Title: Study of Effect of Air Pollution on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in daily labour working at cement warehouse with and without Breathing Masks
Authors: Dr Sandhyarani Moharana, Dr Debasish Das
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v6i8.39
Abstract
Background: Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) recording is an essential measure in the evaluation of lung function in the subjects exposed to cement and dust due to their work environment. It is helpful in monitoring exposure of cement and impairment of lung function and wheather breathing mask has any benificial effect.
Aims and Objectives: To evaluate and compare PEFR in daily labour working at cement warehouse with and without breathing mask near railway station, Baleswer, Odisha.
Material and Methods: The study group comprised of 100 healthy daily labour aged about 25 – 50 years. The study subjects were divided into two groups, group 1 comprised of 50 daily labour who were not using breathing masks and group 2 comprised of 50 daily labour who were using breathing masks. For the determination of PEFR we used Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter. At three time measurement, the highest value of PEFR was recorded. Formula for prediction of PEFR was estimated by linear regression analysis.
Results: There were no significant differences between the predicted value and actual value of PEFR in the labour using breathing mask and not using breathing mask though there were differences.
Conclusion: Reference values of PEFR are affected by regional, environmental and anthropometric factors. Hence, it is necessary to have regional reference values for daily labour.
