Abstract

Background: The air in poultry farms is strongly contaminated with organic, inorganic, and microbial contaminants. Constant exposure to this environment can induce various symptoms and respiratory changes. The most important determinants of lung functions are age. Respiratory muscle strength decreases with age and can impair effective cough, which is important for airway clearance. Pulmonary function tests provide a better understanding of functional changes in the lungs.

Aims and Objectives: This study aims to compare the various pulmonary function parameters in various age groups in poultry farm workers and healthy controls.

Materials and Methods: Pulmonary function tests were done using computerized autospirometer. The study was carried on 132 subjects (66 each). They were grouped according to their age (18–30 years, >30–40 years, >40–50 years, and >50–60 years). Data were analyzed using Student’s t-test, one-way ANOVA, and post hoc by Bonferroni test.

Results: We found that in healthy controls and poultry workers, there was statistically significant (P < 0.05) decrease in forced expiratory volume (FEV)-0.5, FEV1, FEV3, forced expiratory flow (FEF) 50%, FEF 75%, and maximum voluntary ventilation with age. In addition, there was statistically significant (P < 0.05) decrease in FEF 0.2–1.2, peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), FEF25%, and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) in poultry workers. However, when poultry workers were compared to controls, FVC, FEV0.5, FEV1, FEV3, FEF0.2–1.2, FEF25%, and PEFR were found to be significantly (P < 0.05) decreased.

Conclusion: Differences in respiratory pattern in poultry farm workers suggest that poultry dust has additional deteriorating effect on lung functions along with impact of age. Hence, there is a need to increase awareness about harmful effects of poultry dust and the use of personal protective equipment.

Key words: Poultry Farm Workers; Poultry Dust; Pulmonary Function Tests; Age Groups