Global Lead Apron Survey (GLAS)

The 2025 Safety Science meta-analysis pooled 31 studies and found that healthcare workers who wear lead aprons face nearly 4× the risk of musculoskeletal injury. The 2023 SCAI survey found that 6 out of 10 cath lab workers have already sustained an orthopedic injury. A 2025 BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders study reported that up to 82% of physicians with regular lead exposure live with musculoskeletal pain. See Publications

Here's the problem: the authors of that meta-analysis openly admit the evidence base is weak.

• How many hours in lead, per day, per week, per year?

• One-piece apron or two-piece?

• How often are you bent forward while in lead?

No one has asked everyone. Until now.

This is the first global survey designed to answer those questions. It takes about 4 minutes. Your responses are anonymous. The survey opens April 23, 2026, we will publish the full findings openly on MyOrthoVest.com

Thank you for helping us change what we know.

Prototype Program (optional/separate from survey):

OrthoVest removes the compressive force of lead aprons and offsets the lever effect while in a bent forward position.

We are currently seeking input regarding how we could improve the design. If you’d like to apply for participation (demo, reduced cost purchase) in exchange for feedback.