In contrast, no association was found between night work (≥6 days) and depressive symptoms in the high supervisor support group. Furthermore, gender differences were notable: female workers with 6-10 days (PR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.23 to 1.70), and 11-15 days (PR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.90) of night work per month exhibited a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms, whereas their male counterparts did not. This pattern of gender difference was also found among those with low supervisor support.
CONCLUSIONS
Supervisor support may mitigate the adverse effects of night work on depressive symptoms among full-time wage workers, with differences manifested across genders.; Summary

Korean summary
야간 노동을 하는 사람들의 숫자가 급격히 늘어나고 있다. 이들이 겪는 여러 정신건강의 어려움이 사회적으로 문제가 되고 있지만, 그와 관련해 상사의 사회적 지지가 어떠한 영향을 주고 또 그 영향이 성별에 따라 어떻게 다른 지 충분히 연구된 바 없다. 한국의 6 차 근로환경조사를 분석한 결과, 한달에 1-10 일 야간 노동을 하는 사람들에게서 우울증상이 높게 나타났다. 성별 층화 분석했을 때, 한달에 6-15 일 야간 근무를 하는 여성이 상사의 사회적 지지를 받지 못할 경우 우울 증상이 특히 두드러지는 것으로 나타났습니다. 이번 연구는 야간 노동이 정신 건강에 미치는 부정적 영향을 확인하고, 직장에서의 사회적 지지와 건강한 조직 문화를 조성할 필요성을 보여준다.

Key Message
Night workers play a crucial role in society yet face unique mental health challenges. While a growing body of research have focused on their health problems, the role of supervisor support remains unexplored. Using a nationally representative dataset of workers in Korea, we found that night work was associated with depressive symptoms, especially for those working 1- 10 nights monthly and for females conducting 6-15 days of night work. Strong supervisor support may modify these effects. Our findings underscore the need for organizations to acknowledge the adverse mental health consequences of night work and to foster a supportive workplace culture.

Temporal trends in the prevalence, incidence, and mortality of cardiac amyloidosis in Korea over 12 years: You-Jung Choi, Yun Jin Choi, Jieun Lee, Jah Yeon Choi, Geum Joon Cho, Jin Oh Na; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024078. Published online September 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024078

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the prevalence, incidence, and prognosis of cardiac amyloidosis (CA) in Korea.
METHODS
This retrospective nationwide population-based study used the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service databases between 2008 and 2020. All patients diagnosed with amyloidosis were included, and those with a diagnosis of heart failure or cardiomyopathy were classified as having CA. Both the special code for amyloidosis (V121), which enables coverage of medical expenses, and the corresponding International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision codes for amyloidosis (E850- E854, E858, E859) were used to improve the reliability of amyloidosis diagnosis.
RESULTS
Among 2,239 patients with amyloidosis, 758 met the criteria for CA (mean age, 64.4±11.9 years; 59.1% male). The mean age of patients with CA increased from 59.5±14.7 years in 2009 to 68.1±13.9 years in 2020. The incidence and prevalence increased from 0.09 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.06 to 0.12) to 0.22 (95% CI, 0.18 to 0.27) per 100,000 person-years and 0.20 (95% CI, 0.16 to 0.25) to 1.30 (95% CI, 0.12 to 0.42) per 100,000 persons, respectively (all p<0.001). Patients with light-chain CA showed similar trends. In-hospital mortality decreased from 17.3% (95% CI, 9.23 to 29.6) to 6.10% (95% CI, 4.21 to 8.48) between 2009 and 2020. While age-specific in-hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients aged ≥70 years (p=0.004), no significant age-specific difference in in-hospital mortality was observed in patients with CA aged <70 years (p=0.981).
CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence and incidence of CA have increased in Korea, predominantly affecting older individuals, particularly males. Notably, in-hospital mortality decreased significantly.; Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 2009년부터 2020년까지 한국에서의 심장 아밀로이드증의 역학을 조사했으며, 유병률과 발생률이 시간이 지남에 따라 유의미하게 증가하고, 환자의 평균 연령도 높아지는 추세를 보였습니다. 특히, 전체 환자에서 입원 중 사망률이 크게 감소하며 치료와 관리가 개선되었음을 보여주었으나, 70세 이하에서는 심장 아밀로이드증으로 인한 사망이 나이에 따른 차이를 보이지 않아 조기 발견 및 적극적인 치료의 중요성이 강조되었습니다.

