Occupational airborne exposure in relation to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and lung function in individuals without childhood wheezing illness: A 50-year cohort study
The only cohort to follow respiratory outcomes from childhood to age 58-64. Biological dust exposure was associated with COPD and reduced FEV1 and FEF25-75%. Exposure to vapors was linked to COPD and reduced FEV1, FVC and FEF25-75%. Reduced FEV1 was associated with longer occupational exposure to airborne pollutants. Awareness is needed of the links between occupational airborne exposures and COPD.