Effect of Volatile Organic Compounds on the Neurobehavioral Functions of Painters in Chennai, Tamilnadu: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Paints are a major source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) among painters. Limited information is available on neurobehavioral effect of long-term exposure to VOCs among painters working in unorganised industrial sectors such as construction site. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate the neurobehavioral impact of long-term exposure to VOCs among construction painters. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among male painters in Chennai. VOC exposure index was calculated using questionnaire as well as personal exposure monitors. Neurobehavioral tests including hand dexterity, auditory (ART) and visual reaction time (VRT) were used to assess motor coordination, fine motor activity, focused attention, and psychomotor speed. Results: Prevalence of prolonged ART and VRT in painters was 69% and 73%, respectively and 65% exhibited reduced hand dexterity. Hand dexterity had mild negative correlation (r = -0.3, p = 0.01) with VOC exposure index and work experience (r = -0.3, p = 0.02), whereas VRT had mild positive correlation (r = 0.3, p = 0.01) with VOC exposure index. Independent t-test showed a significant decrease in motor coordination with higher VOC exposure index (≤ 18.5*103 ppm-hrs = 60.1 ±10.1, >18.5*103 ppm-hrs = 53.3 ±12.3, p=0.03) and increase in work experience (≤ 10 years = 58.8 ±11.6, >10years = 52.5 ±11.5, p=0.05). Conclusion: Neurobehavioral functions gradually decline with VOC exposure in painters working in unorganized sectors indicating a need to create awareness among the public and workers in unorganized sectors about the organic solvent-induced neurobehavioral changes.