United Kingdom: Many of Britain's workers frequently report sick due to respiratory problems, and it is estimated that nearly 1500 to 3000 people develop occupational asthma every year. Prolonged exposure to dust or substances called "respiratory sensitizers" can trigger occupational asthma.

Alveolitus or 'occupational asthma' is triggered by constant exposure to dust, which leads to an allergic inflammation of the lung. It is said that the scarring brings down the efficiency of the lungs permanently. People suffering from occupational asthma go out of breath with simple activities like walking and talking. Unfortunately, the damage to the lung is irreparable and sometimes can even turn fatal.

Proactive measures is really need of the hour, which should include improved health checks and prevent the exposure to the causative agents of asthma, which can markedly bring down the incidences of occupational asthma.