Respiratory Health Among Latino Thoroughbred Workers

background/objectives:  Evidence suggests working in horse barns is associated with adverse respiratory effects among Latino thoroughbred workers, yet no studies to date have measured pulmonary function. We examined the prevalence of self-reported respiratory symptoms, abnormal pulmonary function, and associated occupational factors among Latino thoroughbred farmworkers.

methods: Participants were recruited via a community-based, purposive sampling strategy and participated in an interview-administered survey and spirometer test. 80 surveys and spirometry tests were administered by two trained health promoters (Promotoras) in July-September 2014. Pulmonary function (abnormal/normal) was classified by a pulmonologist. Occupational factors—such as job type, hours of barn/dust exposure, and use of dust masks —were assessed for associations with respiratory outcomes.

results: Participants reported working in dusty barn conditions 22 hours/week,  infrequently using dust masks (94%), and 79% experienced upper/lower respiratory symptoms. The prevalence of abnormal pulmonary function was 27%. Grooms worked in dusty barn conditions 2X longer per week than non-grooms (40 versus 20 hours) and, in addition to general farm workers, had the highest prevalence of abnormal pulmonary function (50% and 41%, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression indicates working as a general farm worker (versus all other jobs) and a shorter duration of farm employment (≤5 versus >5 years) may increase the odds of abnormal pulmonary function.

conclusions: Latino thoroughbred workers may be at risk for developing adverse respiratory conditions due to chronic exposure to dusty barn environments and limited use of dust masks. Future research should further clarify occupational and social factors impacting the respiratory health of this worker group.