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KMID : 1021120120240040356
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
2012 Volume.24 No. 4 p.356 ~ p.364
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The Assessment of Pulmonary Function in Dental Technicians
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Kim Kyoung-Han
Lee Jong-In
Choi Min
Myong Jun-Pyo
Park Yong-Sang
Jang Tae-Won
Koo Jung-Wan
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Abstract
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Objectives: Dental technicians are exposed to various toxic materials in the workplace. The objectives of this study were to assess the pulmonary function of dental technicians and to evaluate the association between work-related factors and pulmonary function of dental technicians.
Methods: Study subjects were 209 dental technicians in the Korean Dental Technologist Association. A self-report questionnaire including general characteristics, respiratory symptoms, and work-related characteristics was conducted on study subjects, and a pulmonary function test (PFT) was done. Study subjects were classified into two groups(normal and abnormal pulmonary function) based on the pulmonary function test (PFT).
Results: 43 subjects (20.6%) among 209 subjects had abnormal pulmonary function. After adjusting for general characteristics such as age, sex, past medical history, familial history, and smoking status, the odds ratio for work duration (per year) was 1.42(95% confidence interval (CI) 1.14~1.83). After adjusting for general and work-related characteristics, the odds ratio for work duration (per year) was 1.48(95% CI 1.18~1.92).
Conclusions: Dental technicians are exposed to hazardous materials, which might lead to abnormal pulmonary function. A long work duration could increase exposure time, thereby increasing the chance for abnormal pulmonary function. Therefore, pulmonary function tests should be carried out periodically in dental technicians to ensure their pulmonary health.
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KEYWORD
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Dental technicians, Respiratory function tests, Signs and symptoms, Respiratory, Workplace
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