Effect of cotton dust on peak expiratory flow rate in cotton mill workers

 

 

Abstract              Background: The cotton mill workers are exposed to raw cotton dust. Depending upon the exposure of cotton dust, they show various changes in lung parameters. The PEFR may not detect an early deterioration in ventilatory capacity as the other parameters but it is relatively easy to administer, repeatable and therefore can be used for a bedside assessment of respiratory problems. The present study was done to analyze effect of exposure of cotton dust on peak expiratory flow rate in cotton mill workers. Material and Methods: A cotton mill situated at Kadegaon in Sangli district was selected for the study. 287cotton mill workers of different age group between 25-50 years were studied and were grouped according to years of exposure as –Group I - with exposure between 1-5 years, 6-10 years and 11-15 years. A pulmonary function test was recorded using computerized spirometer. Results: There was decrease in mean PEFR in exposure of 6-10 years but in 11-15 years no such decrement seen. So, for ring frame, speed frame and winding workers for various exposure periods the PEFR changes were dissimilar but not significant statistically. There was no significant difference in PEFR values in different exposure groups in cotton Go down and Packing as well as lab and other workers. Discussion: This study gives an idea about the efficacy of the precautionary measures. On that basis all the precautionary measures are advised or can be made compulsory in all cotton spinning mills to maintain the pulmonary homeostasis.

Key Word: Cotton dust, peak expiratory flow rate, occupational exposure