USask research highlights the impact of farm dust and herbicide exposure on lung health
A new study is shedding light on how common agricultural contaminants may affect lung health, particularly among women working in farming environments.
Farmers are exposed to a variety of airborne substances every day. These include dust particles, bacteria-related compounds called endotoxins, and chemicals used in crop production. While researchers have long known that some of these contaminants can cause lung irritation and respiratory issues, less information has been available about their effects on women according to research the from the University of Saskatchewan.
To better understand these risks, researchers examined the combined impact of endotoxins and glyphosate, one of the most widely used herbicides in agriculture. Using animal models, the team simulated exposure levels that could be encountered during a typical work week on the farm.
The results showed noticeable changes in the lungs after just five days of exposure. Researchers found fluid accumulation and thickening of the alveoli, the tiny air sacs responsible for oxygen exchange. These effects were more pronounced when the contaminants were combined than when only a single substance was present.
The study represents one of the early investigations focused on airborne agricultural exposure in females. Scientists say the findings provide valuable insight into how multiple contaminants can interact and potentially influence respiratory health.
Advanced imaging technology played an important role in research. The team used high-resolution imaging equipment at the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan. Technology allowed scientists to observe subtle changes inside the lungs that may not have been detected using traditional methods.
Researchers noted that the ability to capture detailed images helped identify physical changes associated with exposure. These findings offer a clearer picture of how agricultural environments may influence lung function over time.
The study was published in the journal Scientific Reports and contributes to a growing body of research focused on occupational health in agriculture. Scientists believe understanding exposure risks is becoming increasingly important as women continue to play larger roles in the agricultural workforce.
“Five days is a very short time but still we were able to pick up really fine nuances. The combination of endotoxins and glyphosate was making the lungs as thick, if not more,” said Gurpreet Aulakh, Fedoruk Chair in Imaging Science and associate professor in the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at USask.
According to recent census information, women account for a significant portion of Canadian farmers. As their participation in agriculture grows, researchers say more studies are needed to understand health risks and develop practical solutions for safer working conditions.
The research team emphasized that workplace safety remains one of the most effective ways to reduce exposure to harmful airborne materials. Simple protective measures can help lower respiratory risks during tasks that generate dust or involve chemical applications.
Experts recommend using appropriate personal protective equipment, including properly fitted N95 masks, when working in environments where airborne contaminants may be present. Such protective steps can reduce inhalation of potentially harmful particles and improve long-term health outcomes.
“The interpretation of the CLS results showcases the impacts of these exposures. To me, it is the unique imaging instrumentation and sophisticated interpretation. It allows us to move forward the understanding that there are these changes that we couldn’t see with the other measurements,” said Dean Chapman, expert in synchrotron imaging and professor in the USask College of Medicine.
The project was conducted as part of graduate research at the University of Saskatchewan and forms the foundation for future investigations. Upcoming studies will explore the long-term effects of exposure and compare how male and female lungs respond to agricultural contaminants over extended periods.
“In the USask Canadian Center for Rural and Agricultural Health, we're about protecting the people who live and work in rural areas, and this research addresses one of those common exposures,” said Director Shelley Kirychuk. “We always recommend personal protective equipment to protect yourself from respiratory exposures. So, wear a mask, an N95, during exposures.
Researchers hope their work will help improve awareness of respiratory health risks in agriculture and encourage the adoption of safety practices that protect workers across the farming industry.
Watch the video below.
Photo Credit: University of Saskatchewan from the YouTube video