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Occupational asthma in New Zealanders: a population based study
D Fishwick1, N Pearce, W D'Souza
1Wellington Asthma Research Group, Wellington School of Medicine, New Zealand.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Certain occupations, including farming and food processing, are linked to increased risks of asthma symptoms and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR). This study highlights the impact of occupational exposures on respiratory health in adults aged 20-44.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Respiratory medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Occupational exposures are a significant factor in respiratory health.
- Understanding the link between specific jobs and respiratory conditions is crucial for public health.
- Previous research indicates a potential association between certain industries and asthma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between occupation and respiratory symptoms in a randomly selected adult population.
- To identify specific occupational groups with a higher prevalence of asthma and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR).
Main Methods:
- A population-based study using data from the European Community respiratory health survey in New Zealand.
- 1609 adults (aged 20-44) completed questionnaires and underwent spirometry and methacholine challenge tests.
- Occupations were categorized into 21 groups to analyze associations with asthma definitions and BHR.
Main Results:
- Farmers and farm workers showed significantly increased odds ratios for wheezing combined with BHR.
- Increased asthma prevalence was observed in laboratory technicians, food processors, chemical workers, and plastic/rubber workers.
- The attributable risk of occupational wheezing was estimated at 1.9%, rising to 3.1% with broader inclusion of high-risk occupations.
Conclusions:
- Specific occupations are significantly associated with a combination of asthmatic symptoms and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR).
- This population-based study underscores the importance of considering occupational factors in the diagnosis and prevention of respiratory diseases.