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International Journal of Chronic... 2017The association between occupational exposure and COPD reported previously has mostly been derived from studies relying on self-reported exposure to vapors, gases, dust,... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
The association between occupational exposure and COPD reported previously has mostly been derived from studies relying on self-reported exposure to vapors, gases, dust, or fumes (VGDF), which could be subjective and prone to biases. The aim of this study was to assess the strength of association between exposure and COPD from studies that derived exposure by job exposure matrices (JEMs).
METHODS
A systematic search of JEM-based occupational COPD studies published between 1980 and 2015 was conducted in PubMed and EMBASE, followed by meta-analysis. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model, with results presented as a pooled effect estimate with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The quality of study (risk of bias and confounding) was assessed by 13 RTI questionnaires. Heterogeneity between studies and its possible sources were assessed by Egger test and meta-regression, respectively.
RESULTS
In all, 61 studies were identified and 29 were included in the meta-analysis. Based on JEM-based studies, there was 22% (pooled odds ratio =1.22; 95% CI 1.18-1.27) increased risk of COPD among those exposed to airborne pollutants arising from occupation. Comparatively, higher risk estimates were obtained for general populations JEMs (based on expert consensus) than workplace-based JEM were derived using measured exposure data (1.26; 1.20-1.33 vs 1.14; 1.10-1.19). Higher risk estimates were also obtained for self-reported exposure to VGDF than JEMs-based exposure to VGDF (1.91; 1.72-2.13 vs 1.10; 1.06-1.24). Dusts, particularly biological dusts (1.33; 1.17-1.51), had the highest risk estimates for COPD. Although the majority of occupational COPD studies focus on dusty environments, no difference in risk estimates was found for the common forms of occupational airborne pollutants.
CONCLUSION
Our findings highlight the need to interpret previous studies with caution as self-reported exposure to VGDF may have overestimated the risk of occupational COPD.
Topics: Air Pollutants, Occupational; Bias; Dust; Female; Gases; Humans; Inhalation Exposure; Male; Occupational Diseases; Occupational Exposure; Occupational Health; Occupations; Odds Ratio; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Time Factors
PubMed: 28260879
DOI: 10.2147/COPD.S125980 -
Environmental Science and Pollution... Apr 2023The recent increase in silicosis cases in several countries casts doubt on dust control practices and their effectiveness in preventing respirable crystalline silica... (Review)
Review
The recent increase in silicosis cases in several countries casts doubt on dust control practices and their effectiveness in preventing respirable crystalline silica (RCS) exposure. Apart from silicosis, RCS may lead to other illnesses, health-related quality of life losses for workers and their families, and economic losses for companies. Thus, this systematic literature review examined the effectiveness of interventions employed to prevent exposure to RCS and increase the use of dust control measures. The review used keywords related to dust control interventions to search seven databases. Search results were screened and extracted for synthesis. The narrative synthesis showed the extent of research investment in China. In several designs and combinations, the interventions utilized water, surfactant, foam, and air currents to reduce dust exposure. These interventions offer varying degrees of dust control effectiveness against RCS and respirable dust. Although evidence indicates that interventions significantly decrease dust concentration levels, the control measures in place may not effectively prevent workplace overexposure to RCS. The review found that education and training interventions are employed to improve dust controls and respiratory protective equipment (RPE) use. Also, marketing strategies promote the use of RPE. These interventions can increase the frequency of use of RPE and the adoption of best practice dust control measures. Interventions increase knowledge, awareness, and attitudes about RPE usage and generate positive perceptions while reducing misconceptions. However, the benefits obtained from an intervention may diminish after its implementation, indicating that the interventions may not continually motivate workers to adopt control measures or use RPE.
Topics: Humans; Dust; Air Pollutants, Occupational; Quality of Life; Silicon Dioxide; Inhalation Exposure; Occupational Exposure; Workplace; Silicosis
PubMed: 36964805
DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26321-w -
Pediatric Allergy and Immunology :... Nov 2015Dust mite sensitization plays a controversial role in the development of atopic dermatitis. Despite a lack of evidence for its efficacy, dust mite avoidance is commonly... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Dust mite sensitization plays a controversial role in the development of atopic dermatitis. Despite a lack of evidence for its efficacy, dust mite avoidance is commonly recommended for the prevention and treatment of atopic dermatitis. We aimed to evaluate whether dust mite avoidance strategies reduce the risk of developing atopic dermatitis in high-risk infants compared to randomized controls.
