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Pulmonary function and symptoms of welders
1Department of Occupational Medicine, Clinic of Internal Medicine IV, University of Vienna, Austria.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Welders show reduced small airway function, with smoking being a greater risk factor than welding exposure for decreased lung function. Further research is needed on long-term welding fume effects.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Inconsistent findings exist regarding pulmonary function changes in welders.
- Occupational exposures, including welding fumes, can impact respiratory health.
- Small airways dysfunction is a potential consequence of exposure to airborne irritants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function in welders compared to controls.
- To specifically investigate small airways dysfunction in welders.
- To identify risk factors contributing to lung function decline in welders.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 521 participants (166 evaluated in detail).
- Spirometry and standardized questionnaires were used to assess pulmonary function and symptoms.
- Data collected included occupational exposures, leisure activities, and medical history.
Main Results:
- Welders reported more respiratory symptoms than controls.
- Welders exhibited reduced mean expiratory flow at 25% and 50% of vital capacity (MEF25, MEF50).
- Smoking significantly influenced MEF25, while welding exposure duration had a lesser impact.
Conclusions:
- Reduced flow values in welders suggest the presence of small airways disease.
- Smoking habits were a more significant factor in MEF25 decline than welding fume exposure.
- Longitudinal studies are recommended to assess long-term welding fume effects and identify susceptible individuals.