Lung function and symptoms among quarry workers in Kano

Abstract

Background: Thousands of people are working daily in quarries in Kano, in a dusty environment. They are exposed to many types of health hazards such as organic and in organic dusts which are risk factors in developing lung diseases. Quarry workers are exposed to high level of dust generated at quarry site.

Objective: The present study was designed to assess the effect of exposure to various dusts in quarry site on lung function.

Methods: Lung Volumes and Capacities were studied in 50 male quarry workers and 50 male control subjects. All participants were non smokers. The subjects were matched for age, height and weight. The lung function test was performed using an MIR Spirolab III and results were compared by student’s unpaired t-test.

Results: The results of the study showed significantly lower mean values of FVC, FEV, % FEV/FVC, PEF. Similarly, there was also higher prevalence of back pain (43.5%, vs 5.0%; P<0.001), catarrh and sneezing (6.0% vs 0.5%; P<0.001), chest pain (13.5% vs 5.0%; P<0.001) and cough (27.5% vs 11.0%; P<0.001).

Conclusion: Based on the result of this study it may be concluded that quarry workers in Kano are at increased risk of developing occupationally related pulmonary impairment. It is recommended that a compulsory use of personal protective equipment by quarry workers at work place.