Only a few studies have investigated the adverse health effects among HWCs. Ivens et al. (1997) found that waste collectors were more likely to report gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea and diarrhea) than municipal workers. The investigation of Thorn et al.(1998) suggested that certain dusts from household waste may cause airway in8ammation and that the effects were associated with higher (1]3)-B-Dglucan levels. Ivens et al. (1998) and Robazzi et al.(1997) noted that working as a waste collector is associated with a high risk of occupational injuries.The incidence of work-related pulmonary, gastrointestinal,and skin problems may be greater in waste collectors than in the general work force (Poulsen et al., 1995).