The Unseen Dangers of Respiratory-Induced

Understanding the Impact of Work-Related Asthma

As Asthma Awareness initiatives gain momentum, it’s crucial to shed light on a often overlooked yet preventable form of respiratory disease: occupational asthma. This work-related condition can significantly impact an individual’s health, productivity, and quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore the alarming statistics, high-risk professions, and preventive measures associated with occupational asthma.

The Alarming Statistics of Occupational Asthma

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), asthma affects approximately 340 million people globally. In the United States alone, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 25 million individuals suffer from asthma. Even more concerning is the prevalence of occupational asthma:

• The American Lung Association (ALA) estimates that 10-15% of asthma cases are work-related.
• This translates to approximately 3.5-5.25 million people in the United States affected by occupational asthma.

What is Occupational Asthma?

Occupational asthma, also known as work-related asthma (WRA), is a type of asthma caused or exacerbated by exposure to toxins, irritants, or allergens in the workplace. Initial symptoms may include:

• Occasional wheezing
• General malaise
• Sneezing fits

However, by the time these symptoms appear, it may already be too late to prevent long-term damage.

High-Risk Professions for Occupational Asthma

Certain professions are more susceptible to developing occupational asthma due to the nature of their work environment. These include:

1. Manufacturing and production workers
2. Healthcare professionals
3. Farmers and agricultural workers
4. Construction workers
5. Food processing workers (including bakers and grain handlers)

The Triple Threat for Self-Employed Workers

Self-employed individuals in high-risk trades face a triple threat:

1. Loss of earning ability
2. Loss of income
3. Damage to health

Recognising the Symptoms of Occupational Asthma

Occupational asthma can manifest in various ways, including:

• Worsening of existing asthma symptoms
• New onset of asthma-like symptoms (wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath)
• Fatigue, headaches, and general malaise

The Consequences of Untreated Occupational Asthma

If left untreated or unmanaged, occupational asthma can lead to severe consequences:

• Reduced productivity and quality of life
• Decreased job performance and increased absenteeism
• Increased healthcare costs and hospitalisations
• Permanent lung damage and reduced lung function

Preventing Occupational Asthma: Employer Responsibilities

Employers can take several steps to reduce the risk of occupational asthma development:

1. Identify and eliminate or minimise exposures to known asthma triggers
2. Implement proper ventilation and dust control measures
3. Conduct regular monitoring and testing for airborne pollutants
4. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper training

The Role of Technology in Preventing Occupational Asthma

Advanced technology can play a crucial role in mitigating the risks of occupational asthma. Greentech offers innovative solutions that:

• Actively clean the air in real-time
• Go beyond traditional PPE barriers
• Reduce exposure to asthma triggers
• Help prevent the development of occupational asthma

Taking Action Against Occupational Asthma

Occupational asthma is a preventable condition that affects millions of workers worldwide. By understanding the risks, recognising the symptoms, and implementing effective preventive measures, both employers and employees can create safer, healthier work environments.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take action now to protect yourself and your workforce from the hidden hazard of occupational asthma. Reach out to Greentech today to learn how our NASA-approved technology can help safeguard your workplace and employees’ health.