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[Occupational asthma. Occurrence, diagnosis, course and prevention]
1Lungeavdelingen Rikshospitalet, Oslo.
Summary
Occupational asthma, a work-related respiratory disease, is caused by inhaling workplace agents. Early diagnosis and relocation improve prognosis for this condition, which affects 20% of adult asthma cases in Norway.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Environmental Health
Context:
- Occupational asthma is a significant cause of work-related respiratory disease.
- It is estimated to account for 20% of adult asthma cases in Norway.
- Introduction of new chemicals at work may increase prevalence.
Purpose:
- To define occupational asthma and its diagnostic tools.
- To highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis.
- To emphasize the benefits of early recognition and relocation.
Summary:
- Occupational asthma involves variable airflow obstruction from workplace agent inhalation.
- Diagnostic methods include detailed history, immunological tests, peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurements, and bronchial reactivity tests.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for economic reasons and to improve patient outcomes through early intervention.
Impact:
- Improved prognosis through early diagnosis and relocation to non-exposure environments.
- Reduced economic burden associated with occupational disease classification.
- Increased awareness and management of work-related respiratory illnesses.