Pulmonary Function Tests and Work-Related Respiratory and Allergic

Abstract

Bakers are frequently exposed to various irritant chemicals during work which can induce respiratory problems. In this study, pulmonary function tests and self-reported respiratory and allergic symptoms in bakers were compared with matched control subjects.
The frequency of respiratory and allergic symptoms was evaluated in a sample of 58 Iranian bakers and 58 control subjects using a questionnaire. Pulmonary function tests (PFT) were also measured in all participants.
All respiratory symptoms were significantly higher in bakers than control croup (P<0.05 to p<0.005). All allergic symptoms in bakers were also significantly greater than control group (P<0.05 to p<0.005). In addition, all respiratory (except sputum) and allergic (except urticaria) symptoms were significantly higher in bakers during work compared to rest period (p<0.05 to p<0.01) during work. Most PFT values except MEF25 were also significantly lower in bakers than control subjects (p<0.05 to p<0.001).
These results showed that bakers have a higher frequency of work related respiratory symptoms and to a lesser extend allergic symptoms particularly during the work period. PFT values were also significantly reduced among bakers.