Occupational exposure and respiratory health problems among nutmeg production workers in Grenada, the Caribbean

Background: The nutmeg industry is a major contributor to the Grenadian economy. However, workers in the industry face many environmental and occupational health risks. Objectives: The goal of this study was to investigate respiratory health problems and possible related occupational exposures among nutmeg production workers. Methods: A questionnaire, spirometry and allergen skin-prick test was given to 92 nutmeg workers. Samples for measurement of airborne dust, mold, and phosphine were also collected from work environments. Results: Approximately half of the workers with lower respiratory symptoms such as dry cough (49.4%) and shortness of breath (42.9%) reported that their symptoms were work related. Spirometry results showed that 18.8% of workers had obstruction. Area geometric mean (GM) inhalable dust concentrations, GM personal concentrations, and total mold spores during work activities were found to be high. Conclusions: High prevalence of respiratory symptoms among workers in this facility was consistent with measured levels of dust and mold, and was widespread over all work areas.