Cukurova Medical Journal Effects of Combined Inhalation of Coal Dust and Cigarette Smoking on Haematobiochemical Parameters

Purpose: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of inhaled particulate matter coal dust and smoking on the haematobiochemical profile of worker in coal analysis laboratory. Material and Methods: Twenty nine workers, were randomly divided into three groups, one control group (n=5), one group who exposed to coal dust but non smoking (CDNS) (n=15), and one group exposed to coal dust and smoking (CDS) (n=9). The control group included subjects working in administrative division which none have been exposed to coal dust. Exposed group working on coal dust material analysis were divided as smokers and non smokers. The duration of their work period were less than 10 years. Results: Mean of eosinophil and monocytes counts were significantly lower in both of coal dust exposure compared to control group (p<0.05). Segmental neutrophil counts were significant higher in coal dust exposure group with or without smoking compared to control group (p<0.05). The level of erythocytre sedimentation rate (ESR) was significantly lower in CDNS group compared to control group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Combined inhalation of coal dust and cigarette smoking changes cellular immune system such a