Cytogenetic Study in Tannery Workers and the Synergistic Role of Smoking

Amal Saad1, Saida A. Hammad2, Nagat M. Amer1, Hend Rashad1, and Khaled S. Mohamed1

Departments of 1 Environmental & Occupational Medicine, and 2 Human Cytogenetic, National Research Center, Egypt

Corresponding author: Dr. Amal Saad
    Environmental and Occupational Medicine Department
    National Research Center
    El-Behos St. (Tahrir St.Prev.)
    12311, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
    E-mail: amel_h3@yahoo.com

CEJOEM 2008, Vol.14. No.3.: 239-247

Key words:
tannery workers, chromosomal aberrations, sister chromatid exchange, and smoking habits

Abbreviations:
CA
SCE		 = Chromosomal aberrations
= Sister chromatid exchange

Abstract:
This study aimed to estimate cytogenetic profile in adult male leather tannery workers and find out the role of smoking habits. In the present study chromosomal aberrations (CA) and sister chromatid exchange (SCE) frequencies in lymphocytes of tannery workers were evaluated by standard metaphase analysis method. 40 exposed workers were examined versus 59 controls. Results obtained showed that there was no significant difference as regards CA and SCE between exposed workers and controls. Chromosomal aberrations and SCE of smokers; whether exposed or controls, were significantly increased compared to non-smokers in the two groups.

Received: 5 January 2009
Accepted: 26 May 2009
| Back |