Chronic bronchitis and pesticide exposure: a case-control study in Lebanon

Eur J Epidemiol. 2006;21(9):681-8. doi: 10.1007/s10654-006-9058-1. Epub 2006 Oct 27.

Abstract

Objective: Pesticides are widely used toxics. The objective of the study is to evaluate the odds of exposure to pesticides in chronic bronchitis patients.

Methods: Using the American Thoracic Society standardized questionnaire confirmed by medical diagnosis of chronic bronchitis, a case-control study was performed in Lebanon. Pesticide exposure was estimated and between groups comparison was made.

Results: The study involved 262 controls and 110 chronic bronchitis outpatient subjects from 10 medical centers. Any exposure to pesticides was associated to chronic bronchitis (OR = 2.46 [1.53-3.94]; p < 10(-4)). Occupational use presented the highest association (15.92 [3.50-72.41]; p < 10(-4)), followed by regional exposure (3.70 [2.05-6.70]; p < 10(-4)). Results were confirmed by multivariate and subgroup analysis.

Conclusion: Pesticide exposure was associated with chronic bronchitis in Lebanese adults. Pesticides toxicological effects may explain chronic respiratory effects associations found with all exposure types.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bronchitis, Chronic / chemically induced*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Humans
  • Lebanon
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Pesticides / toxicity*

Substances

  • Pesticides