METHODS
Studies were obtained by searching MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, and The Global Resource of Eczema Trials databases. We included randomized, controlled trials of high-risk infants treated with a dust mite avoidance intervention and assessed for atopic dermatitis. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers using predefined criteria.
RESULTS
Seven randomized controlled trials met our inclusion criteria (total n = 3040). Studies were largely unblinded but otherwise of reasonable quality. Three trials utilizing a dust mite avoidance approach but not additional interventions were combined in a meta-analysis. Dust mite avoidance provided no benefit in the prevention of atopic dermatitis (relative risk (RR) = 1.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.78-1.49, I(2) = 73%).
CONCLUSIONS
Dust mite avoidance strategies alone or in combination with additional allergen avoidance modalities do not decrease the risk of developing atopic dermatitis and, given the current state of the evidence, should not be recommended for this purpose. The utility of dust mite avoidance for the treatment of atopic dermatitis or for the prevention and treatment of asthma or seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis are outside the scope of this review.
Topics: Allergens; Animals; Antigens, Dermatophagoides; Dermatitis, Atopic; Environmental Exposure; Humans; Models, Statistical; Primary Prevention; Pyroglyphidae; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 26235650
DOI: 10.1111/pai.12452 -
International Journal of Environmental... Aug 2023Diet is the primary exposure pathway for phthalates, but relative contributions of other exposure sources are not well characterized. This study quantifies the relative... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Characterizing the Contribution of Indoor Residential Phthalate and Phthalate Alternative Dust Concentrations to Internal Dose in the US General Population: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Diet is the primary exposure pathway for phthalates, but relative contributions of other exposure sources are not well characterized. This study quantifies the relative contribution of indoor residential dust phthalate and phthalate alternative concentrations to total internal dose estimated from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) urinary metabolite concentrations. Specifically, median phthalate and phthalate alternative concentrations measured in residential dust were determined by updating a pre-existing systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2015 and the attributable internal dose was estimated using intake and reverse dosimetry models. Employing a predetermined search strategy, 12 studies published between January 2000 and April 2022 from Web of Science and PubMed measuring phthalates and phthalate alternatives in residential dust were identified. From the data extracted, it was estimated that dust contributed more significantly to the internal dose of low-molecular weight chemicals such as DEP and BBP when compared to high-molecular weight chemicals such as DEHTP. Additionally, findings showed that the chemical profile of residential dust is changing temporally with more phthalate alternatives being detected in the indoor environment. Future studies should seek to characterize the contribution of dust to an overall phthalate and phthalate alternative intake for individuals who have higher than normal exposures.
Topics: Humans; Nutrition Surveys; Phthalic Acids; Dust; Molecular Weight; Thinness
PubMed: 37623174
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20166589 -
PloS One 2023Occupational respiratory disorders are a major global public health concern among workers exposed to dust particles in dust-generating workplaces. Despite fragmented... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Occupational respiratory disorders are a major global public health concern among workers exposed to dust particles in dust-generating workplaces. Despite fragmented research findings on the magnitude of respiratory problems and the lack of a national occupational respiratory disease recording and reporting system at the Ethiopian factory, the prevalence of respiratory symptoms among factory workers were unknown. Therefore, the aim of this meta-analysis was to summarize and pool estimates from studies that reported the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and predictors among Ethiopian factory workers who worked in dusty environments.
METHODS
A systematic literature searches were conducted using electronic databases (PubMed, Science Direct, African Journals Online, and Web of Science). The primary and secondary outcomes were prevalence of respiratory symptoms and predictors, respectively. The STATA version 17 was used to analyze the data. A random effect meta-analysis model was used. Eggers test with p-value less than 5%, as well as the funnel plot, were used to assess publication bias.
