Caress SM, Steinemann AC. National prevalence of asthma and chemical hypersensitivity: an examination of potential overlap.
J Occup Environ Med 2005;
47:518-22. [PMID:
15891531 DOI:
10.1097/01.jom.0000161736.54099.44]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to investigate the linkage between asthma and chemical hypersensitivity.
METHODS
The authors conducted a population study with a random sample of 1057 geographically weighted cases to determine the prevalence of both asthma and chemical hypersensitivity in the American population and to explore their co-occurrence.
RESULTS
A total of 14.1% of the respondents reported being diagnosed with asthma and 11.2% reported a hypersensitivity to chemicals. Of those with asthma, 27.2% also reported being hypersensitive to chemicals and 7.4% reported also being diagnosed with multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS). Of those diagnosed with MCS, 42% reported also being diagnosed with asthma. Additionally, 29.7% of those with asthma said air fresheners caused breathing difficulties, and 37.2% found scented products irritating.
CONCLUSIONS
The results indicate that there is significant overlap between some forms of asthma and chemical hypersensitivity.
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