The Hidden Pulmonary Cost of Jute Processing: A Comparative Spirometric Study of Long-Term Dust-Exposed Workers

Abstract

Background: Jute processing generates organic dust capable of affecting respiratory function following prolonged occupational exposure. This study evaluated pulmonary function among workers chronically exposed to jute-mill dust compared with non-exposed individuals. Methods: This comparative observational study included 50 apparently healthy males aged 30–40 years. Twenty-five jute mill workers with at least 10 years of occupational dust exposure were compared with 25 non-dust-exposed controls. Spirometry assessed forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁), peak expiratory flow (PEF), forced expiratory flow at 50% expiration (FEF₅₀), and FEV₁/FVC. Results: Jute workers demonstrated substantially lower FVC (1.87±0.72 vs 3.38±0.69 L; p<0.001), FEV₁ (1.60±0.59 vs 2.84±0.72 L; p<0.001), FEF₅₀ (2.03±0.80 vs 3.80±1.29 L/s; p<0.001), and FEV₁/FVC (77.40±13.88% vs 87.22±7.12%; p=0.003). Obtained FVC and FEV₁ among exposed workers were approximately 64% of predicted values. Conclusion: Chronic occupational exposure to jute dust was associated with marked ventilatory impairment. Strengthened exposure control and routine respiratory surveillance are warranted. Keywords: Jute dust; Occupational air pollution; Pulmonary function; Spirometry; Textile workers