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Sleep apnoeas and neurobehavioral effects in solvent exposed workers
1Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Department of Occupational, Environmental and Insurance Medicine, Leuven 3000, Belgium. Lode.Godderis@med.kuleuven.be
International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health
|September 17, 2010
Summary
Chronic organic solvent exposure in printers may increase central sleep apnoeas and impair neurobehavioral performance, but does not primarily cause chronic toxic encephalopathy.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Neurotoxicology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Organic solvent exposure is linked to worker fatigue and cognitive issues.
- Sleep apnoeas may contribute to symptoms experienced by exposed workers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between chronic low-level organic solvent exposure and sleep disturbances, specifically central sleep apnoeas.
- To assess neurobehavioral performance in exposed workers.
Main Methods:
- Polysomnography and neurobehavioral tests were conducted on 21 printers exposed to organic solvents and 27 controls.
- Questionnaires assessed sleep-related complaints.
- A cumulative exposure index was calculated.
Main Results:
- Exposed workers reported more sleepiness and diminished sexual interest.
- Increased central apnoeas (67% vs 30%) and impaired hand-eye coordination were observed in exposed workers.
- Sleep complaints correlated with exposure duration and index.
Conclusions:
- Chronic organic solvent exposure may lead to mild sleep problems and central apnoeas.
- The study does not support sleep apnoea induction as the primary cause of chronic toxic encephalopathy.
- Central apnoea risk appears to accompany neurobehavioral impairment with increasing exposure.
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