EFFECTS OF 10-PPM HYDROGEN-SULFIDE INHALATION ON PULMONARY-FUNCTION IN HEALTHY-MEN AND WOMEN

This study examined the acute effects of oral inhalation of 10-ppm hyd rogen sulfide (H2S) inhalation (a concentration equal to its occupatio nal exposure limit) on the pulmonary function in healthy men and women . Mine men and ten women consented to inhale medical air or 10 ppm H2S for 15 minutes each during cycle exercise at 50% of their maximal aer obic power. Routine pulmonary function tests were administered at rest and immediately after the two exposure conditions. The results indica ted no significant changes in any of the variables derived from the fl ow volume loop, maximum ventilation volume and diffusion capacity of t he lung for carbon monoxide in both genders. None of the subjects expe rienced any signs and symptoms as a result of H2S exposure. It was con cluded that oral inhalation of 10 ppm H2S at an elevated metabolic and ventilation rate does not significantly alter pulmonary function in h ealthy men and women.