ABSTRACT
This study has been carried out in the year 1997 in Zagazig City on a random sample of 88 mattress-makers and a similar number of workers of the Faculty of Medicine, as a control group, to determine the prevalence of respiratory disorders and identify risk factors. The studied groups were interviewed using the M.R.C. [1960] questionnaire on respiratory symptoms. Then, they were subjected to chest clinical examination and spirometry by the vitalograph. Dust concentration in the work places was estimated. Prevalence of respiratory disorders in mattress-makers and control group was 63.6% and 31.8. respectively [P < 0.05]. In mattress-makers: prevalence of ch. cough, ch. bronchitis, dyspnea, byssinosis and crackles was 25%. 21.6, 10.2%, 6.8% and 5.7%, respectively. corresponding to 12.5%, 9.1%1.1%, 0% and 0% in the control group [P < 0.05]. Most cases of byssiriosis were grade 1 and F1. Spirometry showed lower mean of FVC% of predicted and FEV[1] FVC% in mattress-makers than in the control group [P < 0.05]. Prevalence of smoking in mattress-makers was 42%. Prevalence of some respiratory disorders was related to duration of exposure. Other risk factors were smoking and dust concentration. Recommendations: Organization of health education program about hazards of exposure to dust, smoking and importance of proper ventilation and using masks