Ventilatory changes in pulmonary functions among sugar cane workers

ABSTRACT

This is a cross-sectional study among sugar cane workers in Ques Sugar Production Factory in Quena Governorate. It is designed to investigate changes in ventilatory pulmonary functions and chest X-ray of sugar cane workers and their interaction with smoking. All que-collar male workers were classified into high exposure group [production workers, n=27] and low exposure group [maintenance workers, n=43], and were included in the study. All participants were subjected to a pre-designed questionnaire, clinical examination, computerized pulmonary functions testing [FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, MMEF, PEF, MEF25%, MEF50% and MEF75%] and chest X-ray examination. Results showed significantly higher rates of chronic bronchitis and chronic asthmatic bronchitis among the high exposure group. Ventilatory pulmonary functions demonstrated significant reductions in FVC in relation to exposure to airborne bagasse [p=0.006]. Also, reductions in MEF5O% and MEF75% were significantly related to occupational exposure and smoking [p<0.05]. Obstructive and restrictive impairments in ventilatory pulmonary functions were significantly more common among high exposure group currently smokers [P< 0.05]. Small lung opacities were reported more significant among high exposure workers versus low exposure group [p=0.003]. In conclusion, FVC, MEF50% and MEF75% seem to be early sensitive parameters; meanwhile, chest X-ray examination is a specific parameter in periodic medical examination of sugar cane workers. Anti-smoking measures and other control strategies are important issues