Peak expiratory flow rate analysis among construction workers

Abstract

Background: Construction workers who are employed in building and construction work like masonry, mixing of concrete plastering etc are exposed to silica, dust and cement. Most of them have decrease in pulmonary functions. Most of them have decrease in peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Early diagnosis is important as they are prone for occupational lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, bronchial asthma. Aim: To study pulmonary function test such as peak expiratory flow rate among construction workers compared with people working in clean environment. Materials and methods: The study was undertaken in 60 construction workers employed in building and construction work like masonry, mixing of concrete plastering etc. 100 healthy controls who work in clean atmosphere were also selected. Peak expiratory flow rate was measured by using Spirowin spirometer. Results: The mean PEFR of group 1 is 73.98 ± 13.78 and group 2 is 80.86 ± 19.07 liters. There is a decrease in the mean values of PEFR in group 1 compared to group 2 and the value is statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In the present study shows that decrease in PEFR is statistically significant.