High prevalence of obstructive lung disease in non-smoking farmers: The Irish farmers lung health study

Abstract Background Mortality rates within the Irish farming community are increasing, whilst that of the general population falls. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence of respiratory disease amongst Irish farmers. Methods All study participants were farming volunteers attending an agricultural exhibition. Data collected by questionnaire included baseline demographics, respiratory history, presence of respiratory symptoms and occupational exposures. Spirometry was performed on all participants. Results Data from 372 farmers was analysed. The majority were male (76%) with median age of 55 years. 61% were never smokers. 13% were previously diagnosed with airway disease (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease(COPD)/Asthma/Inhaler use) with 14% reporting hayfever/allergies. Almost two-thirds reported one or more chronic respiratory symptom. Forty-four (12%) had obstructive spirometry using fixed FEV 1 /FVC  1 /FVC  Conclusion The majority of Irish farmers are never smokers. They have a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms. 13% of never smokers have airflow obstruction (FEV 1 /FVC