Hematotoxic Effect of Petroleum Fumes on Petrol Filling Attendants and Garage Attendants in South Haryana, India

Abstract

The present study was conducted to investigate the impact of occupational exposure of petroleum fumes on hematological profile of petrol filling and garage attendants presently working in our locality i.e. South Haryana, India. A total of 125 adult males (18-40 years) were divided in five groups i.e. control group having grocery shop attendants, petrol filling station attendants with occupational exposure upto and more than 8 years and garage attendants with occupational exposure upto and more than 8 years. Complete blood profile (CBC) was assessed to evaluate the impact of petroleum fumes on hematological profile. A significant fall in red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin and hematocrit count and significant abnormal rise in mid-sized (MID) cells was observed in all test groups having exposure to petroleum fumes in proportionate to their exposure period. In conclusion, occupational exposure to petroleum fumes may cause anemia and leukemia which worsen with prolonged exposure.