Reshaping the fabric of health: a call for improving the respiratory health of textile workers in low- and middle-income countries

The textile industry is an important contributor to the economies of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) [1]. Over the past two decades, textile and garment production has markedly shifted towards LMICs with lower labour and production costs, more accessibility to raw materials, such as cotton, and fewer stringent regulatory measures than high-income countries (HICs) [2]. As a result, Asian nations such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Vietnam have emerged as major manufacturing hubs of the textile industry. This shift has led to Asia accounting for 55% of the world's textile and apparel exports while generating around 60 million job opportunities [3]. Textile workers in LMICs face health risks due to cotton dust and substandard working conditions. Simple and affordable interventions can improve their respiratory health, but systemic changes and collective action are essential for a healthier future. https://bit.ly/3GQ18kL