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Pulmonary function among pulp and paper workers in Berlin, New Hampshire
P K Henneberger1, E A Eisen, B G Ferris
1Occupational Health Program, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Pulp and paper workers experienced reduced lung function, specifically lower forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC). This decline persisted even after workers left the industry, suggesting a non-reversible effect.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Medicine
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Pulp and paper mill workers may be exposed to respiratory hazards.
- Long-term effects of occupational exposure on pulmonary function require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term impact of pulp mill work on pulmonary function.
- To determine if decreased lung function in these workers is reversible after exposure cessation.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 339 pulp and paper workers from the 1960s to 1985.
- Cross-sectional analysis of 1979 and 1985 survey data, including subjects not followed up.
- Regression analysis to correlate years of employment with pulmonary function measures (FEV1, FVC).
Main Results:
- Workers with pulp mill experience had lower mean FEV1 and FVC compared to unexposed subjects.
- Each year of pulp mill employment was associated with a decrease in FEV1 (-5.8 ml) and FVC (-7.2 ml).
- 91% of exposed subjects had left their jobs, yet lung function deficits persisted.
Conclusions:
- Work in pulp mills is associated with a lasting reduction in pulmonary function.
- The observed decrease in lung function (FEV1, FVC) appears to be irreversible, persisting post-employment.