Key Message
This study investigated the epidemiology of cardiac amyloidosis in South Korea from 2009 to 2020, revealing a significant increase in prevalence and incidence over time, along with a rise in the median age of patients. Notably, in-hospital mortality decreased substantially across all patients, reflecting improvements in treatment and management. However, among patients under 70 years of age, mortality due to cardiac amyloidosis showed no significant age-related differences, underscoring the importance of early detection and proactive treatment.

The associations of cardiovascular and lifestyle factors with mortality from chronic kidney disease as the underlying cause: the JACC study: Shuai Guo, Tomoko Sankai, Kazumasa Yamagishi, Tomomi Kihara, Akiko Tamakoshi, Hiroyasu Iso, for the JACC Study Group; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024077. Published online September 13, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024077

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Abstract PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study investigated conventional cardiovascular and lifestyle risk factors affecting mortality from chronic kidney disease as the underlying cause in the general Japanese population.
METHODS
We conducted an 18.8-year follow-up study of 44,792 men and 61,522 women aged 40-79 from the Japan Collaborative Cohort Study for Evaluation of Cancer Risk between 1986 and 1990. Cox proportional hazard models were used to analyze the association between risk factors and mortality from chronic kidney disease.
RESULTS
During the follow-up period, 373 participants (185 men and 188 women) died from chronic kidney disease. A body mass index of ≥27.0 kg/m2 (hazard ratio [HR], 2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19 to 3.36 for men and HR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.19 to 3.07 for women, compared with 23.0-24.9 kg/m2), a history of hypertension (HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.67 to 3.22 for men and HR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.44 to 2.81 for women) and a history of diabetes mellitus (HR, 5.21; 95% CI, 3.68 to 7.37 for men and HR, 7.10; 95% CI, 4.93 to 10.24 for women) were associated with an increased risk of mortality from chronic kidney disease in both genders. In men, smoking was also associated with an increased risk (HR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.25 to 2.90), while current drinking (HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.34 to 0.98 for <23 g/day; HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.29 to 0.80 for 23-45 g/day and HR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.86 for ≥46 g/day) and exercising ≥5 hr/wk (HR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.18 to 0.96) were associated with a lower risk. Similar but non-significant associations for smoking and drinking were observed in women.
CONCLUSIONS
In addition to a history of hypertension and a history of diabetes mellitus, body mass index, smoking status, drinking status, and exercise habits were associated with the risk of mortality from chronic kidney disease.; Summary

Homelessness and mortality: gender, age, and housing status inequity in Korea: Gum-Ryeong Park, Dawoon Jeong, Seung Won Lee, Hojoon Sohn, Young Ae Kang, Hongjo Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024076. Published online September 12, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024076

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
We compared mortality rates among various housing statuses within the homeless population and investigated factors contributing to their deaths, including housing status, gender, and age.
METHODS
Using a comprehensive multi-year dataset (n=15,445) curated by the National Tuberculosis Screening and Case Management Programs, matched with the 2019-2021 Vital Statistics Death Database and National Health Insurance claims data, we calculated age-standardized mortality rates and conducted survival analysis to estimate differences in mortality rates based on housing status.
RESULTS
The mortality rate among the homeless population was twice as high as that of the general population, at 1,159.6 per 100,000 compared to 645.8 per 100,000, respectively. Cancer and cardiovascular diseases were the primary causes of death. Furthermore, individuals residing in shelter facilities faced a significantly higher risk of death than those who were rough sleeping, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.70 (95% confidence interval, 1.37 to 2.11). This increased risk was especially pronounced in older adults and women.
CONCLUSIONS
The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions, as the homeless population faces significantly higher mortality rates. Older adults and women in shelter facilities are at the highest risk.; Summary

Korean summary
전체 인구의 사망률은 큰 폭으로 줄어들면서 홈리스와 전체 인구 간의 사망 불평등이 1.3배에서 1.8배로 증가했다. 특히 쪽방주민이나 거리 홈리스보다 시설 거주 홈리스의 사망 위험이 더 높았으며, 동일 조건하에서 거리 홈리스 대비 약 1.7배 높은 사망 위험을 보였다. 본 연구는 홈리스의 탈시설화를 촉진하는 정책 전환의 필요성을 시사한다.

