Impact of Occupational Exposure on Respiratory Function and General Health: A Comparative Study of Construction and Non-Construction Workers

Abstract

Background: Occupational health is essential for ensuring workers’ well-being, especially among vulnerable groups like construction workers. This study aims to assess respiratory function and general health among construction workers (exposed group) compared to non-construction workers (unexposed group). This comparison addresses the health risks of prolonged dust and chemical exposure associated with construction work.
Methods: Conducted as a community-based, cross-sectional study, data collection took place over 12 months at the Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Dehradun. The study sample included 500 participants, divided equally into exposed (construction workers) and unexposed (non-construction workers) groups. Eligibility criteria included an age range of 18–60 years and at least one year of occupational exposure for the exposed group. Respiratory function was assessed using the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR), while general health status was evaluated through the Short Form Health and Labor Questionnaire (SF-HLQ). Data analysis utilized chi-square tests and multinomial logistic regression.
Results: The exposed group demonstrated significantly lower PEFR values (mean: 410.92 L/min) compared to the unexposed group (mean: 436.96 L/min, p < 0.001), suggesting a marked respiratory function impairment among construction workers. Notably, the exposed group had a higher prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms and related health conditions. Additionally, disparities in general health were observed, with construction workers reporting higher rates of work absenteeism due to illness, reduced physical activity, and lower education levels. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and chewing tobacco were more prevalent among the construction group.
Conclusion: The findings highlight significant health disparities between construction and non-construction workers, especially in respiratory function and general well-being. Occupational health policies targeting construction workers should prioritize regular health screenings, protective equipment usage, and smoking cessation programs. These interventions can mitigate adverse health impacts and improve quality of life among construction workers. Further longitudinal research is recommended to explore causative factors in occupational health risks among this population.