The Effects of Volatile Organic Compounds Exposure on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Among Assistants in Hair Salons

Abstract

PP-29-003 Background/Aims: The association between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) exposure and cardiovascular health remains unclear. The objective of the study is to investigate whether or not exposure to VOCs was associated with inflammation and oxidative stress among assistants working in hair salons in Taipei, Taiwan. Methods: We recruited 62 young, healthy assistants working in hair salons in Taipei. We made 4 visits in which we took blood samples from each subject. Occupational exposures to VOCs and particulate matter less than 2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5) were measured at each participant's workplace. We used linear mixed-effects models to examine the association between blood markers and exposure to VOCs and PM2.5 averaged over 1-hour to 8-hour periods prior to taking the physiological measurements. Results: We found that occupational exposure to VOCs and PM2.5 was associated with increases in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine. The association between total VOC exposure and the health parameters we measured remained in our models after adjusting for exposure to PM2.5. The effect of VOC exposure on the health parameters measured in this study was greatest during the days on which the subjects were working. Conclusion: We concluded that occupational exposure to VOCs in hair salons can lead to increases in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine levels. Time spent away from workplace could modify the effects these exposures have on the health parameters described above in this panel of young, healthy assistants.