Noori A. Nasir, Shaker A. Khalid

Abstract

Exposure to the high levels of benzene and its metabolites are commonly reported to induce hematotoxicity. However, the effects of exposure to low levels are still obscure. In addition, these possible effects occurred in haemopoietic components could potentially lead to initiate harmful effects in different parts of the body later in the life course. This study was designed to assess the potential effects of benzene exposure on the hematological profile among workers at filling stations and compared them with office’s workers in Babil Province/Iraq. 24 blood samples (exposed group) and another 14 blood samples (non- exposed to benzene) were collected from public patrol stations. Full analysis of blood picture was performed using fully automated hematology analyzer. Results indicated that most of hematological biomarkers (14 out of 15 biomarkers) were not significantly changed in both groups. However, Hemoglobin (Hb) and Packed cell volume (PCV %) were significantly increased in smoker workers compared to non-smokers at patrol stations, while the total number of platelets PLT was significantly reduced. There are no significant associations between the duration of benzene, personal age and all measured hematological parameters. Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that benzene exposure has a potential to induce hematological among smoking people working at filling stations in Babil province/ Iraq. The hematological changes include increased Hb and PCV% and decreased the number of PLT. However, our results did not find any significant changes in most of hematological biomarkers in workers at filling stations compared to the control group in Babil Province.