Assessment of carcinogenicity, using PAH-DNA adducts, in workers exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Introduction

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are environmental contaminants that have been of interest in cancer research for a considerable length of time. DNA adduct formation is considered a marker and indicator for exposure to PAH. The aim of this study was to determine PAH-DNA adduct levels in peripheral blood lymphocytes and urine obtained from workers exposed to PAH, and to evaluate tobacco use, GSTM1 and GSTT1 as possible contributory risk factors.

Material and methods

Our study included a random sample of 66 workers exposed to PAH and 49 non-exposed workers.

Results

PAH-DNA adduct levels of exposed workers were lower than that of the non-exposed group (p<0.05). However, current smoking, GSTM1-negatives, and current smoking with GSTM1-negatives were more frequent in the non-exposed group. In addition, non-exposed workers reported exposure to PAH in their current jobs, as compared with the exposed group (p<0.001). Linear regression analysis identified the levels of benzo-[b]-fluoranthene in the working area as the only significant DNA adduct-forming risk factor (p=0.025).

Conclusion

Further research, with an appropriately large sample size, is highly recommended in measuring PAH-DNA adduct levels and evaluating their relationship with the different types of PAH.