Cardio-Pulmonary Risk Markers in Automobile Sprayers and Saw Millers

Abstract

Other than oxygen, the air that enters the respiratory system contains several substances. These substances are derived from a heterogeneous mixture of gases, liquids and particulate matter.  Exposure to air pollutants cause deleterious effects on the cardio-respiratory system. This study sought to investigate the effect(s) that air pollutants have on markers of cardiovascular and respiratory health in occupationally exposed individuals. An ex post factor study was conducted on 60 ethically recruited individuals from Enugu metropolis of Enugu state, Nigeria. They were assigned into three groups (A-C) of 20 subjects each. With group A acting as control, groups B and C comprised of automobile spray painters and saw millers respectively. Participants’ respiratory (Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR)); cardiovascular (Electrocardiogram (ECG), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP)) and hematological parameters (Fibrinogen concentrations and C-Reactive Proteins)) were assayed. Blood samples were also collected with parameters checked and compared with control. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) on collected data showed diastolic pressure (DBP) to have significantly increased with significant differences (p < .05) in FEV, whilst presenting insignificant values in PEFR and FVC of group C subjects. Also, a moderately strong and significant positive relationship (from Pearson Product Moment Correlation) was seen between ECG parameters (QRS and P-R) and duration of work for control (group A). Routine spirometry, haematological and ECG tests are recommended for individuals who are exposed to air pollutants as a result of occupational predisposition.