Occupational Airborne Chemical Exposure and Pulmonary Function Impairment: A Cross-Sectional Study of Workers Exposed to Gasoline Compounds

Abstract

The effect of gasoline inhalation on respiratory endpoints of exposed workers is debatable across different geographic regions. The aim of this study was to accurately assess the respiratory health effects of gasoline among gasoline station attendants in Uyo metropolis, which hitherto has not been documented. One hundred participants (50 exposed and 50 unexposed subjects) were examined using 3 survey instruments for their respiratory endpoints. Parameters examined were adiposity indices, air quality measures lung volumes and capacities (forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity in 1 second, forced expiratory flow 25%-75%, and peak expiratory flow rate) and the presence of some respiratory symptoms (frequent cough, frequent cough with phlegm, wheezing, breathlessness, chest pain, nasal discharge, and throat irritation). Significant (P 1 year. This study showed that exposure to gasoline vapour is associated with significant respiratory function impairment. It underscores the need for periodic pulmonary function assessment, proper workplace and effective control measures to limit exposures and protect gasoline station workers against potential harmful effect of gasoline compounds. Keywords: Hydrocarbon, inhalation exposure, respiratory endpoints, workers, Uyo.