Toxic Exposure and the Prevalance of Asthma

We are proposing an investigation that will identify a potential linkage between asthma and chemical hypersensitivity by conducting a prevalence study that examines their overlap. We will collect data from a national sample to illustrate this potential association. A population study with a random sample of 1,000 geographically weighted cases, gathered from the American population and collected in different cohorts, will be used to determine the prevalence of both asthma and chemical hypersensitivity in the American population and to explore their potential co-occurrence. A questionnaire administered by phone will be the primary research implement. It will obtain data on etiology, age of onset, and demographic characteristics. Respondents will be asked a range of questions, including if they have been diagnosed with asthma, experience a hypersensitivity to chemicals, diagnosed with multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS), and react adversely to air fresheners and scented products. Those who report asthma will also be asked their age of onset and if their condition originated from an exposure to a toxic substance. This data will help to determine if asthmatics have a greater tendency to exhibit chemical hypersensitivity than the general population, and assess if asthmatics that first experienced asthmatic symptoms after a toxic exposure are more likely to have a chemical hypersensitivity. The demographic characteristics of respondents will be compared to determine if any racial/ethnic group is disproportionately affected.