Effect of advancing age on pulmonary functions in petrol pump workers of Cuttack : a cross sectional study
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Abstract
Background
Environmental pollution is a worldwide phenomenon. Petrol pump workers are exposed to toxic substances present in petrol and diesel and also to various air pollutants. Long term exposure of these chemical vapours leads to deleterious effects on respiratory functions that range from mild cough to lung cancer. In the present study an attempt has been made to find out the correlation of advancing age and toxic effects of vapours on respiratory system by comparing pulmonary function tests in petrol pump workers and subjects not exposed to petrol.
Methods
The study comprised of 60 petrol pump workers in age group 30-60 years working for more than 1 year. 60 healthy age matched male served as controls. Age, smoking habits, duration of exposure and health conditions of each subject were recorded. The pulmonary function was assessed in all subjects by Medspiror having Helios 401 software. The pulmonary function parameters studied were FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, FEF25-75%, PEFR and MVV. The parameters were compared by using Student’s t-test, ANOVA and multiple comparison Bonferroni tests.
Results
A statistically significant decline in FEV1, FVC, PEFR, FEF25-75% and MVV was observed in petrol pump workers with advancing age. However, decline in FEV1/FVC was significant in elderly age of 50 to 60 years.
Conclusion
Elder workers were more susceptible to harmful effects of benzene and other gaseous pollutants on pulmonary functions. Early recognition and removal of susceptible workers from work place before chronic impairment develops will prove to be beneficial.
Article Details
References
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