Respiratory and Musculoskeletal Symptoms Combined with Reproductive Outcomes among Female Hairdressers: A Screening Study in Palestine

Background: Female hairdressers are frequently exposed to a mixture of hazardous chemicals, which could impact their health. However, studies on this occupational exposure in Palestine are limited. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of respiratory, musculoskeletal, and reproductive symptoms among female hairdressers in Nablus, Palestine, and to examine their association with work duration. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 310 randomly selected female hairdressers from Nablus, using standardized assessment tools. Self-reported respiratory, musculoskeletal, and reproductive symptoms were collected and analyzed. Results: Among participants, 34.8% reported shortness of breath, 26.1% had a cough, and 23% experienced hand dermatitis. Musculoskeletal symptoms were highly prevalent, with neck pain (71.9%), shoulder pain (68.4%), and back pain (68.1%) being most common. Abortions were reported by 26.5% of participants. A significant association was found between work duration and respiratory symptoms such as wheezing and cough (P=0.029, 0.032), as well as musculoskeletal pain in shoulders, elbows, hands, and wrists (P=0.047, 0.007). No significant association was found between work duration and reproductive symptoms. Conclusion: Occupational safety improvements are recommended for female hairdressers, including better awareness and use of protective equipment, and promoting safe handling of chemicals.
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