Occupational Dust Exposure and Lung Function Among Cement Factory Workers in Borno State

Cement dust exposure in industrial settings is a known occupational risk factor for restrictive and obstructive lung diseases, particularly in workers with prolonged exposure histories. This study assessed occupational dust exposure levels and their effect on lung function among workers at a cement production facility in Maiduguri, Borno State, North East Nigeria. A cross-sectional comparative design was used, with 140 cement workers and 70 unexposed office staff as controls. Environmental dust sampling was conducted using gravimetric techniques, and spirometric lung function testing was performed on all participants using a portable spirometer. Results showed that mean respirable dust concentrations in production areas were 8.2 mg/m cubed, exceeding the permissible threshold of 5 mg/m cubed. Cement workers had significantly lower FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC ratios compared to controls (p less than 0.001). Respiratory symptoms were reported by 69.3 percent of exposed workers, with chronic cough and breathlessness being most common. Duration of employment and proximity to kiln areas were the strongest predictors of lung function decline. Respiratory protective device use was inconsistent in 76.4 percent of production workers. The study recommends comprehensive dust control engineering measures, mandatory pre-employment and periodic spirometric screening, and enhanced PPE supply and compliance monitoring for cement industry workers in Borno State. Keywords: cement dust, lung function, spirometry, occupational respiratory disease, Borno State.