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Health effects of toluene exposure
H I Mørck1, P Winkel, F Gyntelberg
1Department of Clinical Chemistry, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Danish Medical Bulletin
|April 1, 1988
Summary
Industrial toluene exposure in photographic printing employees was linked to increased systolic blood pressure and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Some effects, like elevated blood pressure and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), improved after reducing toluene exposure.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
- Environmental Medicine
Background:
- Industrial solvents, such as toluene, are prevalent in photographic printing.
- Understanding the health impacts of occupational chemical exposure is crucial for worker safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the health effects of industrial toluene exposure in male photographic printing employees.
- To identify specific biomarkers and health indicators correlated with toluene exposure levels.
Main Methods:
- Assessed acute and chronic toluene exposure using a scoring system in 262 male employees.
- Measured blood pressure, pulmonary function, and plasma concentrations of various biochemical markers.
- Included confounding factors like age, alcohol, and smoking in statistical analyses.
Main Results:
- Systolic blood pressure, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and self-reported symptoms (dizziness, reduced concentration) correlated significantly with toluene exposure scores.
- Following a six-week period of reduced exposure, systolic blood pressure and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) levels decreased.
- Decreased ALAT levels were also found to be correlated with the exposure score.
Conclusions:
- Occupational toluene exposure is associated with adverse health outcomes, including elevated blood pressure and neurological symptoms.
- Biochemical markers like FSH and ALAT may serve as indicators of toluene exposure.
- Reducing occupational exposure can lead to measurable improvements in certain health parameters.