Haematological Effects of Acetylene Fume Exposure among Welders: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Welders are chronically exposed to complex mixtures of metal fumes and combustion gases, including acetylene, which may affect haematological health. This study evaluated the impact of acetylene fume exposure on haematological parameters among welders compared to non-welders, and explored how age and duration of exposure influence these parameters. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 200 participants (100 welders and 100 non-welders). Standard haematological indices were measured and analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and Multiple regression was used to assess the effect of exposure duration on red blood cell (RBC) count, adjusting for age as a potential confounder. Results: Welders exhibited significantly lower platelet counts, mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) compared to controls (p < 0.05). RBC counts did not differ significantly between groups; however, within welders, haematological parameters, including haemoglobin, RBC count, and platelet count, varied significantly with age and exposure duration. The decrease in platelet counts may reflect oxidative stress-mediated impairment of megakaryopoiesis induced by chronic exposure to metal and gas fumes. Although regression analysis adjusting for age showed no statistically independent effect of exposure duration on RBC count, unadjusted analyses and correlations indicated that longer exposure durations were associated with lower RBC counts. Conclusion: While overall RBC counts did not differ significantly between welders and controls, prolonged exposure to acetylene fumes was significantly associated with reduced RBC counts among welders, indicating potential cumulative toxicity. Occupational health interventions, including routine haematological monitoring and enhanced protective measures, are recommended to safeguard the haematological health of welders.