Byssinosis in Tanzanian textile workers.

Abstract

In an investigation on the prevalence of symptoms of byssinosis and chronic bronchitis, the authors measured the FEV1 of Tanzanian textile workers exposed to cotton dust for a relatively short duration. The results revealed a high prevalence of byssinosis, even for workers exposed for 4 years or less (21/161; 13%), and points to dust concentration as the most important factor in determining the prevalence of byssinosis. Chronic cough and chronic bronchitis were relatively uncommon, which may be explained by the youth and moderate smoking habits of the workers and by the low level of atmospheric pollution. Acute changes in FEV1 during the work shift were common, while chronic changes were not. The changes in FEV1 frequently occurred without symptoms of byssinosis, and byssinosis was not always associated with deterioration of ventilatory capacity. This study supports evidence for the spread of byssinosis in developing countries and calls for awareness of the problem and more active measure to reduce the risk.