Effects of Chalk dust on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in School Teachers
Journal Title: International Journal of Medical and Health Sciences - Year 2013, Vol 2, Issue 4
Abstract
Introduction: Chalk and board is a traditional and still the most commonly used teaching aid in developing countries like India. Chalk is major source of fine particulate matter in classroom, which may produce pulmonary function impairments. Aims and objectives: The objective of the study was to compare Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) of school teachers exposed to chalk dust with matched controls. Materials and methods: A comparative study was conducted in total of 150 participants, 75 teachers (study group) exposed to chalk dust and 75 controls. PEFR was measured in all participants using Cipla’s peak flow meter with EU scale. PEFR in the study and control groups were compared for both males and females using unpaired t test. Results: PEFR was significantly lower in study group (teachers) as compared to controls in both males (t value -5.350, p<0.05) and females (t value -5.101, p<0.05). Conclusion: Teachers using chalk and board are at an increased risk of developing occupationally related pulmonary function impairments and hence there is a need to shift from routine chalk and board to marker and whiteboard.
Authors and Affiliations
Kamini D. Nikam, Munira A. Hirkani
Keywords
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