Possible Nephropathic and Arthropathic Consequences of Chemical Toxicants in Automobile Mechanic Workers in Owerri, South Eastern Nigeria
Chisom H. Udeogu *
Department of Medical Pathology, Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital, Oraifite, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Chisom J. Udeogu
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Imo State University, P.M.B 2000, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
Akudo C. Ohale
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Chinonso J. Udeogu
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Imo State University, P.M.B 2000, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
Bede U. Okwara
Department of Medical Pathology, Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital, Oraifite, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Chibuzor D. Udezue
Department of Medical Pathology, Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital, Oraifite, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Elijah. O. Aliyu
Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P.M.B 5001, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the levels of uric acid, urea, creatinine, potassium and sodium in adult young male automobile mechanics in Owerri, Imo State Capital, and to correlate these parameters with duration of exposure.
Study Design: The present study was conducted at Owerri metropolis, South-Eastern Nigeria, and designed to assess the renal function of apparently healthy male automobile mechanics. A total of 80 adult male volunteers aged between 18–50 years were recruited for this study by convenient sampling technique, comprising of 40 individuals as test group, and 40 as control. The control population were age-matched volunteers (civil servants) who were not given to excessive smoking/alcohol use. All the automobile mechanics in this study sucked petrol directly with their mouth and frequently used petrol to wash their hands to remove oil residue when repairing vehicles.
Place and Duration of Study: This study took place in Owerri Metropolis of South Eastern Nigeria between 5th June to 2nd September 2025.
Methodology: This site-by-site cross-sectional study evaluated some renal function parameters of male automobile mechanic workers in Owerri, Nigeria. A total of 80 subjects were enlisted for this study using simple random sampling. They were divided into two equal groups: automobile mechanics (n= 40) and age-matched control groups (n= 40). The automobile mechanics aged between 18 and 50 years. The control group consists of 40 civil servants, between the ages of 18 and 50 years. Five milliliters of fasting venous blood sample was collected from each participant, and dispensed into a plain container for analysis of selected renal function parameters. Urea, creatinine, and uric acid were determined using enzymatic colorimetric methods while potassium and sodium were determined using the ion selective electrode method.
Results: The results showed significantly elevated (p<0.05) levels of urea (4.89±0.50 mmol/L), creatinine (100.05±6.76 µmol/L), uric acid (0.50±0.08 mmol/L) and significantly reduced levels of potassium (3.85±0.35 mmol/L) in automobile mechanics compared with controls urea (3.92±0.66 mmol/L), creatinine (94.67±3.82 µmol/L), uric acid (0.29±0.05 mmol/L), and potassium (4.19±0.27 mmol/L). Longer duration of exposure was associated with increased levels of urea, creatinine, uric acid, as well as reduced potassium levels.
Conclusion: These findings indicate a likelihood of arthropathic consequences and renal impairments among automobile mechanics.
Keywords: Nephrotoxic, arthropathic, automobile, mechanics, toxicants