Occupational exposure to chemicals drives the increased risk of asthma and rhinitis observed for exposure to vapours, gas, dust and fumes: a cross-sectional population-based study.

Objectives: Occupational exposure to the composite measure vapours, gases, dusts and fumes (VGDF), contribute to the burden of asthma and rhinitis. The objective was to evaluate occupational exposure to VGDF, which is further divided into the components chemicals, organic and inorganic dust in relation to asthma and rhinitis.

Methods: Previously examined participants from three population-based cohorts in the Obstructive Lung disease In Northern Sweden (OLIN) studies were re-examined during 2002-2004.

Occupational exposure to dust, gases and fumes, a family history of asthma and impaired respiratory health.

Objectives: This study assessed the impact of occupational exposure to dust, gases, and fumes on respiratory symptoms, obstructive lung diseases, or the use of asthma medication among persons with and without a family history of asthma.

Methods: A population-based cohort was followed for 10 years. This study included all 1739 men and 1594 women occupationally active at the first survey.

Exposure-response of silicosis mortality in Swedish iron ore miners.

Objectives: To assess the exposure-response relationship between exposure to quartz and fatal silicosis.

Methods: The mortality from silicosis in 7729 miners was analyzed and compared to their estimated exposure to respirable quartz. The miners had been working as a miner for at least 1 year between 1923 and 1996.

Persistence of respiratory symptoms in ex-underground iron ore miners.

Aims: To assess the persistence of respiratory symptoms in ex-miners after cessation of mining exposure.

Methods: Population-based cross-sectional study using a postal questionnaire comparing prevalence of symptoms between ex-miners who had stopped mining at least 1 year before the study and referents not occupationally exposed to irritants or dust. Age, smoking and a family history of asthma were considered as possible confounders in the analysis.

Respiratory symptoms and obstructive lung diseases in iron ore miners: report from the obstructive lung disease in northern Sweden studies.

This is a population-based study on the prevalence of respiratory symptoms assessed by a mail questionnaire. The objective was to examine if work in an iron mine increased the risk of airway symptoms or obstructive diseases. The exposed group consisted of 114 previous or current male miners.