An Epidemiological Study on Health Status of Cement Workers

Workers engaged in construction field are exposed to various occupational hazardous substances. Various health problems and progressive complications have been reported to result from long term cement exposure. Recent studies suggest that occupational exposure to cement dust may have deleterious effect on lung, liver and epithelial tissues. The present study comprises 633 cases which include masons, helpers, concrete mixers, tile workers and loading and unloading workers. Seventy four percent cases have more than 10 years of exposure in cement work and 16 % over 20 years. Forty three percentages of individuals are masons, 15 % helpers, 9 % concrete mixers, 6 % tile workers and 27 % loading and unloading workers. Masons and tile workers have high frequency of cutaneous problems. Pulmonary impairment and skin related problems are reported by most of helpers and concrete mixers. Loading and unloading workers have all these symptoms in higher percentage.