1
|
Chuang YC, Tsai HH, Lin MC, Wu CC, Lin YC, Wang TN. Cluster analysis of phenotypes, job exposure, and inflammatory patterns in elderly and nonelderly asthma patients. Allergol Int 2024; 73:214-223. [PMID: 38290901 DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma has been identified as different phenotypes due to various risk factors. Age differences may have potential effects on asthma phenotypes. Our study aimed to identify potential asthma phenotypes among adults divided by age as either younger or older than 65 years. We also compared differences in blood granulocyte patterns, occupational asthmagens, and asthma control-related outcomes among patient phenotype clusters. METHODS We recruited nonelderly (<65 years old) (n = 726) and elderly adults (≥65 years old) (n = 201) with mild-to-severe asthma. We conducted a factor analysis to select 17 variables. A two-step cluster analysis was used to classify subjects with asthma phenotypes, and a discriminant analysis was used to verify the classification of cluster results. RESULTS There were three clusters with different characteristics identified in both the nonelderly and elderly asthmatic adults. In the nonelderly patient group, cluster 2 (obese, neutrophilic phenotypes) had a 1.85-fold significantly increased risk of asthma exacerbations. Cluster 3 (early-onset, atopy, and smoker with an eosinophil-predominant pattern) had a 2.37-fold risk of asthma exacerbations and higher oral corticosteroid (OCS) use than cluster 1 (late-onset and LMW exposure with paucigranulocytic blood pattern). Among elderly patients, cluster 2 had poor lung function and more ex-smokers. Cluster 3 (early-onset, long asthma duration) had the lowest paucigranulocytic blood pattern percentages in the elderly group. CONCLUSIONS The novelty of the clusters was found in age-dependent clusters. We identified three distinct phenotypes with heterogeneous characteristics, asthma exacerbations and medicine use in nonelderly and elderly asthmatic patients, respectively. Classification of age-stratified asthma phenotypes may lead to precise identification of patients, which provides personalized disease management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Chi Chuang
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hua Tsai
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Chih Lin
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Kaohsiung Medical Center, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Chien Wu
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Kaohsiung Medical Center, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Chung Lin
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tsu-Nai Wang
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Suojalehto H, Cullinan P. Work and Asthma. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:383-384. [PMID: 38336395 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.11.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Hille Suojalehto
- Occupational Medicine, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gandhi SA, Heinzerling A, Flattery J, Cummings KJ. Occupational Contributions to Respiratory Health Disparities. Clin Chest Med 2023; 44:635-649. [PMID: 37517841 PMCID: PMC10861114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccm.2023.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Occupation is an important contributor to disparities in respiratory disease, affecting financial status, health-care access, and exposure to hazardous substances. Although occupation and associated exposures are included in the socioecological models, work exposures remain persistently absent from research on health inequities and their contribution to health. This article focuses on the occupational contribution to disparities in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, silicosis, coronavirus disease 2019, and lung cancer. Because occupational exposures are largely preventable through proper workplace controls, the recognition of occupational causes of disease can provide an opportunity for interventions to bring about health equity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheiphali A Gandhi
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 2330 Post St Ste 460, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Amy Heinzerling
- Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Public Health, 850 Marina Bay Parkway P-3, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
| | - Jennifer Flattery
- Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Public Health, 850 Marina Bay Parkway P-3, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
| | - Kristin J Cummings
- Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Public Health, 850 Marina Bay Parkway P-3, Richmond, CA 94804, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dodd KE, Blackley DJ, Mazurek JM. Cardiovascular Disease Among Adults With Work-Related Asthma, 2012-2017. Am J Prev Med 2023; 64:194-203. [PMID: 36371324 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asthma is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, and adults with persistent, severe asthma have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease than adults with intermittent or no asthma. METHODS The objective of this cross-sectional study was to assess the association between work-related asthma status and cardiovascular disease among ever-employed adults (aged 18-64 years) with current asthma using data from the 2012-2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Asthma Call-Back Survey from 37 states and the District of Columbia. Weighted prevalence ratios and 95% CIs, adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, household income, smoking status, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and BMI, were calculated. In addition, the associations of cardiovascular disease with adverse asthma outcomes and asthma control among adults with work-related asthma were examined. Analyses were conducted in 2021. RESULTS Among an estimated annualized 14.8 million ever-employed adults aged 18-64 years with current asthma, adults with work-related asthma (prevalence ratio=1.5; 95% CI=1.2, 1.8) and possible work-related asthma (prevalence ratio=1.2; 95% CI=1.0, 1.5) were significantly more likely to have cardiovascular disease than adults with non-work-related asthma. Among adults with work-related asthma, those with very poorly controlled asthma (prevalence ratio=1.8; 95% CI=1.3, 2.5) and an asthma-related emergency room visit (prevalence ratio=1.5; 95% CI=1.1, 2.0) were significantly more likely to have cardiovascular disease. CONCLUSIONS Adults with work-related asthma were more likely to have cardiovascular disease than those with non-work-related asthma. Primary prevention, early diagnosis, and implementation of optimal work-related asthma management are essential for workers' health. Cardiovascular disease should be considered where appropriate when diagnosing and recommending treatment and interventions for adults with work-related asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katelynn E Dodd
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, West Virginia.
| | - David J Blackley
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Jacek M Mazurek
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, West Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Correia-DE-Sousa J, Vicente C, Brito D, Tsiligianni I, Kocks JW, Román-Rodriguez M, Baxter N, Maricoto T, Williams S. Managing asthma in primary healthcare. Minerva Med 2021; 112:582-604. [PMID: 34814633 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.21.07277-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Asthma brings considerable challenges for family doctors because of its variety of shapes, different levels of severity, a wide age range, and the fact that in the last decades clinicians are able to offer much better treatment options with a better level of disease control and a higher quality of life. The objectives of the current review article are to provide an up-to-date review by primary care respiratory leaders from different countries of the most significant challenges regarding asthma diagnosis and management, the importance of team work and the problems in recognizing and dealing with difficult-to-manage and severe asthma in primary care. The article provides a short review of the main challenges faced by family physicians and other primary health care professionals in supporting their patients in the management of asthma, such as asthma diagnosis, promoting access to spirometry, the importance of a multiprofessional team for the management of asthma, how to organize an asthma review, the promotion of patient autonomy and shared decision-making, improving the use of inhalers, the importance of the personalized asthma action plan, dealing with difficult-to-manage and severe asthma in primary care and choosing when, where and how to refer patients with severe asthma. The article also discusses the development of an integrated approach to asthma care in the community and the promotion of Asthma Right Care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Correia-DE-Sousa
- ICVS/3B's Associate Laboratory, Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal -
| | | | - Dinis Brito
- ICVS/3B's Associate Laboratory, Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,.7 Fontes Family Health Unit, ACES Cávado I - ARS Norte, Braga, Portugal
| | - Ioanna Tsiligianni
- International Primary Care Respiratory Group, Edinburgh, UK.,Health Planning Unit, Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Janwillem W Kocks
- International Primary Care Respiratory Group, Edinburgh, UK.,General Practitioners Research Institute, Groningen, the Netherlands.,GRIAC Research Institute, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.,Observational and Pragmatic Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Miguel Román-Rodriguez
- Primary Care Respiratory Research Unit, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Noel Baxter
- International Primary Care Respiratory Group, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tiago Maricoto
- Aveiro-Aradas Family Health Unit, Aveiro Health Center, Aveiro, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Siân Williams
- International Primary Care Respiratory Group, Edinburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Brigham E, Harris D, Carlsten C, Redlich CA. Occupational health disparities: The pandemic as prism and prod. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 148:1148-1150. [PMID: 34534567 PMCID: PMC8452464 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Brigham
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md.
