HOME JOURNALS CONTACT

Research Journal of Environmental Toxicology

Year: 2018 | Volume: 12 | Issue: 2 | Page No.: 56-62
DOI: 10.3923/rjet.2018.56.62
Changes in the Haematological Profile and Frequency of Nuclear Abnormalities in Exfoliated Buccal Cells of Automobile Welders in Enugu, Nigeria
Okechukwu Steven Onwukwe , Nkiruka Chinonyelum Azubike, Theophilus Kachi Udeani , Anulika Obianuju Onyemelukwe, Chidera Florence Chukwuagu and Peter Uwadiegwu Achukwu

Abstract: Background and Objectives: Welders are often occupationally exposed to potentially harmful substances. This study assessed the haematological profile and the frequency buccal cell nuclear abnormalities of automobile welders who use calcium carbide as a source of fuel in Enugu, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 participants (30 automobile welders and 20 controls) were recruited for the study. Questionnaires were used to obtain participant’s bio data and exposure characteristics. Haematological parameters were measured and assessment of buccal cell nuclear abnormalities was done by cytological evaluation of participants’ the buccal cells. Results: The welders were observed to had significantly lower total red blood cells and haemoglobin concentration. They also had significantly higher micronuclei frequency compared to the control group. Further analysis showed that number of years spent in the occupation, alcohol consumption and ongoing medications significantly affected the frequency of micronuclei among the welders. Conclusion: Automobile welders may be exposed to toxic substances which may cause increased frequency of micronuclei and reduced red cell count and haemoglobin concentration.

Fulltext PDF Fulltext HTML

How to cite this article
Okechukwu Steven Onwukwe, Nkiruka Chinonyelum Azubike, Theophilus Kachi Udeani, Anulika Obianuju Onyemelukwe, Chidera Florence Chukwuagu and Peter Uwadiegwu Achukwu, 2018. Changes in the Haematological Profile and Frequency of Nuclear Abnormalities in Exfoliated Buccal Cells of Automobile Welders in Enugu, Nigeria. Research Journal of Environmental Toxicology, 12: 56-62.

Related Articles:
© Science Alert. All Rights Reserved