Lactate Dehydrogenase Level, Oxygen Saturation and Hematological Parameters among Workers Exposed to Dust of Construction Materials in Sana'a

Abstract

Respirable dust and crystalline silica remain an important risk factor for respiratory disease amongst construction workers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Serum Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level, oxygen saturation level (SpO₂) and hematological parameters of workers exposed to construction materials dust and to compare them with the healthy control group in Sana'a city. Blood samples were collected from 70 non-smoker adult male, 20-60 years old, divided into two groups; 35 construction workers and 35 unexposed individuals as control, during the period from May to December 2016, in Sana'a. The results showed that mean serum LDH level of the construction workers (432.25±139.25 IU) was significantly higher than the control group (265.66±98.26 IU) (P<0.0001). The SpO₂ percentage showed a significant decrease (P<0.0001) in values of 84.09±13.95 in construction workers as compared to control 96.09±7.15. The hematological parameters revealed a significant increase in red cell distribution width (RDW), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), eosinophils and neutrophils (P<0.05). However, a significant decrease in hemoglobin (Hb) content, WBCs count and basophils was found among construction workers when compared with control group (P<0.05). The elevations of serum LDH level and other parameters are highly indicative of pathological conditions among construction workers, suggesting the use of protective masks to prevent inhalation of respirable particulates.