Argan powder linked with occupational asthma

Argan powder, commonly used by the cosmetics industry in the production of foundation products, could be linked with occupational asthma. According to a small study presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Annual Congress in Barcelona on 9 September, evidence has been found of a risk associated with the use of argan powder during the industrial production of cosmetics.

A sample of nine patients from a cosmetics factory in France were exposed to the product in three different forms: crude granules, powder and liquid. Each participant completed a questionnaire about their medical history, while lung function tests and allergy tests were also carried out, along with an inhalation challenge test, which examines the airways specific reaction to a substance. Of the nine workers, four displayed asthma or rhinitis symptoms and had a blocked nose while handling argan powder. The results found that three of them had occupational asthma caused by argan powder, proved by specific challenge tests. Two of the four also had a positive allergy skin prick test to argan powder.

"Occupational asthma can be a debilitating condition if it prevents a person from working,” commented Dr Emmanuelle Penven, lead author of the study. “This study is very preliminary but does suggest an association between argan powder and occupational asthma. Our initial findings warrant further research to understand any health risks associated with the compound.”