Función pulmonar en trabajadores de un molino de trigo. Aragua, Venezuela 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Dusty atmospheres in wheat mills can alter lung function. Spirometry allows for early detection of these alterations and is often complemented with chest X-rays. The objective was to describe lung function in workers exposed to dust in a wheat mill. Methodology: A descriptive, retrospective study was conducted. A documentary review of the occupational health history was conducted in a population of 40 exposed workers. The purposive sample consisted of 31 individuals with spirometry and chest X-rays that met acceptable criteria in their medical records. Results: Altered spirometric pattern was observed in 9.68% of workers (Restrictive: 6.45% for low-medium exposure; Obstructive: 3.23% for high exposure); 32.26% presented radiological alterations. FVC varied in high-exposure positions (p = 0.016); and a slightly decreased mean in FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FVC%, and FEV1% (p > 0.05); joint exposure to chemical vapors was related to radiological findings (p = 0.037). Discussion: The mean age and years of dust exposure were higher than those found in the reviewed studies, with a high normality of spirometric patterns (>80%) and a lower distribution of obstructive patterns. Restrictive cases were associated with a high body mass index (p = 0.015). There was no significant difference between the spirometric parameters of the first spirometry and the most recent. Conclusions: Increased dust exposure was not statistically significant for variations in radiological and spirometric patterns, suggesting that the control measures implemented are, for the most part, adequate. Further study is recommended in the case of concomitant exposure with chemical vapors.