Occupational Hygiene Review of Women’s Occupational Health Issues and Beryllium

About

While the health risks associated with occupational beryllium exposures such as chronic beryllium disease can affect both men and women, there is need for additional research into women's occupational exposures to chemical agents including beryllium. Historically, across sectors, hazards, and geographies, women have been underrepresented in occupational health studies, standards and guidance. Specific exposure risks and routes and rates of exposure have not been adequately assessed for women. Women are often underrepresented in research and in particular within male-dominated industries (e.g., mining, construction, some subsectors of manufacturing). In the literature, women are reported to carry more of the burden of occupational disease. Recent research indicates that while men traditionally have higher rates of fatal work injuries, women are more likely to experience chronic occupational diseases. Women can experience different rates of chemical exposure through the skin and lungs when compared with men. This is due to contributing biological differences such as skin thickness and hormonal variations. Research indicates that women often have higher rates of dermal absorption than men (and this could be very relevant for soluble beryllium species that have a skin notation assigned by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists). Throughout a women's lifecycle, hormones can impact lung function and respiratory mechanics, altering chemical absorption rates during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.

More research is required that includes:

• Exposure routes and rates of absorption for women • Diseases with delayed onset and systemic sensitivity • Effects of estrogen and progesterone on lung function and respiratory mechanics, and • Studies with more women and research data that is disaggregated by sex

This presentation will provide a brief review of women's occupational health issues with a focus on beryllium. It will explain the current…