Background

Female hairdressers could be exposed in their workplace to a mixture of multiple hazardous chemicals by different routes. Yet, studies in our region regarding this exposure are limited. We aimed to measure the prevalence of respiratory, musculoskeletal and reproductive symptoms among a random sample of female hairdressers in Nablus city, Palestine. The study further examined the possible association between the reported symptoms and work duration.

Methods

A cross sectional study using previously standardized tools was conducted. In total, 310 hairdressers were randomly selected from a full list of all hairdressers registered in the Palestinian association of hairdressers in Nablus city. Self-reported respiratory, musculoskeletal and reproductive outcomes were assessed.

Findings

Our study revealed that among Palestinian female hairdressers, 34.8% reported shortness of breath, 26.1% cough, and 23% hand dermatitis. Musculoskeletal complaints were also prevalent with 71.9% experiencing neck pain, 68.4% shoulder pain, and 68.1% back pain. Abortions were reported by 26.5% of participants. A significant correlation was observed between work duration and both respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing and cough (P=0.029, 0.032), and musculoskeletal pain in shoulders, elbows, hands, and wrists (P=0.047, 0.007). No significant link was found between reproductive symptoms and work duration.

Conclusion

We recommend improving the work conditions, and raise the level of knowledge and awareness among hairdressers regarding the importance of using protective equipment and encourage safe handling of chemicals.

Title

PMPJ

Publisher

An-Najah National University

Publisher Country

Palestine

Indexing

Scopus

Impact Factor

None

Publication Type

Both (Printed and Online)

Volume

--

Year

2024

Pages

--