Occupational health hazards in women beedi rollers in Bihar, India
Yasmin, S.; Afroz, B.; Hyat, B.; D'Souza, D.
Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 85(1): 87-91
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 1432-0800 PMID: 20512312 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-010-0037-6Document Number: 234368
We studied the health problems of 197 female beedi rollers in Patna, Bihar, India to ascertain the effects of beedi rolling on health. The study found that more than 70% of the beedi rollers suffered from eye, gastrointestinal and nervous problems while more than 50% of the respondents suffered from respiratory problems, mostly throat burning and cough. More than 75% of the respondents faced osteological problems. Total RBC, WBC and platelet counts of the beedi rollers were significantly lower in comparison to the control subjects. Differential leucocyte count showed significantly risen lymphocytes and eosinophils and lowered neutrophils and monocytes in the beedi rollers as compared to the control group. Haemoglobin levels were lower among beedi rollers compared to the control group. SGPT (ALT) enzyme concentration, a parameter of liver dysfunction was significantly higher in the beedi rollers as compared to the control group. Thus, the study concluded that beedi rolling may cause significant health hazards.
Document emailed within 0-6 h
