Association between COPD and long term occupational exposure to VGDF of CLSA participants

Project Summary

Occupational exposure to vapors, gases, dusts, and fumes, collectively known as VGDF, has been associated with the development of several respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Literature findings are mixed regarding the association between lung function, COPD and prolonged exposure to specific VGDF.

We aim to estimate the associations between lung function, COPD and prolonged exposure to VGDF (grouped and specific) during past employment of CLSA participants.The main analyses will assess associations between COPD and lung function and exposure to VGDF (specific and grouped), using a cross-sectional epidemiological design. Spirometry measurements from the comprehensive CLSA cohort will be used to identify the presence of COPD according to the GOLD standard (FEV1/FVC < 0.7). Occupational exposures will come from CANJEM exposures linked to CLSA. Additional analyses, including stratified analyses and longitudinal analyses are planned.
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