LUNG FUNCTION  AMONG NON–SMOKING COTTON MILL WORKERS

Dr.D. Pragati Rao; Dr.T.Aruna

Volume : VI, Issue : V, May - 2016

LUNG FUNCTION AMONG NON–SMOKING COTTON MILL WORKERS

Dr. D. Pragati Rao, Dr. T. Aruna

Abstract :

Objective: To determine the effect of cotton dust exposure on lung function among cotton mill workers. Materials and methods : 100 non–smoking cotton mill workers and control group comprising of similar number of healthy non–smoker subjects with no occupational exposure were taken with age group between 20–50 years. The pulmonary function test was performed and compared by paired t–test. Results: The mean ± SD age of cotton mill workers and unexposed healthy subjects was 35±8.3 and 37 ± 7.8 years respectively. The respiratory symptoms were significantly more compared to unexposed subjects. There was significant reduction in overall mean values of FEV1 and FVC. The mean FEV1 predicted value for exposed and unexposed was 70% and 80% respectively.. The mean FEV1 predicted in those with < 3years of exposure was 75% and those with > 3yrs of exposure was 69% (p<0.005) Conclusions: Cotton mill workers are at an increased risk of developing occupational lung diseases. Therefore regular health check–ups, personal protective measures and proper ventilation are highly recommended.