Dust Exposure and Respiratory Disorders in Equine Instructors

This survey examined dust exposure and the prevalence of respiratory disorders among equestrian instructors and trainers. Nine hundred instructors were randomly selected from a database of certified riding instructors and mailed a self-administered questionnaire to complete. Three hundred forty-eight North American instructors returned the survey for a response rate of 38%. The prevalence of symptoms of four respiratory conditions (chronic bronchitis, noninfectious rhinitis, asthma, and pneumonia) was investigated in relation to work exposure, type, and other environmental conditions including dust exposure and smoking. Survey data suggested that both nonsmoker and smoker equestrian instructors (44% vs 67%, respectively) are more likely to develop bronchitis symptoms if the primary working facility is an indoor arena compared with an outdoor arena. Equestrian instructors appear to be at an increased risk for some respiratory conditions based on these results.