Study of pulmonary function tests in car spray painters of age group 20-40years, exposed more than 5years

Abstract

Background: Automobile spray painting is an occupation where painters are exposed to organic solvent containing isocynates. This exposure is associated with high risk of respiratory disorders like asthma and chronic bronchitis.Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of paints that contain Isocynates like hexamethylenediisocyanate (HDI) and biuret modified (HDI-BT) on lung functions of car spray painters in terms of obstructive and restrictive pattern.Material and methods: This study included 30 mild-moderate painters from various automobile service centres of Hubballi, involved in car spray painting for more than 5yrs. Pulmonary function test was carried out, parameters like FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC, PEFR, FEF25-75%, were measured using NDD Medizintechnik AG, easy on PC USB spirolyser.Result: The result of present study showed very high significant decrease in FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEFR and FEF25-75% , with P value <0.0001 in subjects who were exposed to organic solvent (car spray paints) compared to the subjects who are unexposed.Conclusion: The results suggest that the decrease in FEV1 and FVC in painters shows that they are at risk of obstructive lung function.