Effects of Air Pollution on the Vital Capacity of Commercial Motorcyclists in Nigeria Population
G. U. Ezeja *
Department of Physiotherapy, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
C. U. Onwudiwe
Department of Physiotherapy, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
O. D. Nwodo
Department of Physiotherapy, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
G. Umahi-Ottah
Department of Physiology, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
N. D. Nwobodo
Department of Physiotherapy, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Ambient air pollution is a serious challenge to human health in most West African countries including Nigeria.
Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the effects of dust inhalation on the vital capacity of commercial motorcyclists in Abakaliki metropolis.
Methods: 200 subjects participated in this study, 100 commercial motorcyclists (test group) and 100 non-motorcyclists (control group). The mean ± S.D of their age, height and weight were calculated. Vital capacity was measured using a spirometer. A questionnaire and consent form was filled by every participant before the commencement of the study. A handheld laser dust measuring device called air sampler PCE-PCO 1 was used to analyze the quantity, quality and sizes of particulate matters present in the research area.
Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics; Mean and standard deviations were calculated and the Z-test was used to test if the mean were significantly different. Level of significance was set at 95%.
Results: The age of participants were within the range of 25 – 30 years. Commercial motorcyclists were exposed to particulate matter 0.5, 1.0 and 2.5 µm. The vital capacity of commercial motorcyclists was significantly lower than that of non-motorcyclists (p =0.01). Furthermore, a significant decrease in the vital capacity of commercial motorcyclists was observed when correlated with the number of years spent in the job (p = 0.03). There was also a significant correlation between vital capacity and hours spent per week among commercial motorcyclists (r = 0.245).
Conclusion: Commercial motorcyclists need to be encouraged to adopt respiratory health safety strategies like use of full-face helmets, practice of active cycle of breathing techniques and also, be educated on air pollution hazards by public health workers.
Keywords: Ambient air pollution, occupational hazards, lung capacity.