Occupation and adult onset of rhinitis in the general population

Objectives: Occupational exposures have been associated with an
increased risk of new-onset rhinitis in apprentices. However,
population-based prospective data are scarce and do not cover new
onset of rhinitis later in life. The authors studied the
association between occupational exposure and adult onset of
rhinitis prospectively.Methods: The data of 4994 participants (age
at follow-up 28--57 years) from 27 centres of the European
Community Respiratory Health Survey II who were symptom-free at
baseline were analysed. As outcome at follow-up self-reported (a)
nasal allergies (``allergic rhinitis'') and (b) runny, blocked nose
for 12 months a year (``perennial rhinitis'') were used.
Occupational exposures at any time during follow-up were defined by
job title.Results: The cumulative incidence of allergic rhinitis,
perennial rhinitis and both conditions was 12%, 11% and 3%,
respectively. Compared to office workers, male medical
professionals were at increased risk of new onset of allergic
rhinitis (OR 3.0; 95% CI 1.4 to 6.4). Odds ratios were reduced in
metal workers not involved in metal making or treating (0.3; 95% CI
0.1 to 0.7). For perennial rhinitis ORs were significantly
increased in cleaners (1.4; 95% CI 1.0 to 2.1).Conclusions:
Cleaners and medical professionals may be at increased risk for
adult-onset rhinitis.