Assessment of Haematological Parameters among Petrol Pump Workers in Bhubaneswar

Abstract

Background and objectives: Petrochemical workers are exposed to many noxious substances present in their work places. The most dangerous effects are due to benzene which is mostly found in petrochemical vapors. It is a well known carcinogen with relative hematotoxicity. So in our study we have assessed the hematological parameters (i.e. absolute eosinophil count, hemoglobin concentration, platelet count) of petrol pump workers in and around Bhubaneswar. Methods: This study was conducted in the department of Physiology Hi-Tech medical college and hospital Bhubaneswar in 2016. Study group contains fifty petrol pump workers between age group of 20-50 years. Fifty healthy male nonsmokers housekeeping staff of Hi-Tech Medical College and Hospital matching socially and economically with study group were selected as controls. Absolute eosinophil count was done by using Pilots solution, Hemoglobin concentration estimation by Sahli’s method and direct platelet count was done using Rees Eker’s fluid. Result: When we compare AEC in subjects who are exposed to more than 10 years with that of controls, there is decrease in count which is statistically significant. In control group when duration of exposure is between 11-15 years mean Hb concentration is 13.88 with a SD of 0.457, when duration of exposure is >15 years mean ± SD of Hb concentration is 12.64 ± 0.58 and both of these findings are statistically significant. There was no significant difference in the platelet count of study and control group. Conclusion: In our study when the duration of exposure is more than 11 yrs the absolute eosinophil count was significantly decreased (p<0.005). When the duration of exposure is more than 15 years there occurs statistically decrease in hemoglobin count in study group. In conclusions those exposed to prolong benzene exposure may develop bone marrow depression as evidenced by decrease in hemoglobin concentration and absolute eosinophil counts. So the parameters like hemoglobin concentration, absolute eosinophil count may be useful in detection of early hematological changes among exposed workers.