Abstract

Background: Sweeping of streets, a poor man’s occupation is a simple and humble job. Street sweeping with short handled brooms without precautionary measures affect the respiratory system. Aims &
Objective: The main objective of this study was to assess the pulmonary functions and also the relationship between the duration of exposure to dust and lung function parameters in female sweepers.
Materials and Methods: Thirty female sweepers and thirty healthy females were included in this study. The subjects were matched for age, height and weight. The pulmonary function test was performed by using computerized RMS medspiror and results were compared by students unpaired ‘t’ test. The overall mean pulmonary function data were also correlated with the duration of exposure using linear regression.
Results: The study showed a statistically significant reduction in FVC, FEV1, PEFR, FEF25-75% and FEF200-1200 and this impairment was increased with duration of exposure to dust in sweepers. Conclusion: Our study showed a positive relationship between the extent of exposure to street dust and decreasing lung function. It is suggested that protective measures, such as long brooms and appropriate respiratory protective equip¬ment, should be provided to workers engaged in sweeping; the workers should undergo periodic spirometry tests.