P-503 HEALTH EFFECTS OF DUST IN RURAL COTTAGE INDUSTRIES IN INDIA

Abstract Introduction Dust and aerosol exposure affect the health of rural cottage industries workers and the residents near these units. Sericulture and incense sticks (agarbathi) units employ mostly women workers. The objective of this study was to detect prevalence of allergic bronchitis and asthma among workers in these industries and the nearby residents. Methods 50 sericulture and 50 agarbathi workers working for more than 5 years, and 50 nearby residents, all females aged 30 to 45 years were enrolled for this study with their consent. After general clinical examination and medical history, these participants underwent pulmonary function tests. Results Findings in each group of 50 persons showed: Asthma in 4 and allergic bronchitis in 11 sericulture workers. Asthma in 3 and allergic bronchitis in 14 agarbathi workers. Asthma in 1 and allergic bronchitis in 9 nearby residents. Discussion Dust and aerosols remain in the workplace and surrounding environment, affecting the workers and nearby residents. Workers are exposed to aerosols when silkworm cocoons are placed in hot water for reeling silk yarn. Workers in cocoon storage places and trading centers are exposed to epithelial dust from silkworm moths and cocoons. Previous studies had shown sericulture workers develop sensitization to silkworm allergens. In manually rolled agarbathi units, workers are exposed to chemicals and dusting powder while mixing ingredients, rolling, and dusting the agarbathis. Conclusion Asthma and allergic bronchitis are prevalent in these workers and nearby residents. Mechanization and barriers for dust is not possible in small units. Use of masks is recommended. These industries should be outside residential areas.