Evaluation of Lipid Profile and Atherogenic Indices of Automechanics Exposed to Petrol and Petroleum Products in Aba Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: This study evaluates the serum Lipid profiles and health risk indices (atherogenic) of auto mechanics exposed to petrol and petroleum products in Aba Metropolis as toxic chemicals in the environment are known to cause certain biological changes and alteration that could be harmful to the body. Study Design: This was a cross sectional study that lasted from April 2022 to June 2023. Methods: The study involved 220 participants (120 auto mechanics and 100 controls). Blood samples were collected to assess total cholesterol (TCH), High -density Lipoprotein (HDL), Low- density Lipoprotein (LDL) and Triglycerides (TG) using enzymatic and colorimetric methods while the atherogenic indices were calculated from standard formula. Results: A significant mean TCH (4.5 ± 0.11mmol/L) and LDL-C (2.3 ± 0.10mmol/L) among  auto mechanic compared to controls (TCH 4.1 ± 0.11mmol/L; LDL-C 2.3 ± 0.10mmol/L).The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) showed no significant difference between groups (AIP 0.041 ± 0.031 for mechanics while 0.043 ±0.039 for the controls, p= 0.4075) However, the castelli risk index -1 (CRI-1) was significantly higher in the mechanics (4.4677 ± 0.227) compared to controls (3.610 ± 0.200) with p=0.04.Correlation analysis revealed significant  association between TCH and TG(r=0.722;p<0.0001) and also between LDL-C and TCH (r=0.8117;p<0.0001) among auto mechanics. Conclusion: The findings suggest potential future cardiovascular risks among auto mechanics due to occupational exposure to petroleum products hence strict usage of safety measures be enhanced in the mechanic workshop.