Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of job exposure on chronic respiratory symptoms, lung function, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) in indoor female cleaners, along with the relationship between respiratory symptoms, sensitization to dust allergens and BHR. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 57 indoor female cleaners aged 19-61 years. In addition, 55 female office workers aged 20 to 60 years were examined as a control. Evaluation of examined subjects included completion of a questionnaire on respiratory symptoms, spirometry and histamine challenge (PC20≤8 mg/mL), and skin prick tests (SPT). Results: Prevalence of overall respiratory symptoms was significantly higher in indoor cleaners (35.1% vs 14.5%, P<0.05). Significantly higher prevalence of individual respiratory symptoms was registered for cough (21.1% vs 7.3%, P<0.01), dyspnea (17.5% vs 5.5%, P<0.05), and wheezing (15.8% vs 3.6%, P<0.05). All spirometric parameters were lower in indoor cleaners, being significant for MEF50, and MEF25. Prevalence of BHR was non-significantly higher in indoor cleaners (19.2% vs. 12.7%, P>0.05), whereas significantly higher prevalence was registered for borderline BHR (10.5% vs. 3.6%, P<0.05). Positive SPT to dust allergens were present in 12 of 57 indoor cleaners and in 3 of 55 of the office controls (P=0.0319). There was no significant correlation between respiratory symptoms, BHR, and positive SPT to dust allergens. Conclusion: Results suggest significant adverse respiratory effects in indoor cleaners, whose indoor dust exposure is associated with a higher prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms, lung function impairment, and relatively high sensitization ratios to dust allergens.