Introduction: Women are constantly exposed to fumes and gases produced by burning wood, however they are poorly studied. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of respiratory disorders among women most at risk.
Subjects and methods: We conducted a descriptive, transversal and prospective women engaged with the site of artisanal smoked fish Hwlacodji in Cotonou. The survey included a questionnaire exploring the medical history and pathological respiratory events occurred during the last 12 months. All had received spirometry testing.
Results: 84 women were included. The average age was 37 ± 12 years, with extremes of 18 and 70 years. More than half of respondents had a tenure of more than 20 years and 61/84 (73%) practiced this profession full time. 70 (83%) had at least one respiratory symptom. The reported symptoms were: rhinitis 77%, 70% cough, dyspnea 65% and 19% have gone out of business last year due to lung disease. Ventilatory abnormalities are found in 49% of respondents. Abnormalities relate to FEV / FVC <0.8: 3 (3.5%), PEF <0, 8: 10 (11.90%), FEV <0.8: 10 (11.90%).
Conclusion: The respiratory symptoms is quite expressive contrasts with spirometric results. Monitoring over a long period of mostly young women will help lead to meaningful conclusions.