Serum Bicarbonale Levels In Cement Factory Workers: A Predictor For Occupational Lung Disease

Abstract

Pulmonary function tests are routinely used to assess the pulmonary functional status of workers exposed to cement dust in cement factories. There is a no biochemical marker as yet employed for this. A comparison of the serum bicarbonate levels of workers in the production line against those in the administration is under taken seeking for any clue to its usefulness along this line. Fifty five male volunteers from the work force of Nigercem factory Nkalagu were randomly selected. Thirty five were from the production department while 20 were from the administration department as controls. The serum sodium, potassium, bicarbonate and chloride levels were assayed and analysed. There was a statistically significant different in the bicarbonate levels between those on the production line and those from the administration 31.0± 2.65 mmol/l vs 25.8 + 2.15 mmol/l P< 0.05. The significant of this difference is considered a logical basis for further assessment of serum bicarbonate level as a predictor for occupational lung disease in cement factory workers.

Journal of Medical Investigation and Practice Vol. 4: 2003: 15-18