Biochemical Effects of Occupational Pesticide Exposure on Liver-Related Biomarkers and Oxidative Stress

Abstract

 Workers in agriculture, pesticide applicators, and workers who mix, store, and dispose of pesticides are at a high risk for exposure to pesticides. The aim of this study was to assess the biochemical impact of occupational exposure to pesticides on liver related biomarkers and markers of oxidative stress. A comparative cross-sectional design was used in 120 participants in three groups: control group (n = 40), low-exposure group (n = 40), and high-exposure group (n = 40). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin and albumin levels were measured, along with malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). The findings revealed significant increases in ALT, AST, GGT, ALP, total Bilirubin and MDA among the exposed workers, especially among the ones with high exposures. However, albumin, GSH, SOD and CAT significantly decreased as the duration and intensity of exposure increased. These results suggests that exposure to occupational pesticides could cause hepatocyte damage, decrease hepatic detoxification, and trigger oxidative stress. Regular biomonitoring, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safer pesticide-handling practices, and worker education are recommended. Previous studies also report an increase in liver enzymes and changes in antioxidant status in pesticide exposed workers.