O-065 Occupational Particle Exposure Is Associated With Chronic Kidney Disease Onset During Working Age – A Cohort Study in Swedish Construction Workers

Introduction Increasing epidemiological and experimental evidence suggests that ambient particulate air pollution is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, few studies have investigated this association in an occupational setting, where exposure levels are usually much higher. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study in male construction workers (n = 286 089) who were followed (mean follow-up time 28 years) through register data. We compared workers exposed to either inorganic dust and fumes, wood dust, or fibres with unexposed workers. Our main outcomes were incident CKD and start of renal replacement therapy, obtained from validated national registers. Results Exposure to inorganic dust and fumes was associated with higher risk of CKD during working age (e.g., 30–50 years: HR 1.25, 95% CI 1.00, 1.56), after adjustment for smoking and BMI. These associations remained after adjustment for comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension) and exclusion of participants exposed to quartz dust. Associations with renal replacement therapy were similar to those with CKD. We found no evidence of increased risks at any age among workers exposed to wood dust or fibres. Discussion and conclusion In this large cohort of Swedish construction workers, we found an increased risk of CKD during working age among workers exposed to inorganic dust and fumes. Our results are in line with previous evidence of renal effects of ambient particulate air pollution and warrant further public and occupational health efforts to reduce particulate matter exposure.