| | - Drew Harris
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care,University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va
| | - Christopher Carlsten
- Division of Respirology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Carrie A Redlich
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine and Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mason P, Liviero F, Maestrelli P, Frigo AC. Long-Term Follow-Up of Cluster-Based Diisocyanate Asthma Phenotypes. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2021; 9:3380-3386. [PMID: 33940214 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2021.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on the outcome of occupational asthma (OA) are heterogeneous. OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of being part of a specific cluster at diagnosis on the long-term outcome of diisocyanate-induced OA. METHODS We collected data from 56 patients who had a diagnosis of OA confirmed by a positive specific inhalation challenge. Patients sensitized to toluene diisocyanate were allocated to cluster 1 or 2 based on a tree analysis, using the 3 variables relevant for cluster segregation identified in a previous study: age, body mass index, and forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity at diagnosis. Patients sensitized to methylene diisocyanate were allocated to cluster 3, as in previous study. We defined OA remission when a patient had met a total of 3 criteria: no asthma symptoms and no antiasthma therapy for the last year, as well as having normal lung function. RESULTS At follow-up, 16 patients showed OA remission. They exhibited better lung function, less bronchial hyperreactivity, as well as younger age at diagnosis. Twenty-eight patients were allocated to cluster 1, 10 to cluster 2, and 18 to cluster 3. The percentage of patients with OA remission was higher in cluster 2 (50% vs 25% in cluster 1 and 22.5% in cluster 3), although the difference was not statistically significant (P = .2789). CONCLUSIONS Age at diagnosis was a strong predictor of OA remission. The outcome of diisocyanate OA tended to be more favorable for patients with toluene diisocyanate OA allocated in cluster 2, but this finding needs to be validated by further data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Mason
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Filippo Liviero
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Piero Maestrelli
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Anna Chiara Frigo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ash JS, Chase D, Baron S, Filios MS, Shiffman RN, Marovich S, Wiesen J, Luensman GB. Clinical Decision Support for Worker Health: A Five-Site Qualitative Needs Assessment in Primary Care Settings. Appl Clin Inform 2020; 11:635-643. [PMID: 32998170 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1715895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although patients who work and have related health issues are usually first seen in primary care, providers in these settings do not routinely ask questions about work. Guidelines to help manage such patients are rarely used in primary care. Electronic health record (EHR) systems with worker health clinical decision support (CDS) tools have potential for assisting these practices. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to identify the need for, and barriers and facilitators related to, implementation of CDS tools for the clinical management of working patients in a variety of primary care settings. METHODS We used a qualitative design that included analysis of interview transcripts and observational field notes from 10 clinics in five organizations. RESULTS We interviewed 83 providers, staff members, managers, informatics and information technology experts, and leaders and spent 35 hours observing. We identified eight themes in four categories related to CDS for worker health (operational issues, usefulness of proposed CDS, effort and time-related issues, and topic-specific issues). These categories were classified as facilitators or barriers to the use of the CDS tools. Facilitators related to operational issues include current technical feasibility and new work patterns associated with the coordinated care model. Facilitators concerning usefulness include users' need for awareness and evidence-based tools, appropriateness of the proposed CDS for their patients, and the benefits of population health data. Barriers that are effort-related include additional time this proposed CDS might take, and other pressing organizational priorities. Barriers that are topic-specific include sensitive issues related to health and work and the complexities of information about work. CONCLUSION We discovered several themes not previously described that can guide future CDS development: technical feasibility of the proposed CDS within commercial EHRs, the sensitive nature of some CDS content, and the need to assist the entire health care team in managing worker health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan S Ash
- Department of Medical Informatics and Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Dian Chase
- Department of Medical Informatics and Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Sherry Baron
- Department of Urban Studies, Barry Commoner Center for Health and the Environment, Queens College, City University of New York, New York, New York, United States
| | - Margaret S Filios
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio and Morgantown, West Virginia, United States
| | - Richard N Shiffman
- Yale Center for Medical Informatics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Stacey Marovich
