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Asthma is a condition where the bronchial tubes that branch from the lungs become constricted due to spasm or swelling. The characteristic breathing difficulties and wheezing may be caused by an allergic reaction or from irritating particles in the air. Concentrated outbreaks of asthma have been noted in Barcelona, Spain, particularly near the harbor communities. There was a strong association between asthma outbreaks and the unloading of wheat products from local ships. It was assumed, therefore, that material unloaded from ships might contain the irritant responsible for the increase in emergency room admissions for treatment of asthma. The uncovered silos used for soybean storage and the movement of air containing soybean dust from the harbor to the city were found to be responsible for the outbreaks. It is suggested that soybean dust be considered the possible cause of bronchial asthma outbreaks in Barcelona, Spain.