A cross-sectional study of lung functions and respiratory morbidity in stone sculptors in rural areas of Kanchipuram District

Abstract

Context: Stone sculptors are more prone to many occupation-related lung diseases due to continuous exposure to dust particles generated in the workplace. All of these lead to impaired lung functions, which affects the quality of life. Objectives: The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and respiratory morbidity-related quality of life among stone sculptors. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study among 125 stone sculptors in the rural areas of Mahabalipuram. Data regarding demographic variables, socioeconomic status, respiratory symptoms, quality of life using the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and spirometry values (using pulmonary function test – mini spirometry) were collected and analyzed. Results: Among the study individuals, 33 (26.4%) had dyspnea, 25 (20%) had cough, 17 (13.6%) had sputum production, 12 (9.6%) had wheezing, 4 (3.2%) had chest pain, and 4 (3.2%) had hemoptysis. The age of the stone sculptors and duration of years of work, smoking, comorbidities and respiratory symptoms had a significant negative correlation with forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity ratio. The age of the stone sculptors, duration of years of work, duration of smoking, and duration of alcohol intake also had a significant positive correlation with the SGRQ score. Conclusion: Stone sculptors develop impaired lung functions and reduced quality of life based on the aforementioned factors. To prevent them from developing and worsening respiratory morbidity, periodic screening of individuals, effective use of personal protective equipment, and smoking control measures should be implemented and reinforced in the workplace.

Keywords

• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• forced expiratory volume in one second
• pulmonary function tests
• silica