Abstract
Background: Beedi rolling is a prevalent small-scale industry in rural Telangana, providing employment for lakhs of women. Unlike previous studies relying on epidemiological methods, we employ a comprehensive approach, integrating demographic data analysis and quantification of nicotine metabolites through Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Mass Spectrometry (LCMS).
Methods: A cohort of 320 women employed as beedi rollers and 280 women with no occupational exposure to chemicals were included in the study. Participants, aged 15 to 50 years, were selected from various villages of Jagityal and Nizamabad Districts of Telangana. The research centered on diverse health issues, encompassing hematological parameters and outcomes related to reproduction. The quantification of nicotine metabolites and other toxic components in beedi rollers was conducted using LCMS.
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Results: Demographic data analysis revealed significant distinctions in literacy rates and income between women engaged in beedi rolling and those not involved in the occupation. The hematological investigations disclosed, statistically significant decline in all haematological parameters among beedi rollers. The results also indicated an elevated incidence of tuberculosis, asthma and shoulder pain among individuals involved in beedi rolling. The findings also indicated elevated rates of infertility, miscarriage, and stillbirths in women beedi rollers. Statistical analysis confirmed a statistically significant increase in nicotine metabolites among beedi rollers.
Conclusion: The research highlights the influence of nicotine metabolites on overall health of women engaged in beedi rolling. There is a necessity to raise awareness among these women regarding the occupational risks they encounter.
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Corresponding Author
Prof. Penagaluru Pardhanandana Reddy
Research Director, Bhagwan Mahavir Hospital and Research Centre, AC Guards, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v11i12.15