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio and Morgantown, West Virginia, United States
| | - Jane Wiesen
- Department of Medical Informatics and Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Genevieve B Luensman
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio and Morgantown, West Virginia, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
MacKinnon M, To T, Ramsey C, Lemière C, Lougheed MD. Improving detection of work-related asthma: a review of gaps in awareness, reporting and knowledge translation. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2020; 16:73. [PMID: 32922457 PMCID: PMC7477867 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-020-00470-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Work-related asthma (WRA) accounts for up to 25% of all adults with asthma. Early diagnosis is key for optimal management as delays in diagnosis are associated with worse outcomes. However, WRA is significantly underreported and the median time to diagnosis is 4 years. The objective of this review is to identify the gaps in awareness and reporting of WRA and identify gaps in current knowledge translation strategies for chronic disease in general, and asthma specifically. This will identify reasons for delays in WRA diagnosis, as well inform suggestions to improve knowledge translation strategies for dissemination and implementation of WRA prevention and management guidelines. Methods Non-systematic literature reviews were conducted on PubMed with a focus on work-related asthma screening and diagnosis, and knowledge translation or translational medicine research in asthma and chronic disease. In total, 3571 titles and abstracts were reviewed with no restriction on date published. Of those, 207 were relevant and fully read. Another 37 articles were included and reviewed after citation reviews of articles from the initial search and from suggestions from editors. In total, 63 articles were included in the final review. Results Patients, employers, and healthcare professionals lack awareness and under-report WRA which contribute to the delayed diagnosis of WRA, primarily through lack of education, stigma associated with WRA, and lack of awareness and screening in primary care. Knowledge translation strategies for asthma research typically involve the creation of guidelines for diagnosis of the disease, asthma care plans and tools for education and management. While there are some prevention programs in place for certain industries, gaps in knowledge translation strategies including lack of screening tools currently available for WRA, poor education of employers and physicians in identifying WRA, and education of patients is often done post-diagnosis and focuses on management rather than prevention or screening. Conclusion Future knowledge translation strategies should focus on educating employees and employers well before potential exposure to agents associated with WRA and screening for WRA in primary care to enable health care providers to recognize and diagnose WRA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madison MacKinnon
- Asthma Research Unit, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, 72 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada.,Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, 102 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V6 Canada
| | - Teresa To
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Research Institute, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Clare Ramsey
- Department of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 810 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB R3A1R9 Canada
| | - Catherine Lemière
- Department of Chest Medicine, CIUSSS du nord de l'île de Montréal, Hôpital du Sacré-Cœur de Montréal, 5400 Gouin West, Montreal, QC H4J 1C5 Canada
| | - M Diane Lougheed
- Asthma Research Unit, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, 72 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada.,Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, 102 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V6 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Use of population data for assessing trends in work-related asthma mortality. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2020; 19:98-104. [PMID: 30601151 DOI: 10.1097/aci.0000000000000508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Work-related asthma has been associated with poorer asthma control and frequent unscheduled healthcare visits, and can be fatal. Case reports of work-related asthma deaths are rare, but can initiate efforts to prevent additional cases. We reviewed relevant literature and data sources to evaluate whether analyzing mortality data at the population level can help identify potential sources of exposures that contribute to work-related asthma. RECENT FINDINGS A limited number of population-based studies have addressed work-related asthma mortality. Data on asthma mortality are derived from death certificates using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) as a standard for coding cause. However, no discrete code for work-related asthma is available. Analysis of asthma mortality relative to industries and occupations appears to identify high-risk jobs that were not identified by analyzing asthma morbidity data. SUMMARY Beyond recognized work-related asthma deaths, it is possible that occupational exposures have contributed to other asthma deaths that have gone unnoticed and could potentially be identified by the analysis of mortality data at the population level. Such analyses in the United States appear to assist in recognizing high-risk occupations and industries. Additional analyses would be possible if a work-related asthma ICD code were available.