Key Message
The mortality rate of the general population has significantly declined, leading to an increase in mortality inequality between the homeless and the general population from 1.3 to 1.8 times. In particular, the mortality risk for homeless individuals in facilities was higher than that of those living in jjokbang or on the streets. This study highlights the need for a policy shift to promote deinstitutionalization for the homeless population.

Epidemic characteristics of measles and efforts to control measles infections in Zhejiang Province, China: Rui Yan, Mengya Yang, Hanqing He, Yan Feng, Yang Zhou, Xuewen Tang, Xuan Deng, Yao Zhu, Yuxia Du, Can Chen, Cao Kexin, Shigui Yang, RIDPHE Group; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024075. Published online September 11, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024075

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Several countries have successfully eliminated measles, and China is making significant strides toward achieving this goal. This study focused on investigating the patterns of measles infections in Zhejiang Province, China, as well as control measures. The objective was to provide valuable insights that could contribute to the development of nationwide elimination strategies.
METHODS
We analyzed measles surveillance data from 2005 to 2022 in Zhejiang Province. We utilized a joinpoint regression model to examine trends in measles. Additionally, we employed SaTScan version 9.5 to identify spatial-temporal clusters. Finally, we used an age-period-cohort model to assess the effects of age, period, and cohort.
RESULTS
The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of measles infection in Zhejiang Province from 2005 to 2022 was 5.24 per 100,000, showing a consistent and significant downward trend with an annual percentage change of -24.93% (p<0.05). After 2020, the ASIR for measles infection fell to below 0.1 per 100,000. The majority of measles cases occurred in individuals either without an immunization history or with an unknown immunization status, representing 41.06% and 41.40% of the cases from 2010 to 2022, respectively. According to data from the National Measles Surveillance System, the annual rate of discarded measles cases from 2009 to 2014, and the annual rate of discarded measles and rubella cases from 2015 to 2022, were both above 2 per 100,000, indicating the high sensitivity of the measles surveillance system.
CONCLUSIONS
The significant reduction in measles incidence from 2005 to 2022 demonstrates substantial progress in Zhejiang Province towards the elimination of measles.; Summary

Key Message
Measles incidence in Zhejiang Province has been declining since 2008, with a particularly notable decrease from 2020 to 2022. Adults remain the primary population susceptible to measles in Zhejiang Province. Therefore, it is essential to enhance prevention and control measures for measles, especially among individuals who have not received the MCV immunization. The reduced incidence of measles during the COVID-19 pandemic presents Zhejiang Province with a unique opportunity to leverage the lowest recorded measles incidence in its history and accelerate efforts in measles elimination.

Contrasting income-based inequalities in incidence and mortality of breast cancer in Korea, 2006-2015: Jinwook Bahk, Hee-Yeon Kang, Young-Ho Khang, Kyunghee Jung-Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024074. Published online September 11, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024074

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Breast cancer incidence and mortality rates in Korea are increasing. This study analyzed income-based inequalities in the incidence and mortality of women breast cancer from 2006 to 2015, using national data that covered all Korean women.
METHODS
We used the National Health Information Database from 2006 to 2015. For women aged 20 and older, the age-standardized incidence and mortality rates of breast cancer per 100,000 by income quintile per year were calculated using the direct method. The rate ratio and rate difference (RD) of the age-standardized incidence and mortality rates of breast cancer per 100,000 between the top and bottom income quintiles were calculated as relative and absolute measures for inequalities.
RESULTS
When comparing 2006 and 2015, both the incidence and mortality rates of breast cancer increased. The lowest income quintile experienced higher mortality rates despite having lower incidence rates. In 2015, the income-based RD in incidence and mortality rates between the highest and lowest income quintiles (Q1-Q5) was -19.9 (95% confidence interval [CI], -24.3 to -15.5) and 4.4 (95% CI, 2.9 to 5.8), respectively. Throughout this period, there was no statistically significant trend in income-based disparities in breast cancer incidence and mortality. The age-specific contributions to the absolute magnitude of inequality (RD) in incidence and mortality were more pronounced among middle-aged women than among older women.
CONCLUSIONS
This study found that breast cancer in Korea exhibited pro-rich inequalities in mortality despite pro-poor inequalities in incidence. More equitable policies for screening and treatment of breast cancer are needed.; Summary

Korean summary
2006년부터 2015년 한국의 유방암 불평등 추세를 분석하면, 소득수준이 낮은 여성의 발생률은 상대적으로 낮음에도 불구하고 사망률은 높은 양상을 보였다. 유방암 검진과 치료에 있어 보다 형평성을 고려한 정책이 요구된다.

