Determinación del riesgo de enfermedad respiratoria en los trabajadores de la empresa Graiman. Cuenca. Septiembre 2025 - Febrero 2026

Abstract

Background: Occupational respiratory illnesses represent a public health problem in industrial sectors such as ceramics, where workers are constantly exposed to contaminants such as crystalline silica and fine particulate matter. This can progressively impair lung function, increasing the risk of developing respiratory diseases that affect work performance and quality of life. Currently in Ecuador, the ceramics industry has experienced remarkable growth; however, there is limited evidence regarding the respiratory health of workers in this sector. Therefore, the use of the standardized ATS-DLD-78-A questionnaire (Ferris 1978) is a practical and effective tool for detecting respiratory symptoms. Its application allows for the early identification of potential risks and facilitates the implementation of preventive strategies that promote safer work environments. Objective: To determine the risk of respiratory illness among plant workers at the Graiman company in Cuenca. September 2025 - February 2026. Methods: This was a descriptive study. The sample consisted of 87 workers from the milling and atomizing, sorting and packaging, pressing, and glazing areas of the Graiman company, who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the ATS-DLD-78-A Standardized Epidemiological Questionnaire for Respiratory Symptoms (FERRIS 1978). Tables were then created for statistical analysis and results. Results: Of the sample studied, 73.6% presented a low risk of developing respiratory disease. Furthermore, occupational factors such as dust exposure, work area, and years of employment predominated as the main determinants that should be considered in the study.