A case referent study on neuropsychiatric disorders among workers exposed to solvents

Abstract

Published reports give justification for the belief that longterm exposure to solvents might induce chronic but nonspecific neuropsychiatric conditions. This case referent study of data from a regional Swedish pension fund register indicated a risk ratio of 1.8 in regard to nonspecific neuropsychiatric disorders among workers such as painters, varnishers and carpetlayers who are exposed to solvents as compared to workers not so exposed. Moreover a dose response relationship seems to exist between exposure in terms of occupational years and neuropsychiatric conditions, the result being that persons affected are considered eligible for disability pensions.