Occupational exposure to vapor, gas, dust and fume using job-exposure matrix in a population-based, nationwide study in Kazakhstan

BACKGROUND: We aimed to characterize the populational exposure to vapors, gases, dusts and fumes (VGDF) in a nationwide population-based study in Kazakhstan. METHODS: Data on all positions held for more than a year in the lifetime were collected from 5058 (median age 47 (interquartile range (IQR) 31;61) years, 50% men) participants. Prevalence of each exposure was computed using ACE job-exposure matrix (JEM), and a multivariate logistic regression was applied to compute the odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) of such exposure. RESULTS: Lifetime exposure to VGDF was found in 53% of general population, more in men (61% vs. 45%, p < 0.001), with dust (45%), mineral dust (32%) and gas (30%) being the top three exposures. Ever-smoking (OR 1.58; 95% CI 1.36;1.83), exposure to secondhand smoke (OR 1.49; 95% CI 1.29;1.71), education below university level (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.86;2.41), being a male (OR 1.35; 95% CI 1.17;1.55), and living in the North and Center increased the odds of being exposed, independent of each other and work initiation since independence, body mass index and even the use of fossil fuel for heating. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to VGDF in the general population of Kazakhstan is high, with some regional discrepancies. Predictors of such exposure can help identify most exposed population to tailor targeted preventive interventions.