Pulmonary and Inflammatory Health Effects of Long-term Gypsum Dust Exposure: A Comparative Study in Calabar Municipality, Nigeria

Abstract

Airborne particulate matter (PM) poses significant health risks to individuals exposed to occupational and environmental pollutants, such as calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O), particularly affecting the respiratory system. This study assessed the effects of long-term inhalation of CaSO₄·2H₂O dust on lung function and inflammatory biomarkers among exposed individuals in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria. A total of 80 adult participants were enrolled and assigned to two groups. Exposed individuals were assigned to Group I, whereas non-exposed individuals were assigned to Group II. Pulmonary function was assessed using a Vitalograph, while ELISA kits were used to assess inflammation. The exposed group showed decreases in key pulmonary parameters, such as FEV₁, FEV₁%, and PEFR, compared with the control group. Conversely, respiratory rate and minute volume were elevated in the exposed group relative to the controls. Inflammatory biomarker levels were significantly elevated (P < 0.001) in the exposed group compared with the controls. Significant increases were observed in FVC, respiratory rate, and minute ventilation, suggesting compensatory respiratory mechanisms. Serum levels of CRP and IL-6 were significantly elevated in the exposed group, confirming the presence of systemic inflammation associated with dust inhalation. The exposed group showed decreases in key pulmonary parameters compared with the control group. These findings indicate that chronic exposure to calcium sulfate dihydrate dust is associated with reduced lung function and an obstructive respiratory pattern. This was reflected in reduced spirometric volumes. The findings of this study indicate that chronic exposure to calcium sulfate dihydrate dust is associated with reduced lung function and an obstructive respiratory pattern. These outcomes emphasise the need for effective dust-control measures, the use of personal protective equipment, and regular medical monitoring of workers in dust-prone environments to prevent long-term respiratory complications.