House Dust Endotoxin Association with Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema

Background: Endotoxin has been reported to be associated with chronic bronchitis or emphysema (CBE) at high occupational exposures. However, whether levels found in domestic environments have similar effects is unknown. Objectives: We aimed to study the association between house dust endotoxin and CBE in a sample representative of the U.S. population. Methods: We analyzed data from 3,393 participants ≥20y old from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2006. House dust from bedding and from bedroom floors was analyzed for endotoxin content. NHANES participants received questionnaires and underwent examination as well as extensive laboratory testing. Logistic regression was used to examine the association of endotoxin levels with CBE diagnosis and symptoms, adjusting for covariates. The survey design and weights were applied so that estimates were nationally representative and so that statistical inferences were made appropriately. Results: The median endotoxin concentration in ...