BRoncho-pulmonary hEAlTH and ExpoSure to Aspergillus fumigatus in Farm workERs - BREATHE SAFER

The fungus Aspergillus fumigatus is important for the degradation of plant waste, but also causes lung diseases, such as allergic syndromes and (severe) infections. Agricultural waste stockpiles may contain very high spore concentrations. Because agricultural workers (AWs) may be exposed to high spore concentrations, our research focuses on whether AWs are at risk of developing Aspergillus lung diseases.

Approach/working method

To investigate this, we are conducting a survey of AWs to determine how often and which lung diseases occur. In some AWs, the presence of Aspergillus antibodies in the blood will also be tested. The data will be compared with that of the Dutch population and patients with Aspergillus lung diseases.

Follow-up

Based on this research, we can determine if further studies are required.