Prevalence of Byssinosis among Spinning Mill Workers: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in Faisalabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Spinning industries are major sources of airborne cotton dust, exposing approximately 0.8 million workers worldwide. Chronic exposure can cause respiratory disorders, including byssinosis, characterized by chest tightness, coughing, wheezing, and impaired lung function. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of byssinosis and other respiratory problems among spinning mill workers and their association with duration of exposure. A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2021 to January 2022 in a spinning mill near Ghani Abad, Faisalabad. A total of 199 workers with ≥2 years of experience were randomly selected from seven departments. Data on demographics, occupational history, smoking habits, and respiratory symptoms were collected via structured questionnaires. Spirometry was performed to measure FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, and PEFR. Byssinosis severity was graded according to WHO lung function criteria. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to determine associations between work experience and respiratory outcomes. The most frequently reported symptoms were pneumonia (59.8%), cough (50.3%), phlegm (41.2%), and chest tightness (37.2%). Significant associations (p<0.05) were observed between work experience and phlegm, breathlessness, chest illness, and pneumonia. Spirometry indicated 17% of workers had moderate, and 62% had severe lung function impairment. Cases of chronic byssinosis were predominantly among workers with 4–5 years of exposure. Cotton dust exposure in spinning mills is strongly associated with respiratory problems and byssinosis, with longer exposure increasing severity. Preventive measures, including dust control and regular health monitoring, are essential to protect worker health.