Effect Of Smoking On Lung Functions Of Workers Exposed To Dust And Fumes

Abstract

Research question: Is there any association between smoking behaviour and respiratory morbidity among workers exposed to dust and fumes in terms of pulmonary functions. Objectives: 1. To study the prevalence of smoking and types of respiratory disorders among workers exposed to dust and fumes. 2. To assess lung functions of these workers in relation to their smoking behaviour. Study design: Cross- sectional study. Setting: Out patient departments of a large hospital in Mumbai. Participants : 115 workers occupationally exposed to dust and fumes, irrespective of their present complaints. Outcome variables : FVC, FEVI, FEVI/FVC ratio,FEF25-75 (Values as percentage predicted), restrictive, obstructive and mixed (restrictive + ventilatory) disorders. Statistical analysis: Chi square test, Z test. Results: Prevalence of smoking was 50.4% among workers. Respiratory disorders were significantly higher in smokers and were related to their smoking behaviour. Smokers had more restrictive and ventilatory disorders as compared to those who had never smoked suggesting combined effect of smoke and dust or fumes.