DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2018.v06i03.066

Pages: 1141-1145

Lungs continuously exchange the gases between the environment and the blood and thus are the first to face the onslaught from the environmental pollutants. The silica present in the stones is one of the topmost pollutants that adversely affect the lungs. Irreversible pathological changes in the airways occur on chronic silica dust exposure with presentation varying from mild symptoms to debilitating illness. These changes are reflected in form of impaired lung function tests. This cross-sectional study was designed to determine the effect of silica on pulmonary function test of stone crusher workers of Jammu region. The study was carried out among 18 to 55 years aged 100 male stone crusher workers and 100 age, gender, height and weight matched controls. The information regarding anthropometry, occupational history and medical history was collected with the help of a predesigned structured questionnaire. Pulmonary function tests were performed with the help of computerized spirometer, DTSpiro and tested for statistical difference among exposure and control groups by independent t-test. The Mean ± SD of pulmonary function test parameters including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volumes (FEV), flow rates (including PEFR and FEF) except FEF75 and Maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) were significantly reduced among stone crushers compared to control subjects. Among chronic respiratory problems, cough was the most common symptom reported in 26% stone crushers, followed by breathlessness in 20%, phlegm in 18% and chest tightness in 14% stone crushers. Chronic exposure to silica dust is associated with lung function impairment. Lack of availability of treatment for damage to airways demands strict implementation of preventive measures at the crusher sites. Keywords: Lung function, Silica, Stone crusher workers, Respiratory problems.