Prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among US working adults aged 40 to 70 years. National Health Interview Survey data 2004 to 2011.

Objective: To estimate the prevalence and prevalence odds ratios of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among US workers by major occupational groups.

Methods: The 2004 to 2011 National Health Interview Survey data for working adults 40 to 70 years old was analyzed to estimate the prevalence of COPD by major occupational groups. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the associations between COPD (chronic bronchitis or emphysema) and occupations.

Results: The estimated overall COPD prevalence was 4.2% (95% CI, 4.0 to 4.3). The odds of COPD were highest among workers in health care support occupations (prevalence odds ratio, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.25 to 2.14) followed by food preparation and serving-related occupations (prevalence odds ratio, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.20 to 2.06).

Conclusions: Prevalence varied by occupations, suggesting workplace exposures may contribute to COPD. Preventive measures such as interventions to reduce smoking may reduce the prevalence of COPD.