Byssinosis is an occupational disease of the lungs caused by an allergic reaction to the dust produced in the processing of cotton, flax, and hemp. It is characterised by chest tightness and breathlessness at work after the weekend break and may lead after several years of exposure to permanent respiratory impairment. The exact pathogenesis is unknown but endotoxins from bacterial contamination of the cotton are thought to be central in causing bronchial obstruction. The cotton textile industry is an importrant economic sector in Turkey, like other developing countries. Thus, there is an urgent need to take control and preventive measures in textile industry.[Journal of Turgut Ozal Medical Center 1998;5(l):82-86]
Key Words: Byssinosis, cotton dust, dust control
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