Inequality in occupational noise and cardiometabolic diseases, identifying mechanisms and intersecting risks (SCAPIS occupation)

Research problem and specific questionsOccupational noise affects a large number of the workforce in Sweden and globally.

Cardiometabolic diseases such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular illness are prevalent with substantial consequences for the individual and society.

While there is growing evidence on the detrimental effects of occupational noise on cardiometabolic health, the mechanisms are still unclarified, also given the influence of social vulnerability.

To understand how occupational noise affects cardiometabolic health, we will apply multiple exposure rationale, focusing on biopsychosocial mechanisms.

Specific research questions are: Is occupational noise associated with cardiometabolic diseases (diabetes, metabolic syndrome)? How can an early-stage association be identified, using biomarkers of unhealthy fat-glucose metabolism?

What roles do occupational psychosocial stressors, sleep quality and social vulnerability have in these associations?Data and methodWe will use unique data from the SCAPIS cohort with over 30,000 participants aged between 50 and 64, in Sweden.

The data includes extensive clinical and laboratory measurements of cardiometabolic health, and questionnaire data covering self‐reported health, occupational and environmental exposures, lifestyle factors and socioeconomic status. A subsample (n=5300) of SCAPIS has occupational history available, allowing retrospective analyses of exposure.

Registry data on diabetes 3-5-years after baseline will be used to strengthen causality inferences.

We will use different analytical approaches: cross-sectional, retrospective, and prospective.Plan for project realizationThis research project will be developed on a three-year structure. Data is already collected, although extensive data management will be required. Other steps include advanced data analysis, reporting and communication with stakeholders.

The research group is multi-disciplinary including expertise in areas of psychology, medicine, acoustics, epidemiology, statistics, occupational health and public health.RelevanceThis project relates to Forte’s areas of responsibility health/working life and is aligned with the goal to achieve equal health and sustainable working life.

Our findings will clarify biopsychosocial mechanisms from occupational noise to cardiometabolic health, assisting in new preventive strategies. The focus on social vulnerability will inform policies targeting specific groups and working conditions.