Toxic and Oxidative Effects of Paint Chemicals on Paint Workers in a South-eastern State of Nigeria

Ogbodo SO*, Aniagolu MO and Nwobodo EI

Paint handling in developing countries is primarily artisanal, with minimal to no government oversight. Occupational exposure to paint chemicals has been linked to organ toxicities. However, its effects on these artisanal workers have not been fully elucidated. This study assessed changes in liver enzymes and lipid profiles in paint workers in Enugu metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional design, involving 60 paint workers aged between 20 and 60 years, and 60 age-matched, apparently healthy subjects who had never worked with paint (controls). Serum activities of some liver enzymes, ALT, AST, and ALP, and concentrations of lipid parameters, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, and triglycerides were determined. Results showed that paint workers had statistically significantly increased activities of ALT and AST (p = 0.000, each), and concentrations of LDL (p = 0.001), when compared with the controls. HDL was significantly reduced in paint workers (p = 0.000) when compared with the controls, while other parameters did not show any significant differences (p > 0.05, each). ALT, AST, total cholesterol, and LDL showed positive correlations with work duration (p = 0.000, each), while HDL had a negative correlation with work duration (p = 0.009). Other parameters did not show any significant change with work duration (p >0.05, each). These results indicate that paint workers in Enugu metropolis are at risk of toxic liver damage and lipid peroxidation, increasing the risk of cirrhosis and cardiovascular diseases. Mandatory use of personal protective equipment by workers, improved workplace ventilation, stricter regulatory oversight, and annual health evaluations are essential to mitigate these risks.

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Published on: Aug 29, 2025 Pages: 9-13

Full Text PDF Full Text HTML DOI: 10.17352/atte.000021
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