Association of Respiratory Symptoms and the Pulmonary Function Parameters in the Residents of Mine Tailing Community

Abstract

Introduction: Mine tailings is type of rock waste from mining industry which reach in immense proportions     appearing in the form of large hills on the land scape. Mines without a proper closure has impact on the environment leading to vulnerability for chronic respiratory illness.

Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms in the mine tailing community using (ATS – DLD-78A questionnaire and correlate the respiratory symptoms with lung function parameters in mine tailing community.

Methods: A cross sectional study of 400 subjects based on the prevalence of chronic bronchitis was conducted in the mine tailing community. Ethical clearance was obtained prior to the study. (ATS – DLD-78A) Questionnaire was used to record the presence of the respiratory symptoms. Using Spirotech for spirometry all the lung volumes and capacities (FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC) was obtained

Results: The prevalence rates of respiratory symptoms in mine tailing community was found to be 38.3%for cough ,32.8% for shortness of breath, 31% for phlegm  & smoking  was12.5%. A significant association was found with duration of stay in & around mine tailing area for obstructive/restrictive lung disease.

Conclusions: The significant decrease in lung function parameters and increase in the prevalence of respiratory symptoms among mine tailing community might be attributed to duration of stay in & around the mine tailing area though clinical disease is not present.  Thus the   respiratory symptom questionnaire will be an effective tool for screening respiratory illness & an useful add-on to spirometry in mine tailing community where the resources are poor.