Respiratory Problems among Workers at A Cement Factory in BeniSuif City .

Abstract

Background Respiratory problems represent one of the most leading causes for morbidity and mortality worldwide. Occupational agents are one of the major and most importantmodifiable risk factors for these problems. The aim of this study was to assess respiratory problems among workers at a cement factory in Beni-Suef city and to study risk factors of respiratory problems among the workers. Design: A descriptive exploratory research design was utilized in this study. Setting: the study was conducted at Misr Beni-Suef cement factory, BeniSuef City. A convenience sample was used, and it composed of150 workers. Three tools were utilized; 1-an interviewing questionnaire composed of 3 parts; personal data, occupational history and medical history, 2-respiratory symptoms questionnaire, 3-Environmental health checklist. Results:the prevalence of respiratory problems among studied workers were; 37.3% of them suffered from cough, followed by phlegm (35.3%), breathlessness (32.7%), wheezes (30.7%), chest tightness (28.7), runny itchy nose (26.7%), whereas chronic bronchitis was reported by only 22.0% of the workers. This study concluded that advancing age, duration of exposure, smokinghabits, level of education, poor compliance in using protective equipments and poor ventilation in the workplace seen as major risk factors affecting the prevalence of respiratory problems. The present study recommended that pre-placement and periodic medical examination to all the workers and health education programs tailored to improve healthy practices of workers about the occupational safety measures and prevention of respiratory problems.