Prevalence of crab asthma in crab plant workers in Newfoundland and Labrador

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of snow crab sensitisation and occupational asthma.

Study design: Prevalence study of symptoms, pulmonary function testing and allergy testing to crab was conducted in four crab plants of different design in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

Methods: Plants workers in four crab plants were interviewed and offered skin testing, RAST, pulmonary function testing and peak flow monitoring before and during crab processing.

Results: 38% (n=78) had atopy. 18% (n=39) had certain or highly probable crab asthma. The prevalence of sensitisation in different crab plants varied from 50% (n=19) to 15% (n=16) and the prevalence of certain or highly probable crab asthma varied from 50% (n=19) to 9% (n=3).

Conclusion: Crab asthma and sensitisation to snow crab is a major health problem for snow crab plant workers in Newfoundland and Labrador.