Researchers looked at the health and working environment of more than 7,000 people and found that exposure to cleaning chemicals, such as bleach, is a factor in one in six cases of adult-onset asthma among British people in their 50s.
They discovered 18 high risk jobs, four of which involved the use of cleaning chemicals.
Those most at risk were farmers, followed by aircraft engineers and typesetters. Others on the list included cleaners, domestic helpers and care workers, hairdressers and laundry workers.
The experts say it is not the occupation that puts a person at risk, but the environment in which they work.
Hundreds of allergens found in certain work places have been linked to asthma, such as cleaning chemicals, flour and grain – all of which can be inhaled causing irritation and inflammation in the airways.
The researchers in the study say that employers are sometimes unaware of the guidelines on cleaning products and their use in the workplace. Employers are supposed to control exposure to hazardous substance and report every case of occupational asthma.
They say raising awareness of occupational asthma and the guidelines that should be followed could be a major factor in reducing the number of people suffering the preventable disease.
Anyone who finds they develop breathing problems and works in one of the environments highlighted by the study should seek medical help. The earlier the symptoms are spotted and asthma diagnosed, the quicker it can be brought under control and the lower the risk of suffering a dangerous asthma attack.