Exposure to dust and particles at work, particularly in the construction sector, can increase the risk of chronic kidney disease by 15%, according to a new study.
- Exposure to dust and particles at work may increase the risk of chronic kidney disease, a new study finds.
- The risk is increased by 15% for construction workers.
- However, it does not persist beyond retirement age.
In recent years, several studies have shown that air pollution particles from industry, vehicle exhaust fumes or heating can increase the risk of chronic kidney failure. A team from the University of Gothenburg (Sweden) wanted to check what this meant for the health of workers in the construction sector where dust levels are particularly high.
The existence of a link between having worked in the construction sector and the risk of developing chronic kidney disease before the age of 65 has been confirmed.
Air pollution: construction workers at increased risk of kidney disease
For this study published in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicinethe researchers reviewed the medical records of more than 280,000 construction workers who participated in health surveys between 1971 and 1993.
Analysis of the data revealed that those employees exposed to dust and particles were about 15% more likely to be diagnosed with chronic kidney disease and receive medical treatment for kidney failure than others. “However, the increased risk did not persist beyond retirement age,” the authors specify in a press release transmitted on August 20, 2024.
“Chronic kidney disease is a serious disease that has a major impact on an individual’s quality of life, increasing the risk of secondary diseases and leading to high healthcare costs. Primary prevention is therefore of great importance”also recalls Leo Stockfelt, head of the study project and associate professor of occupational and environmental medicine at the Sahlgrenska Academy of the University of Gothenburg.
Kidneys and occupational exposure to particles: mechanisms to be discovered
Scientists acknowledge that the decline in workplace emissions and the widespread use of personal protective equipment between 1970 and 1990 have reduced construction workers’ exposure to particles. However, while this has contributed to a reduction in kidney disease, “There is still much to be done to improve the working environment in the construction sector”the authors note.
They also plan to study the link between exposure to dust and particles and kidney disease in other occupations, to see if the results can be confirmed and the mechanisms involved better identified.
