Pulmonary function in workers exposed to tobacco dust

Abstract

Background: Exposure to vegetable dusts is probable in many industrial and agricultural industries.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between exposure to tobacco dusts and lung capacities and airflows.

Materials and methods: Two hundred thirty-one individuals who were exposed to tobacco dusts in a cigarette-manufacturing company were included in the study. One hundred individuals who were working in the same area but in other industries and were not exposed to harmful dusts were also selected as controls. Spirometry with American Thoracic Society (ATS) standards was performed for both groups.

Statistical analysis: Spirometry results were compared between the two groups using SPSS software by 't' test.

Results: The mean age of the exposed and unexposed groups was 36 +/- 7 and 35 +/- 7 years, respectively. Spirometry results showed that lung capacities and airflows in the exposed group were significantly less than those of controls (P< 0.001). Considering relative variation, the highest reduction was seen in peak expiratory flow (PEF), forced expiratory flow (FEF25%) and peak inspiratory flow (PIF).

Conclusion: The results of this study show that exposure to tobacco dust would decrease lung capacities and airflows during the years.