The Relation Between Pulmonary Functions and Serum Biomarkers of Lung Diseases Among Workers Exposed to Calcium Carbonate.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the association between pulmonary function and serum biomarkers among Egyptian workers occupationally exposed to ultrafine calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 ) particles, which can penetrate biological membranes and accumulate in the lungs.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 80 nonsmoking males: 40 CaCO 3 -exposed workers and 40 matched controls. Participants underwent medical and occupational history taking, clinical examination, spirometry, and serum biomarker measurement (Clara cell protein 16 [CC16], matrix metalloproteinase-9 [MMP-9], and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 [TIMP-1]).

RESULTS

Exposed workers demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms along with significantly reduced pulmonary function indices. They also showed decreased CC16 and elevated MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels. Biomarkers correlated with lung function decline and exposure duration.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic CaCO 3 exposure was associated with increased respiratory risk, necessitating protective workplace measures.