Collapse
|
11
|
Lau A, Tarlo SM. Update on the Management of Occupational Asthma and Work-Exacerbated Asthma. ALLERGY, ASTHMA & IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2019; 11:188-200. [PMID: 30661311 PMCID: PMC6340795 DOI: 10.4168/aair.2019.11.2.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Work-related asthma is the most common occupational lung disease encountered in clinical practice. In adult asthmatics, work-relatedness can account for 15%-33% of cases, but delays in diagnosis remain common and lead to worse outcomes. Accurate diagnosis of asthma is the first step to managing occupational asthma, which can be sensitizer-induced or irritant-induced asthma. While latency has traditionally been recognized as a hallmark of sensitizer-induced asthma and rapid-onset a defining feature of irritant-induced asthma (as in Reactive Airway Dysfunction Syndrome), there is epidemiological evidence for irritant-induced asthma with latency from chronic moderate exposure. Diagnostic testing while the patient is still in the workplace significantly improves sensitivity. While specific inhalational challenges remain the gold-standard for the diagnosis of occupational asthma, they are not available outside of specialized centers. Commonly available tests including bronchoprovocation challenges and peak flow monitoring are important tools for practicing clinicians. Management of sensitizer-induced occupational asthma is notable for the central importance of removal from the causative agent: ideally, removal of the culprit agent; but if not feasible, this may require changes in the work process or ultimately, removal of the worker from the workplace. While workers' compensation programs may reduce income loss, these are not universal and there can be significant socio-economic impact from work-related asthma. Primary prevention remains the preferred method of reducing the burden of occupational asthma, which may include modification to work processes, better worker education and substitution of sensitizing agents from the workplace with safer compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ambrose Lau
- Respiratory Division, Department of Medicine, Toronto Western Hospital and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan M Tarlo
- Respiratory Division, Department of Medicine, Toronto Western Hospital and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Shum J, Poureslami I, Wiebe D, Doyle-Waters MM, Nimmon L, FitzGerald JM. Airway diseases and health literacy (HL) measurement tools: A systematic review to inform respiratory research and practice. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2018; 101:596-618. [PMID: 29107399 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and evaluate asthma/COPD measurement tools that assess any of the five health literacy (HL) domains: (1) access, (2) understand, (3) evaluate, (4) communicate, and (5) use, as well as numeracy. METHODS MEDLINE/Embase (via Ovid) databases from 1974 to 2016 were searched and complimented by grey literature. Study selection and data extraction were conducted by two reviewers independently. RESULTS We identified 65 tools including 40 asthma, 22 COPD, and 3 asthma/COPD focused tools. Thirty tools had been validated and two assessed all five domains. The 'understand' domain was captured in 49 tools, followed by 'access' in 29 tools, 'use' in 24 tools, 'evaluate' in 20 tools, and 'communicate' in 10 tools. Two tools assessed 'numeracy'. Tool content comprised disease physiology, triggers, symptoms, inhaler technique, self-management practices, and rehab programs. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights paucity of HL tools that have been validated and/or assess the 'communicate' domain and makes a valuable contribution to filling an existing research gap in the field of HL by determining the deficiencies of such tools. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Our review uncovers which HL domains are under-measured, justifying the need to develop an airways HL measurement tool which applies the 5-domain model for asthma/COPD management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Shum
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Gordon and Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre, 7th floor, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada; Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, The University of British Columbia, 7th floor, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada.
| | - Iraj Poureslami
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Gordon and Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre, 7th floor, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada; Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, The University of British Columbia, 7th floor, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada.
| | - Darrin Wiebe
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, The University of British Columbia, 7th floor, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada.
| | - Mary M Doyle-Waters
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, The University of British Columbia, 7th floor, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada.
