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Asthma and other symptoms in cinnamon workers
British Journal of Industrial Medicine
|May 1, 1984
Summary
Cinnamon processing exposes workers to irritant dust, causing various health issues. Most workers experienced symptoms like asthma, skin irritation, hair loss, and weight loss, but not dermatitis.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) bark contains cinnamic aldehyde, a known irritant.
- Industrial processing of cinnamon generates significant airborne dust exposure for workers.
Observation:
- A study examined 40 cinnamon processing workers with an average of four years of industry experience.
- Workers were assessed for symptoms potentially related to cinnamon dust exposure.
Findings:
- 87.5% of workers reported symptoms, including 22.5% with asthma.
- Common symptoms included skin irritation (50%), hair loss (37.5%), and eye irritation (22.5%).
- Significant weight loss (65%) was the most frequent finding; contact dermatitis was notably absent.
Implications:
- Cinnamon dust poses significant occupational health risks beyond previously documented contact dermatitis.
- Findings highlight the need for protective measures for cinnamon processing workers.
- Further research into the specific mechanisms of cinnamon dust toxicity is warranted.