National prevalence of asthma and chemical hypersensitivity: an examination of potential overlap.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to investigate the linkage between asthma and chemical hypersensitivity.


METHODS
The authors conducted a population study with a random sample of 1057 geographically weighted cases to determine the prevalence of both asthma and chemical hypersensitivity in the American population and to explore their co-occurrence.


RESULTS
A total of 14.1% of the respondents reported being diagnosed with asthma and 11.2% reported a hypersensitivity to chemicals. Of those with asthma, 27.2% also reported being hypersensitive to chemicals and 7.4% reported also being diagnosed with multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS). Of those diagnosed with MCS, 42% reported also being diagnosed with asthma. Additionally, 29.7% of those with asthma said air fresheners caused breathing difficulties, and 37.2% found scented products irritating.


CONCLUSIONS
The results indicate that there is significant overlap between some forms of asthma and chemical hypersensitivity.
Caress
Stanley M
SM
State University of West Georgia, Carrollton, Georgia, USA. scaress@westga.edu
Steinemann
Anne C
AC
D001249:Asthma / Q000453:epidemiology*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D015897:Comorbidity; D018876:Environmental Illness / Q000453:epidemiology*; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D017678:Sex Distribution; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology