GM chemicals in cleaning products are 'potent allergens'

Conclusion This cross sectional study aimed to assess the potential for allergy caused by genetically modified enzymes which are abundant across the manufacturing industry. The researchers showed that such enzymes can cause increased levels of the related antibodies, causing sensitisation for some of those that come in contact. However, just having antibodies to something you've been exposed to doesn't necessarily equate to allergic symptoms such as dermatitis or asthma. A notable limitation of this study is that it examined and reviewed the medical history of only a small subgroup of people. The majority of these people had no allergic symptoms, despite the high prevalence of antibodies. As these people were only selected from two sites, and were not a randomly selected sample of all workers tested, the possibility of selection bias can't be ruled out. Another important limitation is that this type of study is unable to prove cause and effect. A prospective cohort study would be the best way of assessing whether non-allergic people subsequently develop allergic sensitivity upon working in environments where they are exposed to these enzymes. It is also likely that the level of exposure for these workers is higher than for the general public using these products. So the implications for the general population are probably minimal. Another drawback to the research, acknowledged by the authors, is that commercial secrecy limited access to data, preventing them from gaining...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Lifestyle/exercise Source Type: news