Evaluation of hematological indices among insecticides factory workers

Abstract

Insecticides are commonly used pesticides in the world. Chronic exposure to insecticides has adverse effects on various human body organs. In this study, hematological findings were assessed in workers in an insecticide manufacturing plant. Hematological parameters and clinical symptoms were recorded in 99 workers exposed to insecticides and 107 workers not exposed to them in a cross-sectional study. Assessment of the hematological results showed a higher prevalence of thrombocytosis in the exposed group than the non-exposed group (P < 0.05). Mean white blood cell (WBC) and platelet counts, anisocytosis of red blood cells (RBCs), and neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio (NLR) were significantly higher in the exposed group compared to the non-exposed group (P < 0.05). Prevalence rates of headache, itchy skin, cough, and sleep disorders were higher in the exposed group than in the non-exposed group (P < 0.05). Chronic exposure to insecticides can alter hematological parameters in the normal range. Occupational exposure to insecticides may increase WBCs, platelet count, NLR, and red cell distribution width (RDW). It can also cause thrombocytosis. Complete blood count (CBC), as an inexpensive and accessible tool, can help monitor workers' health status exposed to insecticides properly.

Keywords: Chronic toxicity; Hematologic tests; Insecticides; Occupational exposure.