Population-based study of non-infectious rhinitis in relation to occupational exposure, age, sex, and smoking.
BACKGROUND
Many types of occupational exposure are associated with the risk of non-infectious rhinitis. We investigate the risk factors for this association.


METHODS
A random population of 2,044 subjects (aged 21-51) answered a questionnaire that was comprised of detailed questions on occupational exposure, nasal complaints, and smoking. NIR was defined as the sensation of nasal blockage and/or attacks of sneezing without having a cold. The incidence rates for NIR among exposed and unexposed were calculated. In the different exposed groups, only NIR with onset after the start of exposure was regarded as exposed. If a subject reported NIR before the relevant exposure started, he/she was excluded from that analysis. Relative risks (RR) were calculated as incidence rate ratios. Odds ratios controlling for smoking, age, and atopy were also calculated.


RESULTS
The incidence rate for NIR was 13.5/1,000 person-years. Males exposed to fire fumes (RR 2.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.5-4.1), women exposed to paper dust (RR 2.0, 95% CI 1.5-2.9), and male cleaners (RR 3.1, 95% CI 1.9-5.1) displayed an increased risk of developing NIR. Smoking was associated with an increased risk of NIR for both sexes.


CONCLUSIONS
Exposure to several occupational irritants is associated with a higher risk of developing NIR.
Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden.
Johan
J
Hellgren
Linnea
L
Lillienberg
Jan
J
Jarlstedt
Göran
G
Karlsson
Kjell
K
Torén
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D016001:Confidence Intervals; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D009790:Occupations; D016017:Odds Ratio; D011897:Random Allocation; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012220:Rhinitis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D012306:Risk; D012307:Risk Factors; D012737:Sex Factors; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013548:Sweden / Q000453:epidemiology