LUNG FUNCTION AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS IN EXPOSURE TO POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS

What is it about?

Dyslipidemia, hypertension, and lung function impairment leading to cardio-pulmonary disorders has been associated with chronic exposure to chemical toxicants including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in automobile workshop. The cardiovascular risk factors, indices of lung function and PAH exposure in relation to duration of years at occupation were assessed in automobile workers.

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Why is it important?

The findings of this study have shown that automobile workers have unfavorable lipid profiles characterized by elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The association of exposure to PAH with decreased peak expiratory flow rate coupled with positive atherogenic risk index observed in automobile workers suggests an increased risk of a future cardio-pulmonary events in the absence of any prophylactic measures. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles, face masks, coverall, hand gloves and safe hygienic practice in the automobile workshop may mitigate the development of adverse health conditions.