World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN USE OF METALWORKING FLUIDS WITH RISK OF RESPIRATORY HEALTH AND ALLERGY SYMPTOMS IN A MACHINING INDUSTRY

Liaw Soo Hui, *Zailina Hashim, Lye Munn Sann and Huda Zainuddin

ABSTRACT

This study was aimed to determine the association between use of metalworking fluids (MWFs) with respiratory health and allergy symptoms among machining industry workers. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between the uses of MWFs and each respiratory and allergy symptoms, high total IgE and cross-shift lung function decrements. Odd ratios (ORs) were adjusted for age, gender, smoking status and years of employment. The findings showed that the uses of MWFs were significantly associated with a higher risk of skin itchiness (OR 5.77, 95% CI 1.51-22.13) and high total IgE (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.09-3.76) compared with the unexposed group who do not used any chemical at work. Analysis based on type of operation showed that the machining workers reported a significantly higher risk of cough symptoms (OR 2.54, 95% CI 1.18-5.47) and Grade 1 Dyspnoea (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.00-5.16) compared with the administrative workers.

[Full Text Article]   [Download Certificate]