Effects of Prolonged Silica Exposure on Pulmonary Function Among Stone Quarry Workers in South India

Abstract

Background: Occupational lung diseases are prevalent within the quarry worker community due to the substantial dust emissions within quarrying environments. Inhaling this dust is an occupational hazard that poses health risks to on-site workers. To mitigate these risks and facilitate early detection of potential lung damage, pulmonary function tests play a pivotal role. These tests offer an objective and quantifiable assessment of lung function, aiding in the timely identification of any respiratory impairments among quarry workers. Aims: To assess the pulmonary functions in stone quarry workers and compare them with the unexposed population, to find its correlation with the duration of work in stone quarry workers, and to assess the occupational category that is affected the most. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was done on 200 quarry workers in and around Kolar and 200 unexposed populations. Pulmonary function tests (PFT) were recorded using RMS-PFT machine. The pulmonary function test parameters among the quarry workers were assessed in the various occupational categories. Results: PFT of quarry workers was significantly reduced as compared to that of the unexposed group (p<0.001). Lung impairment increased with increasing duration of exposure to dust in years among the quarry workers. Lung impairment was found to be the most among the loaders followed by stone grinders, drillers, blasters, and stone cutters. Supervisors were found to be the least affected. Conclusion: Lung impairment among quarry workers depends on the duration of exposure to dust as well as the dust load. Quarry workers were found to have a Restrictive type of lung disease. Quarry workers must be educated regarding the use of personal protective equipment. Key words: PFT (Pulmonary function test), Quarry workers, Restrictive lung disease.