Study of the Correlation Between Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and Personality Using the Quick Environmental Exposure Sensitivity Inventory Questionnaire and the Temperament and Character Inventory

Abstract

Objective: We conducted an analysis using the Quick Environmental Exposure Sensitivity Inventory to examine the correlation between multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) and personality traits by using temperament and character inventory, and environmental exposures. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to 667 employees working at an IT manufacturing plant in Japan. Variables including chemically sensitive population (CSP), personality, and environmental chemical exposure were individually evaluated using U -test, chi-squared test, and correlation analyses. We also did covariance structure analysis to build a structural equation model. Results: There was little direct impact of temperament on the CSP, while there was a significant impact of character on the CSP. Women were more likely to exhibit symptoms of CSP. Conclusion: MCS is correlated with personality, impacted more by character acquired later in life than innate temperament. There were sex differences in the incidence of MCS.

Prevalence and correlation of multiple chemical sensitivity and electromagnetic hypersensitivity with age, sex, and depression in the Japanese population: a retrospective study

“…Numerous studies have reported a higher prevalence rate of MCS and chemical intolerance in women than in men [ 3 , 5 – 8 , 31 – 33 ], consistent with our findings. Similarly, several studies have reported a higher prevalence of EHS in women than men [ 16 ].…”

“…However, several characteristics of MCS remain unclear, including the mechanism underlying its onset, risk factors for onset and aggravation, its relationship with allergic diseases, and psychosomatic and mental disorders. During the last decade, the prevalence of self-reported MCS has been reported to be 3–26%, and it is higher in women than in men [ 3 – 8 ]. Additionally, there are age-related differences in the prevalence of MCS, with adults showing a higher prevalence than older adults and youth [ 9 ].…”