Table of Contents
GIPMEL 2025;5(1):1-4
Commentary in Public and Occupational Health
AI-Powered systematic reviews in public and occupational health: Opportunities and ethical challenges
Author: Francesco CHIRICO1*
1 Post-graduate School of Occupational Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia. E-mail: francesco.chirico@unicatt.it. ORCID: 0000-0002- 8737-4368
* Corresponding Author
Abstract
The exponential growth of scientific literature presents significant challenges for researchers conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses, particularly in public and occupational health. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers transformative potential to streamline these processes by expediting literature screening, enhancing data extraction, and identifying critical evidence with unprecedented efficiency. This commentary explores the opportunities presented by AI in addressing these challenges, including its ability to manage large datasets, uncover hidden associations, and support rapid evidence synthesis for policymaking and clinical practice.
While the benefits of AI are substantial, its integration into systematic reviews is not without challenges. Issues such as algorithmic bias, transparency, and the need for robust human oversight remain critical concerns. The commentary highlights these ethical and technical challenges and underscores the importance of standardized guidelines and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure reliability and quality in AI-assisted research. By addressing these challenges, AI can advance evidence-based practices in public and occupational health, fostering innovation and improving health outcomes globally.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence; ethical challenges; occupational health; public health; systematic review.
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GIPMEL 2025;5(1):5-21
Commentary in Occupational Health Psychology
Occupational stress and burnout among physicians in the United States: Challenges and interventions for a global health crisis
Authors: Asma AWAN1*, Sharmistha ROY1, Manoj SHARMA1,2
1 Department of Social and Behavioral Health. School of Public Health. University of Nevada, Las Vegas, USA. Email: asma.awan@unlv.edu. ORCID: 0009-0002-0535-218X
1 Department of Social and Behavioral Health. School of Public Health. University of Nevada, Las Vegas, USA. roys5@unlv.nevada.edu. ORCID: 0009-0000-2691-938X
2 Department of Internal Medicine. Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV. University of Nevada, Las Vega
* Corresponding Author
Abstract
Physicians play a pivotal role in delivering quality patient care and serve as the essential link between healthcare systems and patients. However, acute and chronic stress, compounded by demanding work conditions, significantly impacts their psychosocial well-being, often culminating in burnout. Burnout among physicians, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a diminished sense of personal accomplishment, has become increasingly prevalent, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This commentary examines the key factors contributing to occupational stress and burnout in physicians, including individual and systemic determinants. It also reviews existing interventions and programs implemented globally, with a particular focus on strategies designed at both individual and organizational levels. Finally, the article underscores the importance of preventive measures and social-emotional support systems to enhance the overall mental and physical well-being of physicians. Addressing these challenges is critical not only for physician health but also for ensuring high-quality patient care and the efficiency of healthcare systems.
Keywords: Occupational stress; burnout; stigmatization; depersonalization; emotional exhaustion
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GIPMEL 2025;5(1):22-34
Original Research in Occupational Health
Workplace-based dietary intervention study: Effects on body mass index and fat mass in metalworking industry workers
Authors: Luca DI GIAMPAOLO1*, Rossella MARTELLI2, Daria ZICCARDI3, Claudia GIURGOLA4, Federica MARINO5, Vittorio BARASSI6, Paola BORRELLI7, Laura FORCELLA8, Maria Elisa MAIOLO9, Rocco MANGIFESTA10, Luca COPPETA11, Francesca DI MECO12
1Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy. E-mail: luca.digiampaolo@unich.it ORCID: 0000-0003-3315-7197
2 Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
E-mail: rossellamartelli90@gmail.com
3 Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
E-mail: daria.ziccardi@gmail.com
4 Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
E-mail: cgiurgola@yahoo.it
5 Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
E-mail: federicamarinomdl@gmail.com
6 Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
E-mail: vittoriobarassi@gmail.com ORCID: 0009-0005-6754-6993
7 Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, Laboratory of Biostatistics, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy. E-mail: paola.borrelli@unich.it ORCID: 0000-0001-9389-627X
8 Università degli Studi eCampus, Novedrate (CO), Italy. E-mail: laura.forcella@uniecampus.it ORCID: 009-0008-3630-2779
9 Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara,
Italy. E-mail: maiolo.elisa@hotmail.it ORCID: 0000-0003-2542-5745
10 ASL02 Lanciano-Vasto-Chieti, Italy. E-mail: rocco.mangifesta@asl2abruzzo.it ORCID: 0000-0003-4663-7165
11 Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy. E-mail: lcoppeta@gmail.com ORCID: 0000-0003-2470-6107
12 University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy. E-mail: francydimeco@yahoo.it
*Corresponding Author
Abstract
Background: Overweight and obesity are prevalent health issues with significant implications for workers’ health, productivity, and workplace safety. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary modifications and workplace interventions on health outcomes among metalworking industry workers.
