European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

TO MEASURE PEAK EXPIRATORY FLOW RATE IN BUS DRIVERS AND CONDUCTORS AS AN INDEX OF RESPIRATORY FUNCTION INFLUENCED BY ROAD TRAFFIC EMISSIONS IN SOUTH INDIA: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Gowri Velayutham, Fidha Parvez Khan F.* and Sathya Palaniswamy

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Air pollution is a huge problem that has been slowly evolving throughout the world for last few decades. The density of vehicles around the central area of Chennai is comparatively more. People who are exposed to this polluted air might be prone to develop some higher degree of respiratory impairment and hence were chosen to be studied. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) is a simple, non invasive test for ventilatory efficiency which is used widely in clinical practice. Aim & Objectives: The aim of this study was to measure the lung function of bus drivers and conductors in terms of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) and to compare with indoor office workers and also to correlate with the duration of exposure. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among bus drivers and conductors. The sample size was 200. We recorded PEFR of 100 bus drivers and conductors and compared with the age matched 100 controls who were employed as indoor office workers. Results: PEFR was significantly reduced in the bus drivers and conductors as compared to control subjects. Discussion: The decrease in lung function is due to continuous occupational exposure to air pollutants which has an adverse effect on their respiratory functions. Conclusion: We conclude that the lung functions of bus conductors and drivers are compromised significantly. There are multiple ways to reduce and prevent the harmful effects of pollutant exposure in future by regular respiratory checkups, encouraging personal protective equipment and imparting health education to them.

Keywords: Peak Expiratory Flow Rate, Bus Conductors, Bus Drivers,Vehicle Exhaust, Air pollution.