Comparing the levels of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (Naphthalene) among different Iraqi automobile workers groups

Abstract

The workers in the field of car repairing are usually exposed to the exhaust emissions from cars containing polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which can cause an increase in the possibility of cancers to them. One of the most
representative of these PAHs is naphthalene according to the reports of many organizations (WHO, and EPA). Therefore,
the levels of naphthalene were measured in the blood serum of three groups of workers (auto repairmen, painters, spare
parts sellers) in addition to control group. The results indicate that the above-mentioned groups are exposed to high levels of
PAHs, where there was a high significant difference (P<0.05) in naphthalene levels among studies groups. Automobile
worker recorded High levels of naphthalene (2.46 ng/ml) flowed by painter group (1.52 ng/ml), and spare part seller group
recorded lowest levels (0.096 ng/ml).