Methods: A total of 683 workers participated in a workplace-based intervention focusing on dietary modifications, physical activity promotion, and health monitoring. Anthropometric measures, including BMI and fat mass, were recorded at baseline and follow-up using bioimpedance analysis. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests and mixed linear models to assess changes over time.
Results: Significant reductions in BMI and fat mass were observed among participants. At follow-up, 56.95% of workers achieved BMI reduction, with 29.31% reaching the target of at least 4%. Similarly, 52.27% reduced fat mass, with 77.03% achieving reductions of at least 2%. Night shift workers demonstrated better adherence and outcomes compared to day shift workers. Improvements in psychophysical well-being and productivity were also reported.
Conclusions: Workplace-based interventions can effectively address obesity and overweight, improving employees’ health and organizational productivity. Future research should focus on long-term sustainability, randomized controlled trials, and broader demographic inclusion to enhance the generalizability of findings.
Keywords: Diet; lifestyle; health promotion; prevention measures; workplace prevention.
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GIPMEL 2025;5(1):35-43
Research Article in Occupational Health Psychology
Intervention of Snoezelen Rooms in reducing burnout among healthcare professionals: A pilot study
Authors: Monica DI STEFANO1*, Martina BARBERA2, Francesca BRUNO2, Cristina FOTI3, Francesca FALLITI3, Maria Grazia MAGGIO4, Amelia RIZZO1,3
1 Medical-Legal Center of the National Institute of Social Welfare, Messina, Italy. E-mail: monica_di_stefano@hotmail.com
2 Department of Cognitive Sciences, Pedagogical Psychological and Cultural Studies, University of Messina, Messina, Italy. E-mail: francesca.bruno3@studenti.unime.it ORCID: 0009-0007-1842-2470 (FB). E-mail: martinabarbera17@gmail.com ; ORCID: 0009-0008-6872-7931 (MB)
3Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy. E-mail: amrizzo@unime.it ORCID: 0000-0002-6229-6463
4 IRCCS Centro Neurolesi ”Bonino Pulejo”, Messina, Italy. E-mail: mariagrazia.maggio@irccsme.it ORCID: 0000-0003-0757-2389
* Corresponding Author
Abstract
Background: Burnout among healthcare professionals is a significant concern, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. This phenomenon adversely impacts the well-being of healthcare workers and compromises the quality of patient care. Effective interventions are needed to mitigate burnout and enhance the mental health of healthcare staff.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Snoezelen Rooms—multisensory environments designed to provide relaxation and stress relief—in reducing burnout among healthcare professionals.
Methods: A sample of 20 healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, participated in this study. The participants had an average age of 44.19 years, and all were female with an average of 14 years of work experience. None of the participants were smokers or users of alcohol or drugs. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was used to measure burnout levels before and after the intervention. Participants accessed the Snoezelen Rooms for 30-minute sessions twice a week over three months. These rooms were equipped with sensory devices such as bubble tubes, fiber optics, projectors, starry sky curtains, mirrors, sound and light walls, vibrating chairs, water beds, and aroma diffusers.
Results: The analysis revealed a significant reduction in burnout levels among participants following the intervention. Emotional exhaustion scores decreased from 30.5 ± 6.2 to 20.1 ± 5.4, representing a 34.1% reduction (p<.001). Depersonalization scores dropped from 15.3 ± 4.7 to 10.4 ± 3.9, a reduction of 32.0% (p<.002). Additionally, personal accomplishment scores increased from 22.6 ± 5.3 to 28.9 ± 6.1, indicating a 27.9% improvement (p<.01).
Conclusions: The use of Snoezelen Rooms proved to be an effective intervention for reducing burnout among healthcare professionals. The multisensory environments facilitated relaxation, reduced stress, and improved personal satisfaction. These findings suggest that integrating Snoezelen Rooms into healthcare settings could significantly enhance the well-being of medical staff and improve patient care quality. Further research is needed to confirm these results in larger and more diverse samples.
Keywords: Burnout; healthcare professionals; snoezelen room; stress reduction.