Key Message
This study found that breast cancer in Korea exhibited pro-rich inequalities in mortality despite pro-poor inequalities in incidence. More equitable policies for screening and treatment of breast cancer are needed.

Gender-specific associations among neck circumference, the rs9939609 FTO gene polymorphism, and the 14-year risk of metabolic syndrome in the Korean adult population: Inkyung Baik; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024072. Published online August 23, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024072

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Limited data exist on the relation between neck circumference (NC) and the risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MS). This study investigated gender-specific associations between NC and the 14-year risk of MS and explored the impact of the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism on these associations.
METHODS
This population-based prospective cohort study involved 2,666 participants (1,301 men and 1,365 women), who were free of MS at baseline (2005-2006). Incident MS cases, defined by the presence of 3 or more criteria regarding blood pressure and blood levels of glucose, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, were identified through biennial examinations until 2020. NC measurements taken at baseline and between 2013 and 2014 were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard regression to determine gender-specific associations with MS risk.
RESULTS
Controlling for potential confounders such as waist circumference (WC), significant associations were observed in both genders. Individuals in the highest NC quartile exhibited more than a 2-fold higher MS risk than those in the lowest quartile; with hazard ratios of 2.37 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.74 to 3.22) for men and 2.65 (95% CI, 1.89 to 3.72) for women (p for trend <0.001). No significant interaction was found between the FTO polymorphism and NC. In diagnostic test analyses, NC and WC demonstrated comparable area under the curve values in both genders.
CONCLUSIONS
The findings suggest that NC is as effective as WC for predicting the incidence of MS.; Summary

Korean summary
허리둘레는 고혈압, 고혈당, 고지혈증의 위험과 밀접한 관련성을 나타내므로, 대사증후군의 구성 요소로 사용되어 왔다. 하지만 허리둘레 측정 시 피험자의 복장, 자세, 공복 및 식후 상태, 호흡 상태에 따라 측정 오차가 발생한다고 알려졌다. 본 연구는 한국 성인을 대상으로 14년간 진행된 전향적 코호트 연구 자료를 분석하여 목둘레가 허리둘레를 대신해서 대사증후군 위험을 예측할 수 있다는 결과를 확인하였다.

Key Message
Waist circumference has served as an anthropometric component of metabolic syndrome based on data regarding close associations with high blood pressure, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. However, measurement errors of waist circumference due to the subject’s clothing, posture, fasting or postprandial state, and respiratory phase have been pointed out. This 14-year prospective cohort study including Korean adults has revealed that neck circumference can serve as a comparative indicator to waist circumference for predicting metabolic syndrome risk.

Data Profile

Data profile: the Korean Workers’ Compensation-National Health Insurance Service (KoWorC-NHIS) cohort: Jeehee Min, Eun Mi Kim, Jaiyong Kim, Jungwon Jang, Youngjin Choi, Inah Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024071. Published online August 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024071

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
The Korean Workers’ Compensation-National Health Insurance Service (KoWorC-NHIS) cohort was established to investigate the longitudinal health outcomes of Korean workers who have been compensated for occupational injuries or diseases. This cohort study, which utilized data spanning from 2004 to 2015, merged workers’ compensation insurance claim data with the National Health Insurance Database (NHID), encompassing 858,793 participants. The data included socio-demographic factors such as age, sex, income, address, insurance type, and disability grade. It also covered the types of occupational accidents, International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision codes for diseases or accidents, work tenure, industry, occupation code, and company size. Additional details such as the occupational hire date, date of claim, date of recognition, and affected body parts were recorded. The cohort predominantly consisted of male workers (80.0%), with the majority experiencing their first occupational accident in their 40s (27.6%) or 50s (25.3%). Notably, 93.1% of the cases were classified as occupational injuries. By integrating this data with that from the NHID, updates on health utilization, employment status, and income changes were made annually. The follow-up period for this study is set to conclude in 2045.; Summary

Korean summary
KoWorC-NHIS Cohort (산재보험-국민건강보험공단 코호트) 는 2004년부터 2015년까지 산업재해를 경험한 근로자들의 장기적인 건강 결과를 추적 조사하기 위해 구축된 코호트이다. 이 코호트에는 총 858,793명의 근로자가 등록되었으며, 대다수는 남성 (80%)이었고, 업무상 사고 (93.1%)를 경험한 것으로 나타났다. 이 코호트를 활용하여 산업재해 피해 근로자들의 장기적인 건강영향을 분석할 수 있으며, 취약 계층 근로자의 건강을 보호하기 위한 예방 정책 수립의 근거로 활용할 수 있다.

