Early lung function changes after short heavy exposure to chrysotile asbestos in non-smoking women.

Abstract

Forced spirometry, including maximal flow-volume (MEFV) curves, were evaluated in 35 non-smoking asbestos female workers submitted to a short heavy chrysotile textile exposure and compared to a case by case matched population. Exposed women presented certain respiratory signs and symptoms; they also had significantly lower forced vital capacities and maximal flow rates at higher (PEF), mid (MEF50%) and lower lung volumes (MEF25%) than women not exposed to asbestos. Duration of exposure to asbestos showed a significant negative correlation with FVC, FEV1, PEF, MEF50% and MEF25%. It is concluded that short heavy exposure to chrysotile is deleterious, causing significant reduction in lung volumes. Moreover, a significant reduction in airflow rates was also apparent.

• Authors: R Rodriguez-Roisin, C Picado, J Roca, S Arrigo, A Agusti-Vidal
• Journal: Bulletin europeen de physiopathologie respiratoire (Bull Eur Physiopathol Respir) 1986 May-Jun Vol. 22 Issue 3 Pg. 225-9 ISSN: 0395-3890 [Print] England
• PMID: 3730639 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Asbestos

Topics

• Adult
• Airway Obstruction (diagnosis, etiology)
• Asbestos (adverse effects)
• Female
• Forced Expiratory Volume
• Humans
• Maximal Expiratory Flow Rate
• Middle Aged
• Occupational Diseases (etiology)
• Peak Expiratory Flow Rate
• Vital Capacity