Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Gasoline Station Workers Chronically Exposed to Heavy Metals in Erbil City.

Abstract

Gasoline station workers are frequently exposed to heavy metals that can induce oxidative stress, contributing to various health complications. This study evaluated oxidative stress biomarkers in 75 gasoline station employees in Erbil City, Iraq, and compared them to 25 unexposed controls. Blood levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of lipid peroxidation, and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), a key antioxidant enzyme, were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Workers exhibited a significant increase in MDA levels, accompanied by a marked decrease in GPX1 activity (p < 0.001), indicating heightened oxidative stress resulting from chronic occupational exposure. The degree of oxidative imbalance correlated positively with years of exposure and advancing age. Furthermore, MDA concentrations were positively associated with the levels of most metals in hair and dust. At the same time, GPX1 activity was inversely correlated with them, suggesting that heavy metal accumulation plays a pivotal role in oxidative damage. These alterations in oxidative stress markers indicate an impaired antioxidant defense system and increased lipid peroxidation in workers, which may underlie subsequent cellular and tissue damage. The findings highlight the critical impact of prolonged heavy metal exposure on oxidative stress pathways in gasoline station workers. Monitoring oxidative stress biomarkers such as MDA and GPX1 can serve as an effective tool for early detection of occupational toxicity and help guide protective interventions. This study underscores the necessity for implementing rigorous occupational health measures and environmental controls to reduce oxidative stress-related health risks in exposed worker populations.