[Dust exposure, dust-induced lung diseases and respiratory protective measures in agriculture]

Epidemiologic studies indicate a high prevalence of respiratory diseases among the farming population. Many of these diseases are responsible for disability and death and there is a considerable impact on the economy and health cost expenditure. Respirable organic dust plays a major pathogenetic role. Part I of this review discusses the diseases and syndromes caused by organic dust: organic dust toxic syndrome; chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; asthma; and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Part II describes preventive measures for dust control. Besides technical aspects in the process of agriculture production, special emphasis is placed on personal protective equipment systems (face-masks and air-purifying respirators). Applications, advantages and disadvantages of these systems are discussed and critically compared.