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Longitudinal changes in bronchial responsiveness associated with swine confinement dust exposure
P F Vogelzang1, J W van der Gulden, H Folgering
1Department of General Practice and Social Medicine, University of Nijmegen, the Netherlands. P.Vogelzang@hsv.kun.nl
Chest
|May 16, 2000
Summary
Pig farmers exposed to dust and ammonia in swine confinement units experience increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Reducing exposure to these airborne contaminants is crucial for preventing chronic airway inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Medicine
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Swine confinement operations generate airborne contaminants like dust and ammonia.
- Acute exposure to these agents is linked to airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To longitudinally assess bronchial responsiveness in pig farmers over three years.
- To establish exposure-response relationships between airborne contaminants and respiratory health.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 171 pig farmers underwent histamine provocation tests over three years.
- Personal monitoring assessed long-term average exposure to inhalable dust, endotoxin, and time-weighted average (TWA) ammonia.
- Farm characteristics, including bedding and feeding systems, were recorded.
Main Results:
- Long-term inhalable dust exposure correlated with increased bronchial responsiveness (PC10 fall in FEV1).
- TWA ammonia exposure, wood shavings, and automated dry feeding were linked to increased bronchial responsiveness (PC20 fall in FEV1).
Conclusions:
- Inhalable dust and ammonia exposure in pig farms contribute to chronic airway inflammation.
- Interventions to reduce dust and ammonia levels are recommended for pig farmers' respiratory health.