Journal of Environmental Biology

Impact of Pb and Cd exposure on oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in Baghdad fuel station workers: A case-control study

Z.J. Humadi¹, S. Kashanian^{1, 2}*, R. Rafipour³, A.Y. Majid⁴, S. Hashemi⁵ and S.Y. Abed⁶     

¹Faculty of Chemistry, Razi University, Kermanshah-67144 14971, Iran

²Nanobiotechnology Department, Faculty of Innovative Science and Technology, Razi University, Kermanshah-67144 14971, Iran

³Department of Chemistry, Kermanshah Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah-67189 97551, Iran

⁴Laboratory Section Department, Poisoning Control Center, Medical City, Baghdad-10049, Iraq

⁵Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Science and Engineering, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj- 31587 77871, Iran

⁶Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-University of Technology, Baghdad-19006, Iraq

Received: 09 October 2024                   Revised: 13 December 2024                   Accepted: 26 December 2024

*Corresponding Author Email : kashanians@gmail.com                  *ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8836-3647

Abstract

Aim: This study assessed early alterations in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in fuel station workers in Baghdad who were exposed to toxic heavy metals, specifically lead and cadmium.

Methodology: A case-control design was employed, involving 200 male participants: 100 fuel station workers (exposed group) and 100 non-exposed individuals (control group). Blood and urine samples were collected and analyzed to quantify levels of toxic metals, oxidative stress biomarkers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and antioxidant elements.

Results: The exposed group showed significantly higher levels of lead and cadmium in their blood and urine compared to the control group (P < 0.0001). Additionally, oxidative stress biomarkers and pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly elevated, while antioxidant elements were significantly lower in the exposed group (P < 0.0001).

Interpretation: These findings demonstrate that occupational exposure to lead and cadmium increases oxidative stress and triggers inflammatory responses among fuel station workers. Further research is needed to develop effective protective measures and explore the long-term health effects of such exposure.

Key words: Fuel station workers, Heavy metals, Inflammatory markers, Oxidative stress

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