A study of pulmonary function test, diffusing capacity of lungs for carbon monoxide and hematological parameters among petrol pump workers

Abstract

Background: Currently, air pollution is one of the crucial issues with growing concern. Automobile exhaust consists of mixture of soot, gases including oxides of sulfur and of nitrogen, carbon monoxide and liquid aerosols and particles. It leads to various lung disorders, carcinogenesis and changes in hematological parameters. Aims and Objective: To detect the presence and extent of changes in pulmonary function tests and changes in hematological parameters in petrol pump workers. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study. Study subjects comprised 60 males working at different petrol pumps. Healthy counterparts were taken as controls. The study subjects were given pre-designed questionnaire, and data were collected in preformed case record form. Investigations such as sputum for acid fast bacilli, spirometry, diffusing capacity of lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO), and hematological parameters like hemoglobin (Hb)% and packed cell volume (PCV) were done. Data for all parameters were analyzed by software Microsoft excel and Graph pad prism5. Results: There was no statistical difference in the baseline characters of study and control groups. There was a significant decline in Hb% and PCV in petrol pump workers as compared to control group. Decrease in values of forced vital capacity, forced expired volume 1, and forced expiratory flow 25-75% is noted in petrol pump workers. Values of DLCO% predicted were mildly decreased in Group II and mild to moderately in Group III. Conclusions: The lung function tests and hematological tests (Hb, PCV) in petrol pump workers were significantly lower than control group. Lack of awareness and protective measures during duty hours by these workers may have led to lung function abnormality and hematological changes among them.