Prevalence Of Chronic Respiratory Diseases In Industrial & Non-Industrial Areas Of Guwahati, Assam

Abstract

Air pollution which is a mixture of various gaseous and suspended particulate matter (SPM) affects health of the people severely. Different diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, occupational lung diseases are caused due to exposure of air pollution. In India, large percentage of population resides and works in the industrial areas, thus exposing themselves to the harmful emissions of the industries daily. The present cross-sectional study has been designed to determine the health status & prevalence of chronic respiratory diseases in both the areas. It was a questionnaire-based study where the survey was conducted among 70 (Industrial area) & 70 (Non-Industrial area) residents and workers of Guwahati, Assam. It has been seen that out of total 140 participants, 25% had Running Nose, 22% had Eye Irritation, 16% had cough for 3 consecutive months or more during the year, 15% had Phlegm, 17% had Wheezing & 11% had Hay Fever. The prevalence rate of chronic respiratory disease symptoms was higher in participants from Industrial areas than Non-Industrial areas. Participants who had symptoms of Asthma, COPD, Bronchitis, Occupational Lung Diseases such as Asbestosis, Silicosis etc were referred to visit Pulmonologist so that they get themselves treated before their symptoms get worse.