RESULTS
The searches yielded 1596 articles, 15 of which were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of respiratory symptoms among Ethiopian factory workers was 54.96% [95% confidence interval (CI):49.33-60.59%]. Lack of occupational health and safety (OSH) training [Odds Ratio (OR) = 2.34, 95%CI:1.56-3.52], work experience of over 5 years [OR = 3.19, 95%CI: 1.33-7.65], not using personal protective equipment (PPE) [OR = 1.76, 95%CI:1.30-2.39], and working more than eight hours per day [OR = 1.89, 95%CI:1.16-3.05] were all significant predictors of respiratory symptoms.
CONCLUSION
The prevalence of respiratory symptom was found to be high in Ethiopian factory workers. To prevent workers from being exposed to dust, regular provision and monitoring of PPE use, workers OSH training, and adequate ventilation in the workplace should be implemented.
Topics: Humans; Dust; Occupational Exposure; Lung Diseases; Lung; Personal Protective Equipment; Occupational Diseases
PubMed: 37478114
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284551 -
Particle and Fibre Toxicology Jan 2022Autoimmunity can result from the interplay between genetic background and effects of environmental and/or occupational exposure to hazardous materials. Several... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Autoimmunity can result from the interplay between genetic background and effects of environmental and/or occupational exposure to hazardous materials. Several compounds, including silica dust, have been linked with systemic autoimmunity and systemic autoimmune diseases, based on epidemiological evidence. For asbestos, a strong link with systemic autoimmune diseases does not yet exist, however, several studies have documented features of autoimmunity following asbestos exposure. Even so, human studies are limited in their ability to identify and examine isolated exposures, making it difficult to demonstrate causation or to assess pathogenic mechanisms. Therefore, this systematic review examines the existing animal evidence regarding autoimmunity and exposure to silicates (silica and asbestos).
METHODS
PubMed and EMBASE were systematically searched for peer-reviewed studies examining systemic autoimmune disease-related outcomes after silicate exposure in rodents. Literature databases were searched up to September 2021 for studies written in English and where the full text was available. Search strings were established based on a PECO (Population, Exposure, Comparator, Outcome) format. After title, abstract, and full-text screening, thirty-four studies were identified for further analysis. Quality assessment through ToxR tool and qualitative analysis of the results was performed.
RESULTS
Although there was significant heterogeneity in the included studies in terms of exposure protocol and genetic background of the rodent models used, it was noted that both genetic background and exposure to silicates [(crystalline) silica and asbestos] are highly relevant to the development of (sub-) clinical systemic autoimmune disease.
CONCLUSION
Parallels were observed between the findings from the animal (this review) and human (epidemiological) studies, arguing that experimental animal models are valuable tools for examining exacerbation or development of autoimmune disease after silicate exposure. However, genetic background and synergism between exposures should be considered in future studies.
Topics: Animals; Autoimmunity; Dust; Occupational Exposure; Rodentia; Silicates
PubMed: 34996462
DOI: 10.1186/s12989-021-00439-6 -
Occupational and Environmental Medicine Oct 2023The aetiology and pathophysiology of sarcoidosis is ill defined-current hypotheses centre on complex genetic-immune-environmental interactions in an individual,...
The aetiology and pathophysiology of sarcoidosis is ill defined-current hypotheses centre on complex genetic-immune-environmental interactions in an individual, triggering a granulomatous process. The aim of this systematic review is to define and describe which airborne occupational exposures (aOE) are associated with and precede a diagnosis of pulmonary sarcoidosis. The methodology adopted for the purpose was systematic review and meta-analyses of ORs for specified aOE associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis (DerSimonian Laird random effects model (pooled log estimate of OR)). Standard search terms and dual review at each stage occurred. A compendium of aOE associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis was assembled, including mineralogical studies of sarcoidosis granulomas. N=81 aOE were associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis across all study designs. Occupational silica, pesticide and mould or mildew exposures were associated with increased odds of pulmonary sarcoidosis. Occupational nickel and aluminium exposure were associated with a non-statistically significant increase in the odds of pulmonary sarcoidosis. Silica exposure associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis was reported most frequently in the compendium (n=33 studies) and was the most common mineral identified in granulomas. It was concluded that aOE to silica, pesticides and mould or mildew are associated with increased odds of pulmonary sarcoidosis. Equipoise remains concerning the association and relationship of metal dusts with pulmonary sarcoidosis.
