Reproductive outcome, hormone levels and liver enzymes in agricultural female workers

Abstract

The study aimed to explore the effects of exposure to pesticides on the reproductive health and liver function of females participating in agricultural work. Blood samples were obtained from the thirty-five females (out of one hundred females of reproductive age) who were willing to donate blood. Fifty females matched for age and socio economic status were recruited as a control group to compare levels of hormones (estradiol, progesterone and follicle stimulating hormone), liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Results showed that 53% of the females examined in this village were illiterate. Agricultural work represented 42% of the occupations encountered by females in the study. Females who helped in farming operations showed a higher incidence of adverse pregnancy outcome such as abortions and stillbirths compared to those who did not share in agricultural work. There was a significant elevation in estradiol and progesterone levels among female agricultural workers and controls. There was also elevation in serum liver enzymes (AST and ALT) in agricultural workers compared to the controls. However, there was a significant decrease in FSH level in females sharing in agricultural activities compared to the controls. It could be concluded that participation of females in agricultural activities with potential exposure to pesticides endangers their reproductive health and liver functions. Rural areas in Egypt require more attention to increase the percentage of literacy among females and raise their health awareness.