Assessment of Age-Related Variations in Markers of Oxidative Stress among Occupational Paint Workers in Rivers State, Nigeria
TL;DR
Findings suggest progressive oxidative imbalance with increasing Age and occupational exposure duration, and older workers should engage in antioxidant supplementation.
Abstract
Occupational exposure to paint-related volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has been associated with oxidative stress and an imbalance in antioxidants. This study evaluated age-related variations in oxidative stress biomarkers among paint workers in Rivers State, Nigeria. A total of 342 paint workers were assessed for sociodemographic characteristics and oxidative stress biomarkers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT). Data were analyzed using ANOVA, correlation, and multiple regression models. Results showed significant age-related differences in GPx and CAT activities, while SOD showed no significant variation. CAT demonstrated a significant negative correlation with Age (r = -0.211, p < 0.001). Multiple regression revealed Age as a significant predictor of CAT activity (β = -0.155, p = 0.043). Work experience significantly predicted reductions in SOD and GPx levels. These findings suggest progressive oxidative imbalance with increasing Age and occupational exposure duration. Older workers should engage in antioxidant supplementation.