Journal of Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences

Background & Aim: Workers of auto parts manufacturing industry expose to the gases, vapors and dust created from devices. This exposure will probably increase the risk of occupational lung diseases. This study aimed to determine the respiratory problems and spirometric parameters of workers in the industry of auto parts.

Methods: This is a case-control study in which 48 workers in an auto parts manufacturing industry were selected as case group and 47 administrative staff as control group. Data about the prevalence of respiratory symptoms was collected through the standard questionnaire of respiratory symptoms according to the American Lung Association recommendation. Pulmonary function parameters were measured using a calibrated spirometer. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20 and statistical tests including t-test, Wilcoxon and chi-square.

Results: The mean age of participants in the case and control groups was 29.5 and 33.72 respectively. The average concentration of pollutant in the manufacturing unit was 5.51±2.3 mg/m3. In addition, the most and the least respiratory problems were related to dyspnea and cough with sputum, respectively. Furthermore, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were different in various groups (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Regarding the frequency of respiratory problems and decrease in spirometric parameters among workers exposed to risk factors, protective measures should be applied against pollutants. Moreover, it is recommended to educate workers about this issue.