Impact of environment and health risk factors of Indian silkworm rearers of Bombyx mori Linn.

Abstract

The objective of the study was to investigate the role and importance of sericulture in India, the environmental impact of sericulture rearing units, and to assess the health risk factors of the workers working in this industry. The study was conducted at different rearing units of sericulture station of India. A prepared questionnaire was circulated among the rearers and control subjects to assess the health risk factors of the workers. Temperature, humidity and photoperiod were measured with the help of thermometer, hygrometer and digital lux meter, respectively. The present investigation indicates that majority of the rearers were suffering from health problems like bacterial, viral, protozoan and fungal diseases like eye irritation, injuries, back pain, allergies, respiratory problems and headache. Certain measures have been suggested that may improve the economic conditions of the rearers which may ultimately reduce the health risk factors among them. Therefore, it is recommended that personal protective equipment's and appliances for rearing should be provided to the rearers to reduce the health risk factors.