Spirometric Outcomes and Oxidative Stress Among Cement Factory Workers: Results From a Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Cement industry workers are at high risk due to the dust emitted at various steps of its production. Pulmonary damage is the most important hazard. This work aimed to evaluate lung function and oxidative stress parameters of the workers. A cross-sectional study involving 97 workers in four cement factories was conducted from December/2019 to March/2020. Data collection was performed by spirometry test and measuring oxidative stress parameters. There were significant differences in forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) between workers in milling and packaging departments. Negative correlations were found between oxidative stress and spirometric parameters. Prolonged occupational exposure to cement dust could worsen the pulmonary function. Working in milling department is associated with a pronounced effect on oxidative stress. Higher oxidative stress parameters were associated with lower pulmonary function.