Risk factors for heat-related illness among Oregon migrant and seasonal farmworkers

Background & Objectives Outdoor workers are a group with increased vulnerability to climate-sensitive health outcomes such as heat-related illness (HRI) and migrant and seasonal farmworkers (MSFW) are particularly at risk given their tasks involve heavy exertion in an outdoor setting. However, most of the previous research regarding the morbidity associated with and prevention of occupational HRI has focused on U.S. military personnel, firefighters, and miners or other industrial workers. The specific aim of the study is to identify personal, medical, cultural, environmental, and work-related risk factors for HRI among MSFWs in Oregon.

Methods Project team will recruit a convenience sample of 100 MSFWs from housing units in two counties in Oregon to participate in the study. Data will be collected using a computer-assisted personal interview covering 6 sections including demographics, housing, agricultural work, non-agricultural work, HRI (including symptoms experienced and risk factors), and health status and health behaviors. Trained, bilingual interviewers will conduct the interviews at the housing sites. Participants will receive an incentive to participate in the study. Bivariate analyses will be conducted to examine associations between farmworkers' risk perception, risk factors, and working conditions and symptoms of HRI, respectively. Multivariate analyses will be conducted to examine the independent associations between covariates and HRI.

Results Data will be collected during July and August 2013 due to the seasonal nature of this occupational health issue.

Conclusions The study seeks to reduce HRI among farmworkers in Oregon by establishing the foundation from which culturally competent interventions can be developed.