Prevalence and risk factors for multiple chemical sensitivity in Australia

Paolo D Pigatto; Gianpaolo Guzzi

doi:10.1016/j.pmedr.2019.100856

Prevalence and risk factors for multiple chemical sensitivity in Australia

Prev Med Rep. 2019 Mar 29:14:100856. doi: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2019.100856. eCollection 2019 Jun.

Authors

Paolo D Pigatto¹, Gianpaolo Guzzi²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Unit of Dermatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, University of Milan, Via Riccardo Galeazzi 4, 20161 Milan, Italy.
² Italian Association for Metals and Biocompatibility Research - A.I.R.M.E.B., Via Antonio Banfi 4, 20122 Milan, Italy.

Abstract

The author found that the prevalence of diagnosed multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) in Australia was 6.5%. No mention is made about the role of exposure to metals. Exposure to metallic elements has been associated with MCS. Metals are a well-known primary risk factor for idiopathic environmental intolerance. It is important that the medical approach designed to reduce the risk factors for MCS includes preventive strategies of metal exposure.

Keywords: Adults; Frequency; Hyperosmia; Idiopathic environmental intolerance; Metal allergens; Metallic elements; Metals; Metals toxicity; Toxicants.