Effect of Outdoor Air Pollution on Pulmonary Function of Non‑smoking Auto‑rickshaw Drivers in Bangalore

  • Vedesh Kumar Babu Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
  • Komaladevi S Damodar Department of Physiology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
Keywords: Auto‑Rickshaw drivers, spirometer, lung function tests

Abstract

Background and Aim: Rapid industrialization and urbanization of Bangalore has led to a rise in the levels of ambient air pollution. Studies show that exposure to ambient air pollution is detrimental to health. Auto‑rickshaw drivers are highly susceptible to the effects of this pollution. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of decrease in lung function of non‑smoking auto‑rickshaw drivers exposed to outdoor air pollution with relation to normal predicted values. Methods: This Cross‑sectional study was done in 33 non‑smoking auto‑rickshaw drivers who were previously asymptomatic and driving for more than 5 years in various parts of Bangalore city in Karnataka. The following parameters of pulmonary function were assessed ‑ FVC (L), FEV1 (L), FEV1 (%), PEFR (L/Second), MVV (L/Min), FEF50 (L/Min), FEF25‑75 (L/Min) using the Helios 701 (portable) Spirometer. Statistical analysis was done using IBM statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) Version 21. Results: There was a significant decrease (P < 0.0001) in the actual value of FVC, FEV1, PEFR, MVV, FEF50 and FEF25‑75 when compared with that of the predicted value. Conclusion: Our study shows a significant impairment in the lung function of the auto‑drivers with a restrictive type of lung disease.

Published
2017-03-31
How to Cite
Babu, V. K., & Damodar, K. S. (2017). Effect of Outdoor Air Pollution on Pulmonary Function of Non‑smoking Auto‑rickshaw Drivers in Bangalore. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Physiology, 4(1), 30-33. Retrieved from https://ijcep.org/index.php/ijcep/article/view/160