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Effect of outdoor air pollution on pulmonary function of non-smoking auto-rickshaw drivers in Bangalore

Background and Aim: Rapid industrialization and urbanization of Bangalore has led to a rise in the levels of ambient air pollution. Studies show that exposure to ambient air pollution is detrimental to health. Auto-rickshaw drivers are highly susceptible to the effects of this pollution. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of decrease in lung function of non-smoking auto-rickshaw drivers exposed to outdoor air pollution with relation to normal predicted values. Methods: This Cross-sectional study was done in 33 non-smoking auto-rickshaw drivers who were previously asymptomatic and driving for more than 5 years in various parts of Bangalore city in Karnataka. The following parameters of pulmonary function were assessed - FVC (L), FEV1 (L), FEV1 (%), PEFR (L/Second), MVV (L/Min), FEF50 (L/Min), FEF25-75 (L/Min) using the Helios 701 (portable) Spirometer. Statistical analysis was done using IBM statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) Version 21. Results: There was a significant decrease (P < 0.0001) in the actual value of FVC, FEV1, PEFR, MVV, FEF50 and FEF25-75 when compared with that of the predicted value. Conclusion: Our study shows a significant impairment in the lung function of the auto-drivers with a restrictive type of lung disease.