EFFECTS OF AIRBORNE DUST ON LUNG FUNCTION OF THE EXPOSED SUBJECTS

Abstract

Background: The roadside dust is one of the most important contributors towards overall atmospheric pollution. This problem becomes even more significant when we consider it in relation to the poorly maintained roads loaded with ever increasing motor vehicle traffic, especially in urban areas. This results in many adverse effects especially to the respiratory health of the persons exposed to this dust either because of their residence or occupation in these areas. Methods: The roadside dust levels were determined by using ‘High volume portable dust sampler’ at nine sites/ busy road-crossings of Lahore. These were then, categorized into three groups (each consisting of 3 areas) as; low, medium and high pollution areas. One hundred and five subjects residing/ working in these areas for >10yrs were subjected to Vitalography for measurement of their Forced vital capacity, Forced expiratory volume in first second and Forced mid-expiratory flow rate, as part of assessment of their lung function. Results: The mean + SD values of dust in low, medium and high pollution areas were 1.231+ 0.409 mg/m³, 3.365+ 0.272 mg/m³ and 4.697+ 0.3 mg/m³. The results of Vitalography showed statistically significant impairment of lung function parameter values of the exposed residents/ workers of these areas, proportionate to the extent of exposure to the roadside dust. Conclusion: The inter-group comparison of lung function parameters in groups I, IIa and IIb showed association of impairment with the extent of exposure to roadside dust levels.