STUDY OF VENTILATORY LUNG FUNCTION TESTS OF BUS DRIVERS IN PUNE CITY

Background &Objectives: Bus drivers are highly exposed to diesel exhaust and other atmospheric pollutants. Thus the study was planned to study ventilatory lung function tests of bus drivers in Pune city. Methods: Age and height matched control group subjects (n=31) lung function tests were recorded by computerized spirometer and were compared with bus drivers working for 5-10 years (study group I, n=31) and working for 10-20 years (study group II, n=31) Data was analyzed by student's unpaired‘t’ test. Results &Interpretation: Study group I and Study group II bus drivers showed statistically significant decrease in ERV, FVC and FEV1 than control group subjects. Study group II showed statistically significant reduction in FVC than study group I subjects. Conclusion: Ventilatory lung function tests were decreased in study group subjects. The results suggested combined (obstructive and restrictive) nature of lung diseases.