A case-control study of airways obstruction among construction workers.

Authors :: Dement J
Welch L
Ringen K
Quinn P
Chen A
Haas S
Source :: American journal of industrial medicine [Am J Ind Med] 2015 Oct; Vol. 58 (10), pp. 1083-97. Date of Electronic Publication: 2015 Jun 29.
Publication Year :: 2015
Abstract: Background: While smoking is the major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), occupational exposures to vapors, gases, dusts, and fumes (VGDF) increase COPD risk. This case-control study estimated the risk of COPD attributable to occupational exposures among construction workers.<br />Methods: The study population included 834 cases and 1243 controls participating in a national medical screening program for older construction workers between 1997 and 2013. Qualitative exposure indices were developed based on lifetime work and exposure histories.<br />Results: Approximately 18% (95% CI = 2-24%) of COPD risk can be attributed to construction-related exposures, which are additive to the risk contributed by smoking. A measure of all VGDF exposures combined was a strong predictor of COPD risk.<br />Conclusions: Construction workers are at increased risk of COPD as a result of broad and complex effects of many exposures acting independently or interactively. Control methods should be implemented to prevent worker exposures, and smoking cessation should be promoted.<br /> (© 2015 The Authors. American Journal of Industrial Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)