Economic Considerations
Allergy and allergy related diseases are major causes of illness and disability in the US. Allergy related treatment costs and lost productivity are estimated cost over $8 billion dollars annually. 35 million Americans suffer from allergic rhinitis. Asthma and chronic lung disease have double in the past twenty years.
Migraines effect more than 26 million people in the US. For every 1,000 workers there are 270 lost workdays because of migraines. Migraines cost $5 billion in lost productivity yearly.
Occupational skin diseases are the second
most common occupational disease. Allergic and irritant dermatitis are the most
common types of occupational skin disorders and account for 15 - 20% of all
occupational diseases. Annual cost of occupational skin diseases including lost
workdays and productivity may reach as much as $1 billion dollars a year.
It is estimated that as much as a third of the population has sensitivities to chemicals in varying degrees. Recent studies have shown that fragrances can effect health at the levels found in our environment. Toxic, allergic, and irritant effects occur from exposures to fragranced products.
These health conditions translate into costs
to the employer. Lost time from work, lost productivity, increased health
insurance costs, workers compensation claims, and loss of experienced workers
all contribute to the cost of doing business. It is not suggested that
fragrances are the sole cause of these health conditions. But they do contribute
to them. Implementing "fragrance free" policies and educating workers on health
effects of fragrances are cost effective ways of making the work environment
healthier.
Allergic & Irritant Dermatitis
Prevalence and nature of allergy and chemical sensitivity in a general
population.
Acute toxic effects of fragrance products.
Toxic effects of air freshener emissions.
Placebo-controlled challenges with perfume in patients with asthma-like
symptoms.
Inhalation challenge effects of perfume scent strips in patients with asthma.