Chest symptoms in chimney sweeps and postmen--a comparative survey.
The purpose of this survey was to study the association between a number of chronic diseases and occupational exposure to soot and smoke. The problem was illustrated by comparing chimney sweeps and postmen with regard to self-reported occurrence of symptoms. Data were obtained by means of a postal questionnaire. Potential confounding was controlled by matching and stratified analysis. Compared to postmen, the chimney sweeps experienced a significantly increased risk of long-term coughing with expectorate (Prevalence Rate Ratio (PRR) = 1.74), dyspnoea from fast walking (PRR = 1.46), dyspnoea from ordinary walking (PRR = 1.79), dyspnoea when dressing (PRR = 2.29) and substernal oppression from exposure to cold or physical strain (PRR = 1.41). It seems likely that the chimney sweep's inhalation of soot particles and locally irritating flue gases may have contributed to the increased occurrence of chest symptoms in this occupational group.
Hansen
E S
ES
Department of Social Medicine, Institute of Community Health, Odense, Denmark.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004781:Environmental Exposure; D006801:Humans; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011177:Postal Service; D012140:Respiratory Tract Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology; D012907:Smoking