Key Message
The KoWorC-NHIS Cohort (Workers' Compensation Insurance-National Health Insurance Service Cohort) was established to track the long-term health outcomes of workers who experienced occupational injuries and illnesses from 2004 to 2015. The cohort includes a total of 858,793 workers, with the majority being male (80%) and having experienced occupational accidents (93.1%). This cohort can be used to analyze the long-term health effects on workers who have suffered occupational injuries, and can serve as evidence for establishing preventive policies to protect the health of vulnerable workers.

Original Article

Genetic associations and parent-of-origin effects of PVRL1 in non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate across multiple ethnic populations: Ji Wan Park, Geon Kang, Seung-Hak Baek, Young Ho Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024069. Published online August 9, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024069

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the associations of PVRL1 gene variants with non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) by evaluating transmission distortion and parent-of-origin (POO) effects in multiple ethnic populations.
METHODS
We conducted allelic and genotypic transmission disequilibrium tests (TDT) on 10 single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) in PVRL1 using data from 142 Korean families with an affected child. POO effects were analyzed using the POO likelihood ratio test, comparing transmission rates of maternally and paternally inherited alleles. To assess generalizability and ethnic heterogeneity, we compared results from Korean families with data from the Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics, which included 2,226 individuals from 497 European and 245 Asian trios.
RESULTS
TDT analysis identified significant over-transmission of the rs7940667 (G361V) C allele in Korean families (p=0.007), a finding replicated in both Asian (p=6.5×10-7) and European families (p=1.6×10-10). Eight SNVs showed strong TDT evidence in larger Asian and European datasets after multiple comparison corrections (p<0.0073). Of these, 4 SNVs (rs7940667, rs7103685, rs7129848, and rs4409845) showed particularly robust association (p<5×10-8). POO analysis revealed significant maternal over-transmission of the rs10790330-A allele in Korean families (p=0.044). This finding was replicated in European families (p=9.0×10-4). Additionally, 3 other SNVs, rs7129848 (p=0.001) and the linked SNVs rs3935406 and rs10892434 (p=0.025), exhibited maternal over-transmission in the validation datasets.
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings provide robust evidence supporting the associations of PVRL1 variants with NSCL/P susceptibility. Further research is necessary to explore the potential clinical applications of these findings.; Summary

Brief Communication

The association between employee lifestyles and the rates of mental health-related absenteeism and turnover in Japanese companies: Atsuya Fujimoto, Hiroshi Kanegae, Kaori Kitaoka, Mizuki Ohashi, Kunio Okada, Koichi Node, Kenkichi Takase, Hiroshi Fukuda, Tomoyuki Miyazaki, Yuichiro Yano; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024068. Published online August 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024068

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Abstract PDF: Abstract
We assessed the association of employee lifestyles (e.g., smoking, exercise, drinking, and sleep habits) with mental health-related absenteeism and turnover rates utilizing data from the annual Health and Productivity Management survey by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. This analysis included data from 1,748 companies, encompassing 4,199,021 employees. The average proportions of mental health-related absenteeism and employee turnover rates were 1.1±1.0% and 5.0±5.0%, respectively. In multivariable regression models that incorporated all lifestyle factors and confounders, a 1 percentage point increase in the proportion of employees who slept well was associated with reductions in their turnover rate (mean, -0.020%; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.038 to -0.002) and in mental health-related absenteeism (mean, -0.005%; 95% CI, -0.009 to 0.001). A similar increase in the proportion of employees engaging in regular physical activity corresponded with a 0.005% decrease in the prevalence of mental health-related absenteeism (95% CI, -0.010 to -0.001). A 1 percentage point increase in the proportion of employees who smoked was associated with a 0.013% reduction in mental health-related absenteeism (95% CI, -0.017 to -0.008). Nonetheless, the current study’s observational and cross-sectional design restricted the ability to establish causality between employee lifestyle factors and mental health issues.; Summary

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