Health Status Evaluation of mine workers and nearby population around iron ore mines in tribal district of Jharkhand, India

Abstract

Sarang V Dhatrak, Subroto S Nandi, PrahaladKumar L Sishodiya, Umesh L Dhumne, Shilpa V Ingole, Shweta R Gupta

ABSTRACT Aim: India is one of the largest producers and exporter of iron; however limited information is available about prevalence of iron ore dust exposure related health problems. Reports from some agencies indicated high prevalence of health disorders among population residing in nearby area of tribal district of West Singhbhum in Jharkhand state. Hence this study was undertaken in the twin township of Meghatiburu and Kiriburu iron ore mining area of West Singbhum district to determine health status evaluation of workers and nearby population. Method: Cross Sectional Study involving 102 male mine workers, 138 general population and 126 school children from Meghatiburu & Kiriburu mining area of West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand was conducted. The medical examination included general physical examination, chest x-ray, spirometry, audiometry, vision screening and biochemical parameters for Hb (gm%), blood sugar, etc. Results: The findings of the mine worker group study showed that 3.4% had pneumoconiosis and suspected pneumoconiosis each. Audiometry results showed 23.8% workers having noise induced hearing loss. In general population group 24.2% were undernourished with 85% suffering from anemia of which more than 50% were suffering from moderate to severe anemia with female predominance. Among school children 55% were undernourished and 92.8% had anemia with more than 70% girls suffering from moderate to severe anemia. Conclusion: Undernutrition and anaemia are prevalent among population residing nearby iron ore mines in West Singbhum district of Jharkhand state.