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Respiratory abnormalities among grain handlers: a clinical, physiologic, and immunologic study
The American Review of Respiratory Disease
|June 1, 1977
Summary
Airborne grain dust exposure causes significant eye, nasal, and respiratory symptoms in grain elevator workers. This exposure is linked to acute inflammation and likely contributes to chronic airway diseases like bronchitis.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Airborne grain dust is prevalent in grain elevator environments.
- Occupational exposure to dust can lead to various respiratory and non-respiratory symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the health effects of airborne grain dust exposure on grain elevator workers.
- To assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, lung function abnormalities, and potential contributing factors.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 300 grain elevator workers was conducted.
- Data collected included self-reported symptoms, smoking habits, and medical history.
- Lung ventilatory function and diffusing capacity were measured.
Main Results:
- 88% of workers reported respiratory symptoms, 77% eye symptoms, and 64% nasal symptoms.
- Chronic bronchitis prevalence was 37%, higher in smokers.
- Abnormal lung function, particularly at low lung volumes, was common, especially in smokers and cutaneous reactors to grain dust.
Conclusions:
- Airborne grain dust exposure causes acute mucosal inflammation.
- Grain dust exposure is a probable contributor to chronic airway diseases, including bronchitis.
- Cutaneous reactivity to grain dust correlates with wheezing, suggesting an allergic or irritant component.