Medical radiation technologists (radiographers, MRTs) may develop occupational asthma and a poorly characterized condition known as "darkroom disease". MRTs have exposure to chemicals involved in developing films including glutaraldehdye and acetic acid. We are not aware that MRT surveys have included questionnaire items regarding their "sensitivities" to chemicals used to investigate MCS. We conducted a questionnaire survey to ascertain, among MRTs as compared with a control group of physiotherapists, the prevalence of asthma, respiratory and other symptoms, and responses to items previously proposed to identify those possibly having chemical sensitivities. Responses were analyzed among 862 MRTs and 621 physiotherapists who never smoked. New asthma since starting work was higher among MRTs (7.6% vs 4.7%). Reporting of respiratory symptoms in past 12 months was higher among MRTs: after running/ climbing stairs, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) for wheeze was 2.1 (95% CI 1.5-3.0) and chest tightness 1.6 (1.2-2.3); associations with work-related symptoms were stronger. MRTs reported more frequently having symptoms (possibly associated with "darkroom disease"), including sore throat OR 1.8 (1.1-2.8), headache 1.9 (1.5-2.4), numbness of face/ hands 2.1 (1.3-3.3), and chemical taste 6.7 (3.3-13.7). Although they reported that some situations (perfume) more frequently made them sick, MRTs were not more likely to meet any of 3 definitions suggesting that MCS might be present. These findings suggest that the etiology for new onset asthma and symptoms among MRTs may be work-related, but do not indicate that those working in darkrooms are more likely to have responses consistent with chemical sensitivities.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. List chemical exposures encountered by medical radiation technologists (MRTs); 2. Review evidence for respiratory and other symptoms among MRTs vs comparison groups; 3. Identify whether MRTs as a group appear to be at risk for chemical sensitivities.
Keywords: Asthma, Occupational Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.