Spirometric evaluation and respiratory pattern of occupationally exposed liquefied petroleum gas vendors in Calabar metropolis, Nigeria

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a respirable mixture of two hydrocarbon-based gases stored as liquid under high pressure. Chronic inhalation of LPG irritates and potentiate inflammation of the bronchi. This study evaluated Pulmonary function of vendors in Calabar metropolis, Nigeria. The following spirometric parameters; forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume per one second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF) and forced expiratory ratio (FEV1%) were assessed to determined lung function. Demographic parameters, including chest circumference and oxygen saturation were obtained to have adequate information about participants. Five hundred and ten subjects were evaluated in the investigation. The participants were divided into two groups, Group I (test) and Group II (Control). The test group comprised of two hundred and fifty-five LPG vendors, while same number of students from University of Calabar served as control group. All participants were male subjects and of same age range (20-40years), devoid of pre-existing illness and were not on medication(s). Ethical certificate (Reg no: CRS/MH/HREC/2018/610) was obtained from the state Ministry of Health, Calabar. Lung function was measured using a Vitalograph, while oxygen saturation was measured with pulse oximeter.  The results showed significant reduction (P<0.001) in the lung function parameters among the LPG vendors (test group) compared to Control group. In conclusion, The LPG vendors showed reduced lung volumes, indicating a compromised lung function associated with obstructive pulmonary pattern.