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. 2003 Oct;44(4):368-76.
doi: 10.1002/ajim.10291.

Occupational exposures associated with work-related asthma and work-related wheezing among U.S. workers

Ahmed A Arif  1 , George L Delclos, Lawrence W Whitehead, Susan R Tortolero, Eun S Lee
Affiliations

Occupational exposures associated with work-related asthma and work-related wheezing among U.S. workers

Ahmed A Arif et al. Am J Ind Med. 2003 Oct.

Abstract

Background: National estimates of occupational asthma (OA) in the United States are sparse.

Methods: Using data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) 1988-1994, we analyzed associations between occupation and work-related asthma and work-related wheezing among U.S. workers.

Results: This study identified several occupations that were at risk of developing work-related asthma and/or wheezing, with cleaners and equipment cleaners showing the highest risks. Other major occupations identified were farm and agriculture; entertainment; protective services; construction; mechanics and repairers; textile; fabricators and assemblers; other transportation and material moving occupations; freight, stock, and material movers; and motor vehicle operators. The population attributable risks for work-related asthma and work-related wheezing were 26% and 27%, respectively.

Conclusions: This study adds evidence to the literature that identifies work-related asthma as an important public health problem. Several occupations are targeted for additional evaluation and study. Of particular interest are cleaners, which are being increasingly reported as a risk group for asthma. Future intervention strategies need to be developed for effective control and prevention of asthma in the workplace.

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