Correlation Between Exposure to Cement Dust and Lung Function Values and The Incidence of Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease Among Workers at The X Cement Factory Company Medan

Abstract

Cement industry workers are continuously exposed to airborne cement dust, which may contribute to respiratory impairment and increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Occupational exposure to particulate matter can induce oxidative stress, airway inflammation, and a progressive decline in lung function. However, evidence regarding the relationship between cement dust exposure, pulmonary function, and COPD incidence among cement workers in Indonesia remains limited. This study aimed to determine the correlation between cement dust exposure, lung function values, and the incidence of COPD among workers at X Cement Factory in Medan. This research employed a cross-sectional study design and was conducted from January to November 2024. The study involved 72 cement factory workers selected through consecutive sampling. Data were collected using the PUMA questionnaire and spirometry to assess lung function parameters, including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the associations of occupational and individual risk factors with COPD prevalence. Among the 72 respondents, 15 workers (20.8%) were identified as having COPD. The analysis showed that smoking history was significantly associated with COPD prevalence (PR = 1.875; p = 0.031). Meanwhile, work placement, age, personal protective equipment use, inhaler use, duration of employment, and working hours were not significantly associated with COPD prevalence. Lung function assessment revealed variations in spirometric parameters among workers, indicating the importance of respiratory monitoring in occupational settings. Cement dust exposure represents an important occupational respiratory health concern; however, COPD prevalence among cement workers is influenced by multiple factors, particularly smoking history. Continuous respiratory surveillance, exposure control, and preventive occupational health programs are recommended to reduce respiratory risks among cement industry workers.