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Scholars Journal of Applied Medical Sciences | Volume-8 | Issue-03
Assessment of the Effect of Exposure to Plastics on Some Biochemical Parameters among Workers in Plastic Industries in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Idaye Reuben, Davis G.Tamuno-emine, Ebirien-Agana S. Bartimaeus
Published: March 21, 2020 | 99 72
DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2020.v08i03.034
Pages: 976-983
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Abstract
Plastics have a widespread use globally. The chemicals referred to as additives used in its manufacturing are capable of exerting a number of toxicological effects on biological tissues especially the endocrine system. This cross sectional study was aimed at assessing the effect of exposure to plastics on some biochemical parameters among workers in plastic industries in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The study population comprised of 80 subjects divided into two groups: the exposed group consisting of 40 workers, occupationally exposed to plastic additives and an age-matched control of 40 workers who were not occupationally exposed. Serum samples were obtained from the participants and laboratory investigations such as total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde, testosterone and estrogen levels were determined using standard procedures. Statistical analysis was done using Graph Pad Prism version 5.03 and variation in means was considered significant at p<0.05. The results show a significantly decreased values in triglycerides and malonaldehyde, and increased values in testosterone, estrogen, testosterone/estrogen ratio when compared with the control group at p<0.05.There was, however, no significant difference among the groups in total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, atherogenic indices, superoxide Dimutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione. In conclusion, the exposed subjects exhibited a change in lipid profile, atherogenic indices, oxidative stress markers and reproductive hormone levels which may predispose them to cardiovascular diseases.