Effects of Pre and Post Exposure Preventive Measures on Serum Cholinestrase Level in Organophosphorus Compounds Spray Workers

Abstract

In Pakistan organophosphorus compounds are basic necessity in current farming system. In addition to their benefits in yielding good crops, it causes health hazards to its users; particularly spray workers. Excessive use, inappropriate handling and unsatisfactory personal protective measures while spraying OPs put sprayers at increased risk for acute as well as chronic health hazards. This aspect of occupational exposure is less explored area in Pakistan. Almost all OPs share a general mechanism of action, by phosphorylation of cholinesterase enzyme and buildup acetylcholine neurotransmitter level at nerve terminals.
 Objective: The objective of present study was to measure levels of plasma cholinesterase in pesticide spray workers who take and who do not take pre and post exposure preventive measures. Material and Methods: Serum cholinesterase levels were measured in 123 rural male spray workers selected through purposive sampling method from Lahore district of Punjab. This was done using spectrophotometric analysis. Serum cholinesterase level was measured by means of kits. A planned questionnaire was arranged to get demographic and data about use of pre and post exposure preventive measures.
 Results: All spray workers were males with a mean age of 34±9 years, with a mean duration of work experience 10±7 years. The usage of pre and post spraying protective measures in sprayers was significantly correlated with somewhat high mean values of serum cholinesterase activity (6055 u/l) and with a minor risk of OPs related illness, as compared to those sprayers who did not use these devices (4217 u/l) .
 Conclusion: The above mentioned results propose that sprayers in regular contact with OPs must be screened by clinical symptoms along with serum cholinesterase enzyme levels. It can identify those spray workers who are at threat to develop chronic toxicity. Health education must be given about adopting pre and post exposure preventive measures.