Effect of Chronic Gasoline Inhalation on The Haematological Parameters and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate among Petrol Pump Workers of Metropolitan City

Dr.Sheetal Markam; Dr.Seema Pawar; Dr.Zaki Shaikh

Volume : VIII, Issue : VII, July - 2019

Effect of Chronic Gasoline Inhalation on The Haematological Parameters and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate among Petrol Pump Workers of Metropolitan City

Dr. Sheetal Markam, Dr. Seema Pawar, Dr. Zaki Shaikh

Abstract :

Background: Explosive growth of the automotive industry concomitant with globalization, urbanization, and accelerated economic development has contributed to work–related ill–health and injuries due to exposure topetroleum fumes.Oxidative stress, chromosomal aberrations, DNA damage, disruption of cell cycle are some of its adverse effects resulting in considerable morbidity.In view of its health effects this study was undertaken to determine its impact on human physiological parameters in asymptomatic gas station workers. Method: A test group of 50 asymptomatic petrol pump workers and a control group of 50 male hospital staff workers not living in the vicinity of any petrol pump were investigated for haematological parameters and PEFR after fulfilling requisite inclusion and exclusion criteria and results studied.Results: Petrol pump workers had statistically significant lower mean haemoglobin content, red and white blood cell counts and PEFR as compared to control group. Conclusion: Thus, this study suggests that early screening, diagnosis, intervention and referral along with application of safety measures to reduce exposure to gasoline vapours is essential.