Respiratory Symptoms and Lung function among Female Flower Farm workers in Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: The workforces in the growing flower farms of Ethiopia are mainly females. Greenhouse workers
are exposed to pesticides, fertilizers and dust, and might be at risk for developing respiratory diseases.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess respiratory symptoms and lung function of greenhouse workers and
compare them to packinghouse flower farm workers.
Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted comparing female flower farmworkers from
greenhouses, with female workers in packinghouses. Participants were interviewed for chronic respiratory
symptoms using a standardized questionnaire from the British Medical Research Council. A Minispir light
spirometer, with Winspiro software was used for lung function tests to measure Forced vital capacity (FVC) and
Forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV1). Study groups background characteristics were compared using an
independent t-test and chi-square test. Poisson regression analysis and a general linear model were also performed.
Results: Three hundred fourteen workers participated,160 from greenhouses and 159 from pack houses. The
response rate showed that 99.7% was for the interview and 98% was for spirometry. The mean (SD) age of
greenhouse workers was 26(8) years and of packinghouse workers 24(7) years. There was no significant difference
in respiratory symptoms and spirometry indices while comparing workers in greenhouse with workers from
packinghouse. But service month was a significant predictor for the reduction of FEV1, by a reduction of
2ml/month with a p-value of 0.01.
Conclusion: There was no difference in respiratory symptoms and lung function parameters comparing
greenhouse and packinghouse workers from flower farms. Service duration was a significant predictor for the
reduction of FEV1. This may indicate the development of lung obstruction among flower farm workers over a
course of time. Workers respiratory health including lung function change needs to be monitored regularly.