Respiratory Functions in Textile Mill Workers: Role of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate

Background: Textile industries play a significant role in the economic growth of the country. Health concern of these textile mill workers is the biggest challenge. Respiratory alterations were found in these workers with long-term exposure to cotton dust. Effect of cotton dust on peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is not very well documented in the past. Aim/Objective: The main objective of this study was the assessment of respiratory functions in textile mill workers along with the effect on PEFR in these workers. Methods: A total of 130 male textile mill workers were recruited for this study from the different sections of a textile mill. In which, 80 workers were present from exposed and remaining 50 were from non-exposed area of a textile mill. 30-40 years of age workers with the working history of not more than 5 years, were included in the part of the study. Their body mass index (BMI) and respiratory functions were evaluated. BMI was calculated using weight and height of an individual. Respiratory functions including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) were estimated using spirometer, and PEFR was measured by Wright’s peak flow meter. Results: The mean values of FVC, FEV1, and PEFR were found to be significantly (<0.01) lower in the exposed group of the textile mill when compared non-exposed groups. When these values were compared on the basis of BMI, workers with BMI>25 kg/m2 were found with lower mean values of FVC, FEV1, and PEFR when compared with workers with BMI<25kg/m2. Furthermore, there was significant (<0.05) negative correlation between BMI and PEFR in both exposed group and non-exposed group of a textile mill. Conclusion: Workers at the textile mill, with short-term exposure to cotton dust, may also present with respiratory alterations which may increase with long-term exposure. Safety controls, such as ventilation, and routine health check are very much required in textile industries.