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Female cleaners see an accelerated decline in lung
function as a direct result of their jobs, according
to new research released as part of the Healthy
Lungs for Life campaign.
The new research was presented at the European
Respiratory Society’s International Congress in
London from 3-7 September, which brings together the
brightest minds in lung health to discuss possible
breakthroughs.
The study looked at a sample of over 5,000
individuals from The European Community Respiratory
Health Survey (ECRHS) over a 20-year period and
shows that occupational cleaners had a 17% greater
decline in lung function compared to the average.
Even those engaged in cleaning at home were at
increased risk – experiencing a 14% greater decrease
in lung function over 20 years. Cleaning can expose
people to chemical agents like ammonia, which
irritate the airways, and other substances that can
cause allergic airway disease.
While previous studies have shown an increased risk
of COPD among occupational cleaners and, in fact,
that cleaners are among the occupations with the
highest risk of COPD, this is the first study
looking at the long-term consequences of exposure to
cleaning agents.
With lower lung function leaving people at greater
risk of respiratory health issues, the Healthy Lungs
for Life campaign is encouraging anyone who
experiences any lung symptoms at home or in the
workplace to talk to their GP and get their lungs
tested.
Oistein Svanes, consultant, PhD-student at the
University of Bergen, who authored the study, said:
“We need to start being much more aware of the
chemicals we’re releasing into the air we breathe
when we use things like cleaning spray.”
Commenting on the study, Professor Jørgen Vestbo,
President of ERS and Professor of Respiratory
Medicine at the University of Manchester, said:
“Cleaning products can put people’s health at risk.
So people should be aware of the risks and take
steps to mitigate against them – if people have
genuine concerns they should ensure that they
discuss any symptoms and the possible link with
their workplace with their doctor”.
For more information
The European Lung Foundation
Link...
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