Work-related skin symptoms among Bulgarian dentists

Background Dentists are at high risk of developing skin symptoms due to occupational contact with irritants and/or allergens. Objectives To assess the point prevalence of work-related skin symptoms and associated factors in Bulgarian dentists. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed using a self-report questionnaire. Results A total of 4675 dentists filled the questionnaire (response 48.1%). The point prevalence of self-reported skin symptoms was 31.6%. According to logistic regression analysis, factors significantly associated with work-related skin symptoms included a personal history of atopic dermatitis (odds ratio [OR] 2.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.24-3.31), allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and/or asthma (OR 1.85, 95%CI: 1.56-2.19), work experience >30 years (OR 2.21, 95%CI: 1.78-2.74), personal history of contact allergy (OR 1.79, 95%CI: 1.48-2.17), female sex (OR 1.87, 95%CI: 1.59-2.19), hand washing >8 times a day (OR 1.32, 95%CI: 1.03-1.69), daily contact >= 4 hours with protective gloves (OR 2.09, 95%CI: 1.64-2.67), and use >10 pairs of gloves per day (OR 1.51, 95%CI: 1.11-2.04). Conclusion Bulgarian dentists have a high prevalence of work-related skin symptoms. History of atopic dermatitis, prolonged work experience, and protective gloves use were the strongest risk factors.