This respirable dust sampler measures dust concentrations within the breathing zone of subjects in the study.

Approximately 450 individuals volunteered for the study m 1991. Researchers used three major indicators of respiratory health: a respiratory symptom questionnaire, a pulmonary function test, and a chest X-ray. Initial analyses, indicated that study participants had, on average, low levels of respiratory symptoms and good pulmonary function.

Final analyses are now being conducted to evaluate whether specific exposures associated with rice farming - such as field preparation, harvesting or stubble burning are linked with risk for respiratory symptoms or poor pulmonary function. In addition, chest X-rays were submitted to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and these results will also be incorporated into the final report.

 

Whether field preparation and other activities relayed to the cultivation of rice are linked to respiratory ailments is under study by medical doctors from UC Davis.