Launch of Coset-MSA, a national study on health and occupational risks in the agricultural sector

cp-coset-msa-271117.pdf

Published on 27 November 2017

Santé publique France, in partnership with the MSA (Mutualité Sociale Agricole), is launching a major study on the health status of agricultural workers. 180,000 MSA members are invited to participate. The objective of this study is to examine the links between the onset of health problems and the working conditions inherent to this sector. The results will help better define prevention priorities and contribute to the implementation of dedicated programs.

Why this study?

In the agricultural sector, occupational exposures are diverse, numerous, and a source of risks (accidents, mechanical stress, pesticides, outdoor work, biological agents, stress, and mental workload, etc.).

The Coset-MSA study will examine the links between these exposures and the onset of health problems that may affect current and former workers covered by the agricultural social security system (musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory conditions, allergies, cardiovascular diseases, infections, cancers, hearing loss, psychological disorders, etc.).

In order to analyze changes in health status and assess the long-term effects of certain hazards, the study plans to follow participants over several years. To include a wide variety of occupational situations in the analysis, it is essential that the number of participants be as high as possible.

Who is involved?

Current and former MSA members, employees, farm operators, and assisting spouses. By targeting a broad population of working individuals and retirees, the Coset-MSA study will provide a comprehensive picture of their health status and the diversity of the agricultural sector.

Implementation details:

A random draw among MSA members active in 2016 was used to select a broad, representative sample of professionals in the sector. The 180,000 members selected in the random draw will receive, starting this month, a letter inviting them to complete an online questionnaire about their health status and professional situation, accessible on the secure website www.coset.fr. Data analysis will begin in 2018. The first results will be available starting in 2019.

This study is part of the Coset program (Cohorts for Work-Related Epidemiological Surveillance), a national program to monitor workers’ health implemented by Santé publique France. Two major studies are being launched: Coset-MSA, focusing on agricultural workers, and Coset-RSI, focusing on self-employed professionals. Data on workers in other sectors will also be analyzed as part of the Coset program to provide a comprehensive picture of the health of the working population in France.

For more information on the survey: www.coset.fr and www.msa.fr