A panel study for cardiopulmonary effects produced by occupational exposure to inhalable titanium dioxide.

Objectives: To investigate titanium dioxide (TiO2) exposure level in the finished product workshop, and its short-term cardiopulmonary effects, based on exposure assessment. Methods: Seven workers were recruited into the panel. Personal TiO2 exposure information, cardiopulmonary function, and the particle size distribution data were collected during working days. Linear mixed effect model was used to examine the association between TiO2 exposure and cardiopulmonary function changes. Results: The weight percentage of TiO2 particles more than 10 mu m, 1 to 10 mu m, and less than 1 mu m in the total dust was 14.5%, 69.5%, and 16%, respectively. Linear mixed effect model analysis showed that 1 mg/m(3) increase in daily personal TiO2 exposure was associated with the decline in maximum voluntary ventilation, peak expiratory flow, maximum mid-expiratory flow, and 75% of maximum expiratory flow. Conclusion: The study provided new evidence for health effects of occupational inhalable TiO2 exposure, which suggests setting up new occupational exposure standards for fine TiO2.