Respiratory symptoms and ventilatory function among Finnish reindeer herders

Prevalence of respiratory symptoms in relation to occupation and smoking habits were evaluated in 211 randomly selected male reindeer herders in Northern Finland. Clinical examination with skin prick tests (SPT) and spirometry was conducted in 23 local health centers. No significant differences could be determined in respiratory symptoms, smoking habits or ventilatory function between full-time reindeer herders and their controls. Positive SPT reactions to common allergens in reindeer herders were to some extent lower than expected. Only one test subject had positive SPT to reindeer epithelium. 35% were non-smokers, 32% smokers and 33% ex-smokers. Prevalence of chronic bronchitis was 10% in non-smokers and 28% in regular smokers, while the prevalence of cough was 18% and 23%, and that of the phlegm 10% and 34%, respectively. 14% had dyspnoea caused by cold air inhalation. In the age groups of 21-39 FVC and FEV1 increased by age in ex- and non-smokers but decreased in smokers. The mean FEV1% was lowest in regular smokers. Further studies are needed to establish the possible disadvantage of cold air to reindeer herder's working capacity.