Occupational and respiratory abnormalities among grain mill workers

Abstract

Wheat flour is a complex organic dust with a large multiplicity of allergic effects when encountered for a considerable time. There is a growing accord on the toxic effect of flour dust on respiratory functions of flour mill workers. Dust inhalation over a long period leads to proliferative and fibrotic changes in respiratory tract and lungs. Flour production is predominantly in the unorganized sector involves the milling process and milling is accomplished by grinding grain between stones and a steel wheel which leads to workers exposure to floor dust. Therefore, the present study was undertaken with the objective of assessment of the prevalence of occupational allergic disorders, skin problems, lower and upper respiratory tract problems among flour mill workers. The findings showed that the high prevalence of allergic disorders among flour mill workers were seen and approximate half of the respondents were in agreement that they have problems such as cough, eczema, wheezing, nasal congestion, poor sense of smell, hives/swelling, shortness of breath, itchy nose, headache and sneezing due to dust. Grain mill workers were also reported the skin problems such as skin rash, itching, dry skin, hives, swelling and blistery rashes. Respondents were reported about frequent or constant cough and wheezing while 19 per cent respondents were strongly agreed about chest tightness, problem of breathing and pneumonias as lower respiratory tract problems and frequent bronchitis. Majority of the respondents were suffering from upper respiratory tract problems such as nasal congestion, runny nose, postal nasal drip, itchy nose, red or itchy eyes, sinus pressure or pain, poor sense of smell, frequent ear infections, frequent sinus infections, frequent colds and hoarse voice.