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Allergy to laboratory animals: a survey by questionnaire
International Archives of Allergy and Applied Immunology
|January 1, 1981
Summary
Working with laboratory animals significantly increases allergy risks. Nearly 20% of animal workers developed allergic symptoms, compared to 13% of non-animal workers, with some needing to leave their jobs.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Allergology
- Immunology
Background:
- Occupational exposure to animals is common in laboratory settings.
- Allergic diseases are a significant cause of occupational morbidity.
- Previous studies suggest a link between animal exposure and allergic symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of allergic symptoms in individuals working with laboratory animals.
- To compare allergy rates in animal workers versus non-animal workers.
- To assess the impact of occupational allergies on employment.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted on 1,487 individuals.
- Participants were categorized into two groups: laboratory animal workers and those who never worked with animals.
- Data collected included the development of allergic symptoms and pre-employment atopy history.
Main Results:
- 19.5% of laboratory animal workers reported moderate to severe allergic symptoms, versus 13.4% in the control group.
- Animal workers showed significantly higher rates of asthma, sneezing, blocked nose, and smarting eyes.
- 9% of animal workers experienced work cessation due to allergies, either temporarily or permanently.
Conclusions:
- Working with laboratory animals is associated with a higher risk of developing allergic symptoms.
- Occupational allergies pose a considerable burden, potentially leading to job displacement.
- Further research into preventative measures for occupational allergies in animal handlers is warranted.