Chest Tightness and Chronic Cough; Respiratory Symptoms Among Home-Based Textile Industry Workers

Abstract

Background: The textile industry, rooted in agriculture, stands as Pakistan's second-largest employer. Within this sector, home-based textile production plays a significant role, albeit largely unregulated and undocumented, resulting in substandard working conditions. Workers in this setting are frequently exposed to cotton dust, posing serious health risks alongside other occupational hazards. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, particularly chest tightness and chronic cough, among home-based textile industry workers in Jhang, Pakistan, underscoring the importance of preventive measures.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 1, 2017, to February 28, 2018. A sample of 300 participants with over 20 years of work experience was selected from 10 home-based textile units. Data collection utilized a structured questionnaire and analysis was performed using SPSS 25.

Results: The study revealed that 23% of workers reported chest tightness and 18.7% reported chronic cough. These symptoms were notably prevalent among workers aged 45 and above, those with limited formal education, non-users of masks during work, and those directly exposed to cotton dust.

Conclusion: Workers in the home-based textile industry face respiratory symptoms due to exposure to cotton dust. This underscores the necessity of health education and the enforcement of protective measures, such as mask usage and dust control, to safeguard their respiratory health.