Effect of occupational exposure to dust on pulmonary function tests in individuals working in saw mills in Raichur district

Abstract

Introduction: In general, Exposure to dust at working places causes deterioration of pulmonary functions, increased prevalence of respiratory diseases, worsening of existing illnesses and also increased incidences of cancer and deaths. There are many saw mills situated in Raichur district of Karnataka and many workers are engaged in working at saw mills. They are exposed to saw dust during there working hours. So the present study was taken up to evaluate the effect of wood dust exposure on pulmonary functions of these individuals and also to know the additive effect of smoking on respiratory health of these individuals. Aim: To estimate the effect of saw dust exposure on PFT of saw mill workers. To compare the effect of saw dust exposure on PFT of smokers and non-smokers among saw mill workers. Materials and Methods: Data collection was effected by way of an interviewer-administered, questionnaire to determine years of exposure as from date of employment, site or position at workplace, use of safety gadgets such as dust masks and earplugs to prevent entry of airborne microorganisms and dust into the mouth, nose and ear which can cause infections, etc. All the male workers in saw mills of age between 20-50 years were included. Results were expressed as Mean ± SD and Statistical comparison of measured variables between the 2 groups was carried out using unpaired-t-test and difference among mean values were calculated at a level of P Results: A significant difference in FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio between saw mill workers and control group was found. We have also found a marked decrease (P1 andFEV1/FVC ratio of smokers in comparison with non-smokers. Conclusion: It is concluded from our study that exposure to saw dust causes inflammation which leads to decrease in lung compliance. Lesser compliance causes declined PFT values. A decrease in FVC in present study is an indication of restrictive lung disease conditions and decreased FEV1/FVC ration indication of Obstru