Dust Exposure and Lung Function Among Agricultural Workers

Abstract Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disease that is characterized by limited airflow associated with inflammatory response in the airways and lungs to particles and gases. Agricultural dust exposure is a contributing factor to the morbidity and mortality of COPD.1 Recent epidemiologic studies suggest that organic and inorganic dust accounts for 20 percent of the patients with COPD.2–4 Forced expiratory volume (FEV) is the parameter most commonly used to assess COPD. The purpose of this research proposal is to utilize a handheld COPD screening device, Vitalograph, to characterize the disease burden among agricultural workers in Appalachia and surrounding counties who report dust exposure related to agricultural practices. The objectives of the pilot grant are to determine the prevalence of undiagnosed COPD among agricultural workers in the general population. Additionally, there has been scientific evidence to suggest that different farming commodities practices affect health outcomes, in particular, respiratory outcomes. Further understanding how does farming commodity practice affect the presence of undiagnosed COPD among agricultural workers is critical to prevention of COPD. Lastly, the disease progression of COPD is affected by age. Among agricultural workers with mild/moderate COPD, understanding how does age modify the association between dust exposure levels and undiagnosed COPD will help to further understand disease progression and prognosis.