The Genetic and Physiological Alteration in Welders Exposed to Welding Fumes

Abstract

Background: Due to the variable effects of welding fumes, welders who are exposed to metal fumes during welding may acquire a number of dangers, some of which may result in genetic defects and illnesses.

Objective: Our research attempts to elucidate the consequences of metal vapours on the physiologic and genetic fronts.

Methods: Blood and hair sampling were conducted on 50 welder and 20 non-welders, from Anbar governorate, blood was collected from peripheral blood for physiological analysis, and hair was collected and preserved to measure heavy metals concentration.

Results: Genetic analysis showed a present SNP in the site rs1972619149, whereas all welders and non-welders appeared to have the mutant type allele (C) as dominant, while site rs201595223 didn’t show any SNP, and all welders and non-welders appeared to have the wild type allele (C) as dominant.

The WBC mean value of the welders categorised by working duration (7.326±0.636 - 8.42±1.694 109/L) and age ranging (7.645±0.959 - 8.08±1.399 109/L) were both substantially higher than that of the non-welder group (6.45±0.378 109/L). The PLT mean value of welders categorised by working period (221.714±25.241 - 263.5±17.512 109/L) and age ranges (217.529±15.947 - 245.846±17.915 109/L) was much lower than the non-welder group (250.5±14.07 109/L). The Mn mean value varied between 0.225±0.139 and 0.722±0.378 mg/Kg for welders categorised by age and between 0.205±0.098 and 0.644±0.408 mg/Kg for welders grouped by working period. The Cd mean value of welders categorised by working duration (1.618±0.684 - 4.466±2.513 mg/Kg) and age (1.618±0.421 - 2.344±0.834 mg/Kg) was substantially greater than that of the non-welder group (0.452±0.052). In comparison to the non-welder group (2.3±0.075 mg/Kg), the Mg mean value of welders categorised by age ranged (2.043±0.127 - 2.276±0.049 mg/Kg) and ranged (2.042±0.125 - 2.226±0.058 mg/Kg) in welders grouped by working duration.

Conclusions: According to our research, the XRCC1 gene is susceptible to a wide range of substances, particularly heavy metals, which may result in low- to moderate-level alterations that are deemed harmful. Furthermore, we propose that elevated WBC, reduced PLT count, and elevated Mg levels are caused by elevated levels of Mn and Cd. Additional research is required to determine the precise mechanism by which welding fumes affect human health.