RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Increased prevalence of asthma associated with accidental peak exposures JF European Respiratory Journal JO Eur Respir J FD European Respiratory Society SP 2921 VO 44 IS Suppl 58 A1 Regine Abrahamsen A1 Anne Kristin Møller Fell A1 Paul Henneberger A1 Martin Veel Svendsen A1 Kjell Torén A1 Johny Kongerud YR 2014 UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/44/Suppl_58/2921.abstract AB Introduction: In Northern Europe, approximately 10% of adults and 20% of children are diagnosed with asthma. Asthma incidence in Telemark has not been studied, but it is known that the use of respiratory medication is above the average level in Norway. In this prospective, population-based study we aim to estimate the occurrence of asthma in relation to gender, smoking habits and occupational exposures. We here report the first cross-sectional results.Methods: In 2013, a random sample of 50.000 from the population of Telemark aged 16 to 50 years received a validated postal, self-administered questionnaire. Asthma was defined as asthma diagnosed by a physician.Results: The response rate was approximately 33% and the mean age of the study sample 34 years. The prevalence of everyday smoking was similar for men and women (14%). Prevalence of physician-diagnosed asthma was 12% (men: 10%; women: 13%), and significantly higher in current smokers (14%) and past smokers (16%) compared to never-smokers (11%). The prevalence of asthma in non-responders contacted by telephone (n=183) was similar (12%), suggesting the study sample is representative. The overall prevalence of ever being occupational exposed to vapor, gas, dust or fumes (VGDF) was 48%, whereas 15% reported accidental peak exposures (APE) including APE at home. The risk of asthma was not increased for those reporting ever being exposed to VGDF, but was increased for those reporting APE (adjusted odds ratio 1.5 [95% Cl 1.3, 1.8]). Participants who report respiratory symptoms following an APE, were more likely to report physician-diagnosed asthma (21%).Conclusion: Increased prevalence of asthma was observed in respondents reporting accidental peak exposures.