| | - Laura Nimmon
- Centre for Health Education Scholarship (CHES), Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, The University of British Columbia, P.A. Woodward Instructional Resources Centre (IRC), 429-2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - J Mark FitzGerald
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Gordon and Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre, 7th floor, 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada; Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, The University of British Columbia, 7th floor, 828 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Moscato G. Occupational Allergic Airway Disease. CURRENT OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40136-017-0170-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
14
|
Harber P, Redlich CA, Hines S, Filios M, Storey E. Recommendations for a Clinical Decision Support System for Work-Related Asthma in Primary Care Settings. J Occup Environ Med 2017; 59:e231-e235. [PMID: 29023337 PMCID: PMC6282164 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe a recommended clinical decision support (CDS) approach for work-related asthma for incorporation in electronic health records (EHRs) for primary care health care providers. METHODS Subject matter experts convened by the American Thoracic Society reviewed available guidelines and published literature to develop specific recommendations. RESULTS It is important to recognize possible work-related asthma among persons with new-onset or worsening asthma. The work group recommends incorporating three simple questions about temporal relations between asthma symptoms and work in EHR systems and identified specific clinical conditions to trigger this intervention. Patients with positive responses to the three questions should have the asthma diagnosis documented and have further evaluation, education, and possible referral. CONCLUSION An effective CDS system for improving recognition of work-related asthma may help reduce morbidity and mortality of asthma in adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip Harber
- Department of Community, Environment, and Policy. Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University Of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Carrie A. Redlich
- Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Connecticut USA
| | - Stella Hines
- Department of Medicine, University Of Maryland, Baltimore Maryland
| | - Margaret Filios
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Eileen Storey
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, WV, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fischer J, Ohmer M, Petersen M. The Weekday Wheezer. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2017. [PMID: 28633529 DOI: 10.1177/0009922817715940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Fischer
- 1 Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Megan Ohmer
- 1 Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Maureen Petersen
- 2 Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ash JS, Chase D, Wiesen JF, Murphy EV, Marovich S. Studying Readiness for Clinical Decision Support for Worker Health Using the Rapid Assessment Process and Mixed Methods Interviews. AMIA ... ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM PROCEEDINGS. AMIA SYMPOSIUM 2017; 2016:285-294. [PMID: 28269822 PMCID: PMC5333245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
To determine how the Rapid Assessment Process (RAP) can be adapted to evaluate the readiness of primary care clinics for acceptance and use of computerized clinical decision support (CDS) related to clinical management of working patients, we used a unique blend of ethnographic methods for gathering data. First, knowledge resources, which were prototypes of CDS content areas (diabetes, lower back pain, and asthma) containing evidence-based information, decision logic, scenarios and examples of use, were developed by subject matter experts. A team of RAP researchers then visited five clinic settings to identify barriers and facilitators to implementing CDS about the health of workers in general and the knowledge resources specifically. Methods included observations, semi-structured qualitative interviews and graphic elicitation interviews about the knowledge resources. We used both template and grounded hermeneutic approaches to data analysis. Preliminary results indicate that the methods succeeded in generating specific actionable recommendations for CDS design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan S Ash
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Dian Chase
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jane F Wiesen
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Iachan R, Pierannunzi C, Healey K, Greenlund KJ, Town M. National weighting of data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). BMC Med Res Methodol 2016; 16:155. [PMID: 27842500 PMCID: PMC5109644 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-016-0255-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) is a network of health-related telephone surveys--conducted by all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and participating US territories—that receive technical assistance from CDC. Data users often aggregate BRFSS state samples for national estimates without accounting for state-level sampling, a practice that could introduce bias because the weighted distributions of the state samples do not always adhere to national demographic distributions. Methods This article examines six methods of reweighting, which are then compared with key health indicator estimates from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) based on 2013 data. Results Compared to the usual stacking approach, all of the six new methods reduce the variance of weights and design effect at the national level, and some also reduce the estimated bias. This article also provides a comparison of the methods based on the variances induced by unequal weighting as well as the bias reduction induced by raking at the national level, and recommends a preferred method. Conclusions The new method leads to weighted distributions that more accurately reproduce national demographic characteristics. While the empirical results for key estimates were limited to a few health indicators, they also suggest reduction in potential bias and mean squared error. To the extent that survey outcomes are associated with these demographic characteristics, matching the national distributions will reduce bias in estimates of these outcomes at the national level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronaldo Iachan
- ICF International, 530 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA.
| | - Carol Pierannunzi
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, N.E, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Kristie Healey
- ICF International, 530 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA
| | - Kurt J Greenlund
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, N.E, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Machell Town
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, N.E, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| |
Collapse
|