Exposure to dust and particles at work may increase the risk of chronic kidney disease, a recent study conducted by the University of Gothenburg has revealed. The study, which followed Swedish construction workers since the 1970s, found that those exposed to high levels of dust had a 15% higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease is a prevalent condition characterized by the gradual deterioration of kidney function, leading to the retention of harmful substances and fluids in the body. Recent research has linked outdoor air pollution particles to an increased risk of the disease, highlighting the potential risk of occupational exposure to particles in the construction industry.
Karl Kilbo Edlund, a PhD student in occupational and environmental medicine at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg and the lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of further research to establish a causal link and identify the underlying biological mechanisms:
“We have observed a significant association between working in high-dust construction environments and the development of chronic kidney disease before the age of 65. However, more studies are needed to validate this link and understand the biological pathways involved,” Edlund explained.
The Significance of Prevention
The findings of the study, published in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine, are based on comprehensive data from over 280,000 construction workers who underwent health surveys between 1971 and 1993. The research, funded by the Swedish Research Council Forte, highlights the importance of preventive measures in reducing the risk of chronic kidney disease among workers exposed to dust and particles.
Leo Stockfelt, Associate Professor of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg and the project leader, emphasized the impact of chronic kidney disease on individuals’ quality of life and healthcare costs:
“Chronic kidney disease is a severe condition that can lead to secondary diseases and significant healthcare expenses. Therefore, primary prevention measures are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with the disease,” Stockfelt stated.
Enhancing Occupational Health and Safety
While advancements in workplace emissions control and the use of personal protective equipment have reduced construction workers’ exposure to particulate matter over the years, the researchers stress the need for further improvements in the construction industry’s occupational environment.
This study marks the first investigation into the association between dust exposure and kidney disease in construction workers, utilizing registry data from Bygghälsan, managed by Umeå University. The research team plans to expand their study to explore the link between dust exposure and kidney disease in other occupational groups and delve deeper into the mechanisms at play.
Overall, the study sheds light on the potential health risks faced by workers in the construction industry and underscores the importance of implementing stringent occupational health and safety measures to safeguard workers’ wellbeing.
