title: [Work-related COPD].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Work-related COPD occurs as a result of exposure to harmful particles and gases/fumes in the workplace, including among non-smokers. The objective of this article is to present more recent findings on the correlation between occupational exposure and COPD. In addition, we review diagnostic and prognostic considerations and the potential for prevention.
  
  
  METHODS
  We have undertaken literature searches in Medline and EMBASE for the period May 2009 - July 2014. Studies without any measurements of pulmonary function or references to occupational exposure were excluded. We have also included three prospective studies on pulmonary function and occupational exposure that were not indexed with the search terms used for obstructive pulmonary disease.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Three population studies and eight studies that described a specific industry or sector were included. Recent studies detect an association between exposure and an increased risk of COPD in the construction industry, metallurgical smelting, cement production and the textile industry. In other respects, the findings from previous review studies are confirmed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Exposure to a number of organic and inorganic particles and fumes in the workplace may cause COPD even at prevailing levels of exposure. Doctors should inquire about such exposure in cases of suspected and established COPD and should have a low threshold for referral to occupational health assessment.
authors.affiliation: Arbeidsmedisinsk avdeling Sykehuset Telemark Skien.
authors.forename: Anne Kristin Møller
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Fell
authors.affiliation: Yrkesmedisinsk avdeling Haukeland universitetssykehus.
authors.forename: Tor Olav Brøvig
authors.initials: TO
authors.lastname: Aasen
authors.affiliation: Lungemedisinsk avdeling Oslo universitetssykehus, Rikshospitalet og Det medisinske fakultet Universitetet i Oslo.
authors.forename: Johny
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kongerud
mesh_terms: D002617:Chemical Industry; D060389:Construction Industry; D005740:Gases / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D008669:Metallurgy; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D012307:Risk Factors; D013783:Textile Industry
chemical_list: D005740:Gases