Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Industrial and Occupational Disease

Introduction: Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) is the generic term for a uniquely versatile family of composites used in everything from chemical plant to luxury powerboats. A variety of industries including electronics, automotive and transportation have contributed significantly to the increasing use of FRPs. Objective: is to investigate the ventilatory health effects of working with glass fiber reinforced plastic, For the sake of ameliorating overall health of this specific health group. Methods: The study involved 70 subjects recruited in two groups; an exposed group, formed of 40 subjects, and a Control Group, formed of 30 subjects. Exposed group subjects were selected from workers of a car manufacturing facility in Helwan city. All study subjects were interviewed, for personal, occupational, family and medical history taking. In addition, all study subjects were examined by Chest X-ray and Spirometer. Results: Our research demonstrated that spirometry results showed mainly restrictive pattern in exposed workers .Also chest x-ray results showed picture suggestive of interstitial lung diseases. Conclusion: Exposure to GFRP causes significant chest affections which were indicated mainly by history and radiology than clinical examination and spirometry

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