Pulmonary Complications in Workers of Bafnaz Textile Factory in Isfahan

Authors

Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, ISFAHAN-IRAN

Abstract

Background: The present study was conducted to examine adverse pulmonary effects of exposure to cotton dust in Isfahan
Materials and Methods: All employed workers of Bafnaz textile factory were studied by medical interview, physical
examinations, and spirometry in symptomatic subjects. Frequency tables were used to extract major symptoms and
pulmonary illnesses. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate relationships between illnesses and possible risk
factors.
Results: All workers had some potential exposure to cotton dust; mean employment duration was 18.20±5.34 years.
Prevalence of chronic cough, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and byssinosis was 2.4%, 30.8%, 9.2%, and 3.9% respectively.
Odds ratios (OD)and 95% confidence interval (CI)for prevalence of chronic bronchitis and byssinosis in those working in most
dusty jobs, after adjustment for age, smoking habit and duration of employment were; 1.77 ( 1.10-3.04), and 1.41 (1.33-2.63)
respectively. In these textile workers, chronic respiratory symptoms and disorders were associated with job category after
correction for age and smoking habits.
Conclusion: These data support the evidence for an increased prevalence of respiratory disease in populations exposed to
cotton dust. (Tanaffos 2003; 2(6): 25-30)

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