Tibbi-i-kar

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Background: Although one of the most important occupational hazards in cement industry is the effect of cement dust exposure on respiratory system, there is controversy about the relationship between exposure to cement dust and respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function impairment. Our aim was to assess the effects of cement dust exposure on respiratory symptoms and lung capacities of cement workers more thoroughly. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, a total of 182 cement workers in two groups exposed to cement dust (case group) and non-exposed to cement dust (control group) were assessed. For exposure assessment, environmental samples of total dust were collected. For all workers after physical exam and filling ATS standard questionnaire, spirometry was done in accordance with ATS/ERS guidelines. Results: The measured total dust levels contained a mean concentration of 17.36 mg/m3 for exposed group and 0.86 mg/m3 for non-exposed group. According to the results of this study, the prevalence of respiratory symptoms included wheezing, dyspnea and cough in the exposed group was significantly more than control group. A statistically significant reduction in average percent of PEF, FEV1, FEF25-75 and FEV1/FVC was seen in the workers exposed to cement dust (P value<0.05). The highly exposed workers had a significantly higher prevalence for obstructive respiratory disease. Conclusion: Our survey suggests that cement production workers with exposure to cement dust are at risk of developing respiratory symptoms and reduced spirometric indices.

Keywords: cement dust, respiratory symptoms, spirometry

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