Original Articles PATTERN OF RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS IN MOTORCYCLISTS IN LAHORE

Abstract

Background:
Road-traffic emissions induce adverse health effects, mainly respiratory health problems. Due to long-term exposure to these air pollutants, motorcyclists are at high risk of developing respiratory illnesses or worsening pre-existent diseases. This study aimed to determine the pattern of respiratory symptoms in motorcyclists in Lahore.

Material and Methods:
This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from Jan 2019-July 2019 among motorcyclists in Lahore. Using convenience sampling technique, a sample of 209 motorcyclists was selected. A self-constructed pre-tested questionnaire was used. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.

Results:
The mean age of participants was 34.8±11.4 years. The mean duration of using a motorcycle was 14.9±8.8 years. The majority of motorcyclists traveled 1-3 hours per day. About 38.3% participants reported of having frequent respiratory illnesses. The cough was the main symptom reported by 63.6% of participants. Other reported symptoms were wheezing (20.1%), shortness of breath (37.8%), chest tightness (33.5%), nasal congestion (17.7%), sneezing (39.7%) irritation of the throat (47.4%), and asthma (22.5%). Only 29% of motorcyclists used masks while riding the bikes. Twenty-two percent of respondents gave a history of hospitalization due to respiratory illnesses.

Conclusion:
The prevalence of respiratory symptoms among motorcyclists was high in Lahore. The cough was the main symptom, reported by 63.6% of participants. Other symptoms included productive cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, symptoms of rhinitis, irritation of throat and asthma. A very low percentage of motorcyclists used face masks.