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Prevention of Occupational Asthma

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Abstract

Prevention of occupational asthma related to a work-sensitizing agent ideally would be achieved by avoidance of exposures that cause immunologic sensitization and subsequent asthma. There are a few examples in which a sensitizing agent has been removed from a work process and others in which exposure has been significantly changed or reduced with associated reduced rates of sensitization and disease. Additional measures include containment, use of robots, ventilation measures, exposure monitoring, and use of respiratory protective devices. Secondary prevention includes medical surveillance, which may involve periodic respiratory questionnaires, spirometry, and immunologic tests aiming to detect sensitization or disease early to allow intervention and improve outcomes. Education measures for workers to understand the meaning of work-related respiratory symptoms and appropriate workplace safety measures have not been formally evaluated but may also be expected to enhance protective measures and lead to earlier diagnosis. Tertiary prevention includes medical management and workers’ compensation.

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Disclosure

Dr. Tarlo has received research grant support from Ontario and British Columbia workers’ compensation systems. No other potential conflicts of interest relevant to this article were reported.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Toronto Western Hospital, EW7-449, 399 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2S8, Canada

    Susan M. Tarlo

  2. Gage Occupational and Environmental Health Unit, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

    Gary M. Liss

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  1. Susan M. Tarlo
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Correspondence to Susan M. Tarlo.

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Tarlo, S.M., Liss, G.M. Prevention of Occupational Asthma. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 10, 278–286 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-010-0118-y

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