Exposure-response relations for work related respiratory symptoms and sensitisation in a cohort exposed to α-amylase. Issue 6 (18th May 2004)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brisman, J; Nieuwenhuijsen, M J; Venables, K M; Putcha, V; Gordon, S; Taylor, A J N
• Is Part Of: Occupational and environmental medicine. Volume 61:Issue 6(2004)
• Page Start: 551
• Page End: 553
• Publication Date: 2004-05-18
• Subjects: exposure-response relations -- α-amylase -- cohort study; Medicine, Industrial -- Periodicals; Environmental health -- Periodicals; 616.980305
• DOI: 10.1136/oem.2002.006395
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1351-0711

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: To explore relations between exposure to fungal α-amylase and the risk of new work related respiratory symptoms or sensitisation. Methods: A prospective cohort study among 300 bakers and millers was followed up for a maximum of seven years. Exposure to α-amylase was estimated by air measurements and questionnaires and classified into three categories. Symptoms were recorded with a self-administered questionnaire and skin sensitisation assessed using skin prick test (SPT). Results: There were 36 new cases of chest symptoms, 86 of eyes/nose symptoms, and 24 of a positive SPT to α-amylase. There were exposure-response relations for chest and eyes/nose symptoms and for sensitisation, and a significantly increased prevalence ratio for chest symptoms in the highest exposure category. Conclusion: A reduction in α-amylase exposure is likely to reduce the risk for respiratory morbidity in bakery workers.