Occupational lung disease: what the general physician needs to know

Occupational exposures are a common and preventable cause of lung disease. About 1 in 6 cases of COPD and asthma worldwide are related to work.

Early recognition of occupational lung disease improves outcomes. Doctors should ask about work history in patients with respiratory symptoms. This educational review article briefly outlines key clinical features, relevant to the general physician, of common occupational lung diseases seen in the UK. These conditions include work-related asthma, pneumoconioses, hypersensitivity pneumonitis and COPD.

Referral to a specialist is recommended when an occupational cause is suspected. Most occupational lung diseases are preventable with adequate workplace safety measures and early medical attention.