THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RESPIRATORY HEALTH AND SERUM LEVEL OF BRAIN-DERIVED NEUROTROPHIC FACTOR AMONG PESTICIDE WORKERS

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt.

Abstract

Introduction: Workers who handle organophosphorus (OP) pesticides have a serious risk of developing respiratory disorders. Neurotrophins, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), play a crucial role in obstructive airway diseases. Aim of Work: To investigate whether OP pesticide exposure affects the respiratory system through the evaluation of respiratory symptoms, ventilatory function tests, and blood concentrations of brain-derived neutrophilic factor (BDNF). Materials and Methods: Forty-five male workers exposed to OP pesticides from a pesticide facility were compared to 45 male administrative employees (control group). Both groups underwent comprehensive assessments, including history, clinical examination, spirometry, and serum BDNF measurements. Results: The exposed workers exhibited a higher incidence of respiratory symptoms and obstructive pattern impairment of ventilatory functions and an increase in serum BDNF levels compared to the non-exposed personnel. Moreover, a negative correlation was identified between obstructive ventilatory function parameters and serum BDNF levels in the exposed group, whereas a positive association was observed between age and smoking index and serum BDNF levels. Conclusion and Recommendations: Workers who are exposed to OP pesticides may have a higher risk of respiratory disorders and higher blood levels of BDNF. It is recommended that workers in agricultural and related industries should take appropriate measures to minimize exposure.

Keywords

Egyptian Journal of Occupational Medicine
Volume 49, Issue 1
January 2025
Pages 35-51

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