PubMed: 37640537
DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2022-108632 -
European Clinical Respiratory Journal 2017: Exposure to coal dust can cause interstitial lung disease (ILD), but whether this is due to pure coal or to the contents of quartz in coal is less clear. Here, we... (Review)
Review
: Exposure to coal dust can cause interstitial lung disease (ILD), but whether this is due to pure coal or to the contents of quartz in coal is less clear. Here, we systematically reviewed the relation between 'pure coal' and ILD. : In a systematic review based on PRISMA criteria 2945 articles were identified. Strict eligibility criteria, which evaluated the 'pure coal effect', led to the inclusion of only nine studies. : Among these nine studies six studies indicated an independent effect of the non-quartz part of coal on the development and progression of ILD, two did not demonstrate an effect and one was inconclusive. : Although an independent effect of non-quartz coal dust on the development of ILD is supported, due to methodological limitations the evidence is limited and further evidence is needed.
PubMed: 28326173
DOI: 10.1080/20018525.2017.1264711 -
Spine Deformity Jul 2017A systematic review of bone dust as an autologous bone graft to encourage osseous fusion. (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study Review
STUDY DESIGN
A systematic review of bone dust as an autologous bone graft to encourage osseous fusion.
OBJECTIVE
To identify and review studies that report on the therapeutic potential of bone dust. The research question was structured as follows: populations-animal and human sources of bone dust harvested using burrs; interventions-autologous bone dust compared with other clinically utilized bone graft options; outcomes assessed-(1) in vitro cell viability, cell differentiation, and osteogenic potential and (2) clinical efficacy in the form of fusion rates as assessed using plain radiographs; study designs-in vitro, preclinical in vivo and clinical studies investigating the therapeutic potential of bone dust, harvested by burring, are included in this systematic review.
SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA
Little is known about the efficacy of bone dust, generated during burring of local bone in spine surgery, as a bone graft to encourage osseous union.
METHODS
A systematic search was conducted in Medline, PubMed, OVID, Scopus, and Cochrane library. The following key words were used: bone dust, bone burring, bone paste, bone pate.
RESULTS
A total of 285 studies were reviewed. Fourteen articles were identified as relevant for inclusion in this systematic review. Current evidence suggests that bone dust retains osteogenic properties, but limited information is available regarding the osteoinductive potential of bone dust.
CONCLUSION
Bone dust represents a free source of autologous bone, which can be easily collected during the time of surgery and used as an augment to aid osseous fusion. Further research is required to evaluate the osteoinductive potential of bone dust. The retained growth factors in bone dust may potentially induce local osteoprogenitor cells to proliferate and mineralize to form new bone.
Topics: Adult; Animals; Bone Transplantation; Bone and Bones; Cell Differentiation; Cell Survival; Humans; Middle Aged; Osteogenesis; Spinal Fusion; Transplantation, Autologous; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 28622897
DOI: 10.1016/j.jspd.2017.02.003 -
Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine Aug 2016Due to contradictory literature we have performed a systematic review and meta-analyse of population-based studies that have used Job Exposure Matrices to assess... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
INTRODUCTION
Due to contradictory literature we have performed a systematic review and meta-analyse of population-based studies that have used Job Exposure Matrices to assess occupational exposure and risk of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
AREAS COVERED
Two researchers independently searched databases for published articles using predefined inclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed, and results pooled for COPD and chronic bronchitis for exposure to biological dust, mineral dust, and gases/fumes using a fixed and random effect model. Five studies met predetermined inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis showed low exposure to mineral dust, and high exposure to gases/fumes were associated with an increased risk of COPD. We also found significantly increased the risk of chronic bronchitis for low and high exposure to biological dust and mineral dust. Expert commentary: The relationship between occupational exposure assessed by the JEM and the risk of COPD and chronic bronchitis shows significant association with occupational exposure. However, the heterogeneity of the meta-analyses suggests more wide population-based studies with older age groups and longitudinal phenotype assessment of COPD to clarify the role of occupational exposure to COPD risk.
Topics: Dust; Gases; Humans; Occupational Diseases; Occupational Exposure; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive; Risk Factors
PubMed: 27187563
DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2016.1190274