Asthma in particular is becoming an increasingly important occupational disease in most industrialised countries. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical and etiological characteristics of occupational asthma and its impact on work ability.

 Retrospective, descriptive study of patients with allergic asthma who consulted the emergency rooms of the region of Chtouka ait baha, Agadir the period from January 2022 to October 2022.

There were 115 cases during the study period. The average age was 40.2 years. A predominance of women was noted (54%). The most common workplaces were the following: Market garden workers (28%), harvesting workers (42%), packaging workers (21%), and truck drivers (9%). Length of service was 15 years. A history of allergic rhinitis was found in 35% and allergic conjunctivitis in 11%. The most common agents involved were plant dusts and pesticides. Symptoms were respiratory discomfort in 26%, expiratory dyspnoea with chest wheezing (32%). The occurrence of an asthma attack at the workplace was reported by 41% of the patients and the average duration of absence from work was 24 days/year. EFR was not performed in 95% of cases due to cost and low socioeconomic status. 38% of the patients were put on antihistamines and inhaled and/or nasal corticosteroids, and a combination of inhaled corticosteroids and a long-acting bronchodilator was indicated in 62% of the patients. Symptoms improved in 80% of cases. A change of workstation with avoidance of exposure to the offending allergen was indicated in 37 % of cases. Reinforcement of personal protective equipment was indicated in 17.5% of cases.

Avoidance of dust exposure for asthmatics in this agricultural sector is difficult .