Occupational allergic contact dermatitis among construction workers in India

Area of Science:

• Occupational Dermatology
• Allergology
• Public Health

Background:

• Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a prevalent occupational hazard for construction workers, often leading to reduced quality of life and financial burdens.
• ACD in construction workers is frequently overlooked, with a lack of prior research in the Indian subcontinent.
• This study addresses the gap in understanding ACD among construction workers in India.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the allergological profile of workers involved in road and bridge construction.
• To identify common allergens responsible for contact dermatitis in this occupational group.
• To provide a basis for targeted prevention strategies.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study was conducted in West Bengal, India, involving workers from road, bridge, and flyover construction sites.
• Sixteen workers with clinical suspicion of dermatitis were selected; ten underwent patch testing with the Indian standard battery.
• Reactions were analyzed, and the relevance of positive patch tests was assessed according to established guidelines.

Main Results:

• The study population consisted of male workers with an average age of 24.8 years.
• Dermatitis affected both exposed (93.75%) and covered (62.5%) skin areas.
• The most frequent relevant allergens identified were chromate (60%), epoxy resin (30%), cobalt (20%), nickel (20%), thiuram mixture (10%), and black rubber mix (10%).
• Two cases (20%) were diagnosed with irritant contact dermatitis.

Conclusions:

• Chromate emerged as the most common allergen among construction workers in this region of India.
• The high prevalence of dermatitis on both exposed and covered areas indicates widespread allergen exposure.
• Findings underscore the need for increased awareness and targeted interventions to manage ACD in this workforce.