Introduction:

There is evidence of a progressive increase in chronic lung diseases in the working population associated with the increasingly frequent use of disinfectants, but there is limited scientific information on their adverse effects on workers with underlying respiratory pathology. The objective of this research was to review and understand the existing scientific evidence on the adverse effects of disinfectant use in workers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Methods:

Critical analysis of articles through a systematic review in MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, and MEDES. The search was conducted from the earliest available date until December 20, 2022. A total of 10 articles were selected based on the level of evidence and inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results:

In the 10 selected studies, exposure was to disinfectants. Of the total articles, adverse effects were reported in 9, and one study showed no relationship between the worsening of their chronic respiratory disease and exposure.

Conclusions:

The results showed inconclusive association between exposure to disinfectants and the appearance of different health damages in workers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in different work settings. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct more studies that differentiate the different disinfectants used in isolation and according to the characteristics of each job position.