Occupational exposure and the risk of new-onset chronic rhinosinusitis - a prospective study 2013-2018.

BACKGROUND The aetiology behind chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the onset of CRS and several common occupational exposures over time. METHODOLOGY An adult random population from Telemark, Norway, comprising 7,952 subjects, who answered a comprehensive respiratory questionnaire including questions on CRS and occupational exposure first in 2013 and again in 2018. RESULTS New-onset CRS during the five-year follow-up was independently associated with occupational exposure to hair-care products, cleaning agents among women, super glue, strong acids, cooking fumes and wood dust. CONCLUSION In this random population cohort from Norway, exposure to several common occupational agents, such as hair-care products, super glue and wood dust, was associated with the onset of CRS. It is important that physicians who see patients with CRS inquire about workplace exposure.