Some Haematological and Coagulation Parameters Changes among Car Painters in Sokoto Metropolis

Abstract

Background: The most severe health effects associated with activities in small-scale industries are often not immediately observable, but instead manifest after prolonged exposure, frequently later in the lives of affected individuals. This latency in the development of adverse outcomes complicates timely detection and intervention. One such activity is automobile painting, which is commonly undertaken in informal auto garages where occupational safety measures are often inadequate. Exposure to paint and its associated chemical constituents has been linked to a range of health conditions, among which respiratory and dermatological disorders are the most prevalent. Inhalation of paint vapours and contact with hazardous substances can lead to both acute and chronic health complications affecting the respiratory system and skin. In light of these concerns, the present study aimed to assess the effects of paint exposure on selected haematological and haemostatic parameters among car painters operating in small-scale auto garages in Sokoto metropolis. Materials and Methods: To carry out the study, questionnaires were administered to car painters in auto garages. They were interviewed to get details of disease symptoms and other issues to support the information captured by the questionnaires. A sample population of forty six car painters from auto garages and twenty four control subjects were selected in the study area. Venous blood sample was collected and used to determine Full Blood Count (FBC), Prothrombin Time (PT) and activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT). Data were analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Student T - test was used to compare Full Blood Count (FBC), aPTT and PT among car painters and control. Results: The results obtained showed that the mean values of WBC (6.774±3.391), LYM (2.741±1.115), MXD (0.778±0.553) and NEUT (3.513±3.052) compared to the control WBC (3.800±1.132), LYM (2.054±0.616), MXD (0.321±0.172), NEUT (1.508±0.898) were significantly higher than the control (p < 0.05). The result obtained showed that the mean value of aPTT (32.39±7.987) and PT (13.39±2.285) of car painters were higher compared to control (25.96±1.829, 12.25±1.391) (p< 0.05). The study also showed that years of exposure has prolongation effect on levels of aPTT (p=0.013). Conclusion: There is need for continuous advocacy on use of protective wears and reduction of exposure time to prevent effect of prolonged exposure on car painters.