Abstract:
Context: Workers in textile industry are constantly
exposed to cotton dust and are liable to develop
impairment of lung functions. Effect of long term
exposure is well documented but limited data is available
with regard to early pulmonary response to cotton dust.
Aim: To study the effect of exposure to cotton dust for 1-5 years
durationonlungfunctionstestsinyoungfemaleworkers.Settings and Design: A prospective study of 100 female
cotton textile workers was undertaken. Materials and
Methods: Pulmonary function tests were carried out on
100 young (20-35years) female, non-smoking cotton
textile workers and compared with data obtained from
100 age and sex matched controls.
Statistical analysis: Data analysis was done using
student't' test using SPSS software Results: FVC, FEV1 , FEV 1 /VC, PEFR, MEF 75% were
significantly less (p<0.01) in cotton textile workers as
compared to controls. The results suggested that lung
function changes do occur even with shorter duration of
exposure (1-5years). Precautions have to be taken to
prevent the development of chronic lung disease in these
workers
