Respiratory symptoms and diminished lung functions associated with occupational dust exposure among iron ore mine workers in Iran

This cross-sectional study evaluated pulmonary symptoms and lung function in 174 dust-exposed workers, as compared with 93 unexposed administrative employees, at an iron-ore mine in eastern Iran. Lung function (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, PEF) was measured using a calibrated Vitalograph COMPACT spirometer.