Prevalence of byssinosis at Paleik textile mill

ABSTRACT

A survey was conducted among the cotton workers of the Paleik Textile Mill in Burma in order to detect any evidence of Byssinosis. Altogether 1249 workers who were exposed to cotton dust were studied. They included workers from the Spinning' Weaving and Finishing Departments of the mill. The examination of each worker included a history, a questionaire of respiratory svmptoms and a clinical examination. Those workers with respiratory symptoms were further interviewed more closely with special emphasis on the typical symptoms of Byssinosis. Pulmonary function analysis (PEFR, FEVI, FVC, FEVI/FVC), skin allergen tests and chest x-rays were performed on all workers with a suggestive history of Byssinosis.The total prevalence rate of Byssinosis at the Paleik Textile Mill is 1.8 per cent. The occupational groups most affected are the card-room workers, the spinners and the bale pressers. The condition is detected only in workers who have been exposed to cotton dusts for at least four years. There is no association with chronic bronchitis or other respirator diseases.