Study of Morbidity Pattern among the Workers of Jute Mill in Eastern Nepal

Abstract

The occupational disease burden is growing exceptionally. In developing and newly industrialized countries, exposure to high levels of chemicals and dusts, hard physical work, heat stress is common. The workers of jute mill are susceptible to various morbid conditions. The concept of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in Nepal is in its initial stage. This study was conducted to find out morbidity pattern among workers in the industrial corridor of eastern Nepal. Cross-sectional study was conducted in Arihant Multi-Fibers Ltd., located in industrial corridor of eastern Nepal. Nine hundred subjects were enrolled from jute processing departments using systematic random sampling technique. The data was collected using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaires, general physical examination. Arterial blood pressure, height, weight and visual acuity of distant vision were measured. Analysis of data was done using SPSS V12.0. The highest number of workers (23.8%) was in age group of 25-29 years. About 17 % workers were illiterate. The most of the workers (41.6%) were working for less than 5 years of duration. About 46 % workers were tobacco chewers. About 84 % of workers did not practice any kind of Personal Protective Equipments. The prevalent morbid conditions were underweight (21%), acute upper respiratory infection (14.2%) headache (10.7%), injuries (10.3%), hypertension (10.1%), gastritis and duodenitis (9.8%), refractive error (9.7%), hearing problem (8%), pain in limb (7.4%), low back pain (7%). Association between cough and dust exposure was found. Underweight, acute respiratory tract infection, headache and injuries were common among the jute workers. Practice of personal protective equipment was not satisfactory in the factory.