Effect of occupational exposure to vat dyes on kidney functions of dye users in Abeokuta, Nigeria

Abstract

Textile dyeing involving the use of vat dyes characterized by the presence of a carbonyl functional group (C=O) with chromophores such as anthraquinoids and indigoids is a leading indigenous occupation inAbeokuta,Nigeria. Dyes and their intermediate compounds have been shown to have adverse effects on human health especially organ functions. Using convenience (haphazard) sampling technique, a cohort of dye workers (n= 117) with a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 60 years duration of exposure (mean =17.03 ± 1.19 years) were recruited for this study. Sixty traders, matched for age and sex and who had no previous exposure to vat dyes were selected as controls. Demographic, occupational and environmental characteristics of the subjects were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Kidney function tests: urea and creatinine were carried out in plasma obtained from all subjects using standard spectrophotometric techniques. Plasma electrolytes, sodium and potassium were determined by flame emission photometry while chloride and bicarbonate were determined by titrimetric method. Plasma urea and creatinine were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the exposed compared to control while plasma sodium, chloride and bicarbonate were significantly lower (p<0.05). These findings indicate impairment of the glomerular and tubular functions of the kidney. Thus the study provides a scientific basis for protective measures against occupational exposure and health education among users of vat dyes.