Occupational exposure and respiratory illness symptoms among textile industry workers in a developing country

This study investigates the respiratory health profile of textile mill workers in Bangladesh, aiming to develop workers' awareness and public attention, and to ensure a proper implementation of health and safety measures. Forced vital capacity was measured by peak expiratory flow rate instrument among 210 subjects. The personal history, the occupational history, and the state of health were also determined using a questionnaire and checklists. The subjects who had a considerably low peak expiratory flow rate (< 290 liters/min), and had symptoms of chronic respiratory illness, underwent X-ray examination. A statistically significant low peak expiratory flow rate was identified among 52.9 percent of workers. Among them, 42.9 percent had symptoms of cough with or without phlegm; 5.7 percent had a history of chronic bronchitis and/or asthma, and 4.3 percent experienced chest tightness or breathlessness. This study showed a high degree (p < .001) of respiratory-related illness symptoms present among the workers in the blow/card rooms and the workers in the spinning section. Irrespective of variation of age as well as work pattern, non-smokers were less likely to be affected. Whether worker were occupationally exposed to other incidences was also investigated. The results of these investigations are presented and the findings discussed in light of other studies carried among similar occupational groups.