Occupational Exposure to Paving Asphalt Fumes, Impact on Liver and Kidney Function Test Parameters

Abstract

Background: Asphalt is a mixture of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons. It also contains different kinds of heavy metals. Hot mix asphalt emits hazardous volatile substances. Asphalt is used in many industries, causing serious adverse health effects for workers. Therefore, investigation of the health status of workers is of crucial importance. The present study aimed to assess the impact of asphalt vapor on hepatic and renal function tests parameters and the clinical parameters in road paving workers compared to healthy subjects. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 41 road asphalt paving workers and 120 healthy non-exposed subjects were selected. The serum enzymes of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, triglyceride, urea, and creatinine levels were assessed using diagnostic kits. A medical practitioner examined all subjects for any possible medical condition. Results: Liver and kidney function test parameters were significantly higher in road asphalt paving workers compared to their healthy counterparts (P<0.05 for all parameters). About 63% of workers exposed to asphalt fumes for more than 10 years showed cardiac, pulmonary, and metabolic complications. Conclusion: Significant elevations in liver and kidney function test parameters suggest that exposure to asphalt fumes is associated with hepatic and renal dysfunction in asphalt-exposed workers.