Reference

BOHRF Original Authors' Main Conclusions

The original authors' main conclusions are taken from Abstract, Results and Discussion. They are decided upon by the authors of the BOHRF occupational asthma guidelines and form part of the guidelines.

A survey was carried out on respiratory symptoms and skin prick test responses to common allergens, storage mites, and occupational allergens among bakers and pastry makers. Atopy was present in 54 workers and 42 workers reported allergic respiratory symptoms at work; work-related asthma was reported by 11 (4.9%). Personal atopy was significantly associated with skin sensitisation to occupational allergens and more than 50% of the symptomatic subjects at work were atopic. The risk of work-related respiratory symptoms was associated with sensitisation to wheat or alpha-amylase, and with atopy, but not with sensitisation to storage mites, work seniority, or smoking habit. Authors conclude that there is still a significant risk of allergic respiratory disease among Italian bakers. Atopy must be regarded as an important predisposing factor for the onset of symptoms at work. The data confirm that for effective prevention, greater care should be taken not only in limiting environmental exposure, but also in identifying susceptible people.

BOHRF Associated Evidence Statements

The BOHRF occupational asthma guidelines state that this reference is associated with the following evidence statements