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GIPMEL 2025;5(1):44-51
Original Article in Occupational Health
Effectiveness of an integrated prevention program for occupational heat-related risks: A descriptive study in Italy
Authors: Angelo SACCO1*, Angela Anna CRAMAROSSA2, Livia FERRI3, Ines PICCARI4, Virna PISCIOTTANO5
1 Post-graduate School of Occupational Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy. Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza negli Ambienti di Lavoro, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia (Italy) ,E-mail: angelo.sacco@alice.it ORCID: 0000-0002-8429-5314.
2 Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza negli Ambienti di Lavoro, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia (Italy) angela.cramarossa@aslroma4.it
3 Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza negli Ambienti di Lavoro, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia (Italy) livia.ferri@aslroma4.it
4 Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza negli Ambienti di Lavoro, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia (Italy) ines.piccari@aslroma4.it
5 Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza negli Ambienti di Lavoro, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia (Italy) virna.pisciottano@aslroma4.it
*Corresponding Author
Abstract
Introduction: The rise in global temperatures and the frequency of heatwaves pose significant challenges to workplace health and safety, particularly in outdoor sectors. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an integrated prevention program in mitigating occupational heat-related risks during the summer of 2024 in Italy.
Methods: A descriptive study was conducted to analyze assistance, monitoring, and effectiveness verification activities implemented in 47 outdoor companies employing 375 workers. Compliance with regulations, use of self-assessment checklists.
Results: Of the inspected companies, 96% complied with regulations, with higher adherence among those adopting the checklist (+25%) and attending the training webinar. Non-compliance was observed in 4% of companies, primarily in port activities (14,3%) and the construction sector (6.7%).
Discussion: The findings show that an integrated prevention program can improve workplace safety, consistent with international literature. However, specific sectors, such as port activities and construction, require additional targeted interventions. These results highlight the importance of collaborative approaches to addressing climate-related workplace risks.
Conclusions: The program serves as a replicable model for managing occupational heat-related risks, emphasizing the need for tailored and integrated strategies to protect worker health in the face of climate change.
Keywords: Climate change; compliance; heat stress; occupational safety; risk prevention.
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GIPMEL 2025;5(1): 52-65
Original Article in Occupational Health Psychology
System justification theory and sexual harassment in the workplace: A qualitative study of victims’ experiences in Italy
Authors: Andrea Francesca FASANELLA1, Tatiana BEGOTTI2, Daniela ACQUADRO MARAN3*
1 Dipartimento di Psicologia, Università di Torino, Torino, Italia. Email: andrea.fasanella@edu.unito.it. ORCID: 0000-0002-8737-4368
2 Dipartimento Psicologia, Università di Torino, Torino, Italia. Email: tatiana.begotti@unito.it. ORCID: 0000-0002-8422-3038
3 Dipartimento di Psicologia, Università di Torino, Italia. Email: daniela.acquadro@unito.it. ORCID: 0000-0002-9924-4093
*Corresponding Author
Abstract
This qualitative study investigates how female employees who have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace describe system-justifying behaviors exhibited by themselves and their colleagues. The research was conducted in Italy, where recent data indicate that 13.5% of working women aged 15–70 have faced sexual harassment in their professional lives, with prevalence highest among those aged 15–24 (21.2%). A total of 25 women who self-identified as victims of workplace sexual harassment were interviewed. The questions explored the context of the harassment, the emotional responses elicited, and actions taken by both the victims and bystanders to justify or challenge the system. Findings reveal a pervasive tendency to defend and reinforce existing workplace norms to maintain organizational stability. However, this defensive attitude often perpetuates harmful behaviors, preventing the integration of new perspectives and hindering efforts to address the status quo. The study emphasizes the need for systemic and cultural changes to foster greater awareness and proactive responses to workplace sexual harassment.
Keywords: exual harassment; Ssystem Justification Theory; psycho-social risk.
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GIPMEL 2025;5(1): 66-76
Original Article in Occupational Health Practice
Participatory management of occupational risks: Use of Participatory Ergonomics Groups (GEPs) in health surveillance
Authors: NICOLA MAGNAVITA1*, Igor MERAGLIA2
1 Post-graduate School of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy. Email: nicolamagnavita@gmail.com. ORCID: 0000-0002-0988-7344.
2 Post-graduate School of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy.
* Corresponding Author
Abstract
Introduction: Employee participation in occupational risk prevention activities is essential for effective risk control. “Bottom-up” techniques, which leverage the knowledge of workers, enhance the acceptability and sustainability of prevention and health promotion initiatives.
This paper discusses the use of Participatory Ergonomics Groups (GEPs), a technique developed by the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart more than 20 years ago, to improve occupational risk management.
