Japanese cedar pollinosis (JCP), an unfortunately common chronic breathing problem, interferes with cognitive function, impairing work productivity and inducing economic loss. We evaluated JCP impact on work productivity, QOL, and symptoms.
Our study, conducted during Japan's peak pollen season, used questionnaires on work productivity and activity impairment allergy-specific (WPAI-AS) and Japanese rhino conjunctivitis QOL (JRQLQ).
The pollen count in 2009-4067.5/cm2 was 3 times that in 2008-1468.4/cm2. Subjects numbered 227 (202 employees and 25 students) in 2008 and 308 (277 employees and 31 students) in 2009. Mean workplace absence was 0.9% in 2008 and 1.2% in 2009 and mean work efficiency loss 33% in 2008 and 42% in 2009. Mean classroom absence was 0% in 2008 and 1.5% in 2009 and mean study efficiency loss 33% in 2008 and 48% in 2009, showing a positive correlation between work productivity score, QOL, and symptoms. Work productivity decreased more in 2009 with increased pollen count.
With the large economic loss due to pollinosis, both symptom severity and QOL must be improved to increase work productivity.
