A Study on Effect of Inhaled Pesticides on Pulmonary Function Tests in Farmers

The present study was done to evaluate the effect of inhaled pesticides on the respiratory function of farmers in rural area of Kolhapur. It was done in 225 participants (Study group-150, Control group- 75). Respiratory symptoms were noted in both the groups. Pulmonary Function Test was done using a Spirometer (RMS-HELIOS 702 by following standard protocols. It was found that respiratory symptoms like cough, dyspnoea, Wheeze, Sore throat, Haemoptosis were more common in study group as compare to control group. Also the parameters of Pulmonary Function Test viz, FVC, FEV1, PEFR, MVV were significantly decreased ( p less than 0.0001) in study group as compare to control group. The present study demonstrated significant decline of various parameters of pulmonary functions test in farmers exposed to pesticides, which is indicator of adverse effects of inhaled pesticide on respiratory functions.