[Preventive vocational measures for adolescents with asthma and allergies--a model project]

The difficulties encountered by asthmatic and allergic youngsters faced with choosing a career represent a problem that is gaining in relevance. The general prohibition of certain trades is, for many of those involved, both unsatisfactory and lacing in future prospects. In a model project supported by the Federal Institute of Labour is intended to help young people with asthma and allergies. By means of an interdisciplinary programme involving psychologists, teachers, instructors and physicians, the youngsters are given advice on how to chose a career/profession on the basis of their personal interests, abilities, job suitability and health situation. Between September 1987 and March 1989, 50 persons, including 43 asthmatics participated in this programme. In contrast to the poor level of schooling, the intelligence test revealed a normal distribution. The psychological stress tolerance was reduced in two-thirds of the subjects. In 7 cases, workplace-associated changes in pulmonary function were established; in 11 cases workplace-related dermatological problems were seen. Only one-third of the youngsters were considered suitable for careers in industry; the majority were advised to take advantage of the training or rehabilitation possibilities offered by the Federal Institute of Labour.