A study in nurses shows those who regularly use hospital disinfectant and cleaning products may face an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

The results suggest doctors could ask about patient exposure to such chemicals when considering occupational exposures in people with the condition. 

Data from more than 73,000 US nurses shows exposure to hospital cleaning and disinfecting chemicals is associated with a 25-38% increased risk of developing COPD.

Writing in JAMA Network Open, the researchers say although such chemicals have already been associated with asthma and other skin reactions, studies on COPD have been sparse.