Biochemical Changes in Plasma of some Roadside Block Moulders Exposed to Cement Dust in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Roadside block moulders are prone to different health hazards due to exposure to cement dust. The aim of this study was to determine the biochemical changes in plasma of some roadside block moulders who are occupationally exposed to cement dust. The study included thirty-five roadside block moulders with working experience of ≤ 5 years (experimental group one) and ≥ 10 years (experimental group two) respectively. Thirty- five non- block moulders were monitored as controls (control group). Five milliliters of blood specimen from each subject and control participant were collected into plain bottles. The blood specimens were allowed to clot and spun to obtain serum samples used for the quantitative measurement of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, urea, creatinine and C-reactive protein. The results showed no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) in the mean values
of all the measured biochemical parameters between subjects in the experimental group one volunteers (≤5years) and controls. The only exception however, was the serum C-reactive protein which showed a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) as compared with that of the control group. In conclusion, inhalation of cement dust via whole body exposure for ≥10 years may be injurious to health. It is therefore recommended that roadside block moulders should use protective nose mask while working and that their biochemical profile be monitored regularly.