[Polyneuropathies caused by glues in inhabitants of Montebelluna in the decade 1979-1988].
Sixty-seven incident cases of polyneuropathy (PNP) occurred among shoe workers exposed to solvents in the last ten years (1979-1988) in the Montebelluna area (Veneto region, northern Italy). They have been identified by the Occupational Health Service implementing a surveillance system. Around 700 shoe factories are active in this area with more than 6,000 workers. The disease has been diagnosed by means of neurological investigation and electroneuromyographical examination; it appears always as subclinical. The National Institute of Compensation (INAIL) confirmed the case series. In the present study data are discussed on the personal characteristics of the cases, including an evaluation of social and health consequences of the disease, and the work environment where PNP cases arose; attention is posed on the chemicals used, on jobs performed by the workers, and on duration of exposure. The study stresses the need to improve further the work conditions where solvents are used and to maintain a surveillance system for this occupational disease.
Grazioli
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Prevenzione Sicurezza Ambienti Lavoro, USL n. 4 del Veneto, Feltre BL.
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D000269:Adhesives / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology; D012775:Shoes; D012997:Solvents / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000269:Adhesives; D012997:Solvents
Polineuropatia da collanti nel Montebellunese nel decennio 1979/88.