The European Dermato-Epidemiology Network (EDEN) Fragrance Study - EDEN-the Swedish part

Contact allergy to fragrances appears to be increasing and data on allergy in the general population are limited. The EDEN cohort is a multinational study that involves several areas in five European countries (Sweden, Italy, Germany, The Netherlands and Portugal). The study was conducted during August 2008 to October 2011. In total 12 000 individuals from these five countries was interviewed and about 3000 of these also underwent a patch test for different fragrance allergens. From Sweden 2069 individuals participated. The questionnaire contained questions concerning occupation, smoking, anthropometric data, previous experience with skin rash, and any history of reactions to products that may contain the sensitizer and/or a history of avoidance of the same products (e.g. skin lotions, deodorants, make-up and laundry detergent). Purpose: To determine the prevalence and severity of contact allergy to fragrances and other sensitizers in the general population in Europe Participants from Sweden were 2069 individuals.