Asma ocupacional

Abstract

Occupational asthma (OA) is the most common occupational disease in industrialized countries and it is estimated that approximately 15% of adult asthma may be of occupational origin. In the United States, it is estimated that 5-15% of asthma cases can have a work-related origin.As evaluated in different studies, the proportion of new cases of asthma in adults that are due to occupational exposure is unknown by the absence of effective epidemiological surveillance programs of occupational diseases.The differences in the design of epidemiological studies, the definition of OA, the type of population and the country where the study is conducted are some of the reasons for these discrepancies and the difficulty of making comparisons. The OA can be developed by an immune mechanism so as not immune. In its development influence the type of agent that is exposed individual, level and mode of exposure and genetic susceptibility factors. Since the treatment of choice in the OA is to remove the patient from exposure to their work environment, the number of people who may require a change of job and economic consequences for society are significant and the social and economic impact of both permanent and temporary incapacity produced.For this reason, a detailed and personalized medical history of asthma in the individual plays an important role, providing insights into possible triggers (airborne allergens, environmental irritants), visualizing the worker in situ or immersed in his workplace and allowing understand the different situations arising.Almost all the agents that lead to other occupational respiratory diseases can also cause occupational asthma. Therefore, works without risk exposure are less prevalent, and considering that this is a very common disease and is increasing in industrialized countries, effective preventive measures should be taken.