Methods: GEPs involve workers describing their work processes in the presence of the occupational doctor. When the reconstruction of the production flow reveals critical issues, workers are encouraged to propose and discuss potential solutions. The most cost-effective, simple, and widely accepted proposals are then recommended to the company.
Results: GEPs have been applied to various problems, including occupational risk assessment, injury prevention, prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, and occupational stress management.
Discussion: The doctor in charge of health surveillance can significantly enhance their activities by employing this simple yet powerful technique.
Keywords: Focus group; injury; prevention; musculoskeletal disorders; health promotion; risk assessment; occupational accident; policy; work-related stress; workplace violence.
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GIPMEL 2025;5(1): 77-89
Technical Report in Occupational Health Practice
Aggressività e violenza nei confronti del personale sanitario medico-legale dell’Istituto Nazionale Previdenza Sociale (INPS): analisi del fenomeno e strategie di gestione
Aggression and violence against medico-legal healthcare personnel of the Italian National Institute of Social Security (INPS): Analysis of the phenomenon and management strategies
Authors: Gaetana STELITANO1, Amelia RIZZO2*, Diego BURZOMATI3
1 Medico INPS di I fascia, Centro di Medicina Legale, Messina. E-mail: gaetana.stelitano01@inps.it.
2 Psicologo Operatore Sociale INPS, Centro di Medicina Legale, Messina. E-mail: amelia.rizzo@outlook.it ORCID: 0000-0002-6229-6463.
3 Responsabile U.O. INPS, Centro di Medicina Legale, Messina. E-mail: diego.burzomati@inps.it.
* Corresponding Author
Abstract
The issue of aggression and violence against medico-legal healthcare personnel, such as that of the Italian National Institute of Social Security (INPS), is a growing concern. This phenomenon, encompassing both verbal and physical behaviors, severely impacts the well-being of staff and the quality of service. An analysis of this issue highlights various triggering factors, including patient dissatisfaction with medical evaluations, perceptions of injustice, and frustration with complex bureaucratic processes. These factors can significantly increase the risk of aggressive behavior, necessitating the implementation of effective preventive strategies.
De-escalation has proven to be effective in these contexts, as it aims to reduce aggression before it escalates into open violence. Techniques employed include clear and empathetic communication, emotional self-regulation by staff, and timely recognition of early signs of aggression. Additionally, environmental management and physical safety measures play an important role in preventing situations from worsening. The application of de-escalation techniques emerges as a key strategy for managing such incidents, reducing the risk of escalation and improving the safety of both staff and patients.
Nevertheless, further research is needed to develop specific guidelines for the training of medico-legal personnel, tailoring de-escalation techniques to the unique challenges of their work environment, where emotional pressure and stress are particularly high.
Riassunto
Il tema dell’aggressività e della violenza nei confronti del personale sanitario medico-legale, come quello dell’Istituto Nazionale di Previdenza Sociale (INPS), è di crescente preoccupazione. Questo fenomeno, che include comportamenti verbali e fisici, colpisce gravemente il benessere del personale e la qualità del servizio. L’analisi di questo fenomeno mette in luce diversi fattori scatenanti, tra cui l’insoddisfazione del paziente rispetto alle valutazioni mediche, la percezione di ingiustizia o la frustrazione legata a processi burocratici complessi. Tali fattori possono aumentare esponenzialmente il rischio di comportamenti aggressivi, rendendo necessaria l’adozione di strategie preventive efficaci.
La de-escalation si dimostra efficace in questi contesti perché mira a ridurre l’aggressività prima che si trasformi in violenza aperta. Tra le tecniche utilizzate rientrano la comunicazione chiara ed empatica, l’autoregolazione delle emozioni da parte del personale, e il riconoscimento tempestivo dei segnali precoci di aggressività. Inoltre, anche la gestione ambientale e la sicurezza fisica giocano un ruolo importante nel prevenire l’aggravarsi delle situazioni. L’applicazione della de-escalation technique emerge come strategia chiave per gestire queste situazioni, riducendo il rischio di escalation e migliorando la sicurezza di operatori e pazienti.
Nonostante ciò, ulteriori ricerche sono necessarie per sviluppare linee guida specifiche per la formazione del personale medico-legale, adattando le tecniche di de-escalation alle sfide uniche del loro ambiente di lavoro, dove la pressione emotiva e lo stress sono elevati.
Keywords: Aggression; de-escalation; medico-legal personnel; INPS (Italian National Institute of Social Security); workplace violence.
Parole chiave: Aggressività; INPS; de-escalation; medicina legale; violenza sul lavoro.
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