Respiratory pathology to hairdressing employees

AIM: Hairdressers are exposed to multiple chemicals contained in shampoos, creams, hair dyes, permanent solutions and hair conditioners. The aim of this study was to examine occupational respiratory health risks of these workers. METHOD: A cross sectional study was carried out among 205 nonsmoking hairdressers versus a matched-control group, investigated by a protocol including clinical, allergological and pulmonary functional tests. The mean age of the subjects was 39.2 years the mean length of service was 24.4 years. RESULTS: Cosmetic products contain hundreds of chemicals and in these salons is found concomitant exposure to these chemicals. The prevalence of respiratory affections has been significant higher in the exposed group compared to controls (58% vs 7.5%) and was represented by: irritant rhinitis (49%), allergic rhinitis (33.2%), laryngitis (24%), chronic bronchitis (15.6%) and asthma (9%). The prevalence of respiratory symptoms (64% at exposed) was significantly correlated with the length of service (p<0,001); PFT showed a distal obstructive syndrome in 49% of the exposed workers. The frequency of the MEF cases under the normal limit appeared significantly greater at the exposed group (even to those without clinical symptoms) and indicated the early impairment of small airways. The mean values of the FEV 1 /FVC report were significantly lower and strongly associated with length of service (p<0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Concomitant exposure to cosmetic products in hairdressing saloons may produce serious impairment of respiratory health status. When a hairdresser employee has airway symptoms, work related reasons should be considered. Preventive actions are needed to improve the working conditions and personal protection.