Peak Expiratory Flow Rate And Cardio-Respiratory Fitness Of Workers Exposed To Dust – In And Around Rural City

Exposure to dust on lung capacity and cardio-respiratory fitness of workers from different occupations Objective Examination and comparative analysis of the effects of exposure to 'dust and plant source particulate matter' on lung capacity and cardio-respiratory fitness of workers from different occupational activities. ResultsPeak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), physical fitness index (PFI) and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) of control subjects were significantly higher than stone grinding, mill and agricultural workers. Among the three groups exposed to 'dust and plant source particulate matter', the mean values of PEFR and VO2 max of stone grinders were significantly lower than mill and agricultural workers. Conclusions It is concluded that occupational activities which involve exposure to 'dust and plant source particulate matter' such as stone grinding, mill and agricultural works affect the lung capacity and cardio-respiratory fitness of workers and the maximum deterioration of these parameters have been observed in the stone grinders.