Authors: Huda Ahmed Yuosuf , Ahmed Fadl , Ahmed M. Elbeshbeshy

Abstract

Background: Work-related asthma (WRA) is a significant occupational health concern, and healthcare workers (HCWs) are routinely exposed to respiratory hazards such as disinfectants, cleaning agents, and aerosolized medications. Despite this, the overall burden of asthma and the contribution of specific work-related tasks among HCWs have not been clearly quantified. This study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of asthma among healthcare workers and to summarize key occupational exposures and risk factors associated with work-related asthma.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for observational studies published up to December 2025. Cross-sectional or cohort studies reporting asthma prevalence and/or occupational exposures among HCWs were included. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic, and publication bias was evaluated using Doi plots and the Luis Furuya-Kanamori index.

Results: Eight cross-sectional studies involving 16,019 healthcare workers were included. The pooled prevalence of asthma among HCWs was 10% (95% CI: 8–13%), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 95.7%). High proportions of HCWs reported exposure to asthma-related tasks, including cleaning or disinfecting surfaces (58%), use of chemicals or solvents on patients (32%), administering aerosolized medications (24%), and sterilizing medical instruments (15%). Identified risk factors included exposure to disinfectants such as quaternary ammonium compounds, bleach, and orthophthalaldehyde, as well as atopy, female sex, obesity, smoking, and certain job tasks.

Conclusion:
Asthma is common among healthcare workers and is strongly associated with routine cleaning and disinfection activities. These findings highlight the need for enhanced occupational surveillance and targeted preventive strategies in healthcare settings.

Keywords: Work-related asthma, healthcare workers, occupational exposure, disinfectants, systematic review, meta-analysis.