| Environmental Sensitivities: Prevalence of Major Symptoms in a Referral Center: The Nova Scotia Environmental Sensitivities Research Center Study Michel R. Joffres,1,2 Tim Williams,3 Brenda Sabo,4 and Roy A. Fox2 1Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
2Nova Scotia Environmental Health Center, Dalhousie University, Fall River, Nova Scotia, Canada
3OAO Corporation, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
4Atlantic Health Promotion Research Center, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Abstract
Although the phenomenon of environmental sensitivities (ES) has no clear etiology nor well-accepted pathophysiology, affected individuals experience symptoms that cause varying levels of dysfunction. Through a dedicated, government-funded research and treatment center, a detailed questionnaire covering 217 symptoms in 13 systems was mailed in 1997-1998 to 812 individuals referred to the center by physicians. A total of 385 (47%) questionnaires were returned, and data were analyzed on 351 individuals. Participants tended to be women (80%) , middle-aged individuals (37% age 40-49 years) , and those in higher educational groups (28% completed university) , but there was wide variation in demographic variables. General symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, fatigue, forgetfulness, and irritability dominated the overall prevalence of symptoms since the start of their illness. Those related to irritation such as sneezing, itchy or burning eyes, and hoarseness or loss of voice were more common after exposure to environmental irritants. Ranking of symptoms using severity scores was consistent between men and women. Overall scores were higher in women, in participants who were separated or divorced, and in low-income groups. The type and consistency of symptoms experienced after exposure to triggering substances may not fit a purely psychogenic theory. Key words: multiple chemical sensitivities, survey, symptoms. Environ Health Perspect 109:161-165 (2001) . [Online 24 January 2001] http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2001/109p161-165joffres/ abstract.html Address correspondence to M.R. Joffres, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, 5849 University Avenue, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4H7. Telephone: (902) 494-1932. Fax: (902) 494-1597. E-mail: Michel.Joffres@dal.ca This study was supported by a contract from the Nova Scotia Department of Health. Received 30 June 2000 ; accepted 27 September 2000.
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