Effects of Carbon Monoxide on Haematological and Haemostatic Parameters among the Exposed Workers at Generator Servicing Centres in Benin City

Abstract

Objectives: Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless and highly toxic gas produced from incomplete combustion of fuel. This gas has capacity to bind with haemoglobin to compete for oxygen uptake when inhaled, thereby altering the blood physiology. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of carbon monoxide on haematology and haemostasis parameters among the exposed workers at gasoline generators service centre in Benin City. Methodology: Eighty-eight participants (workers n = 44 and; controls n = 44) took part in this study. Carbon monoxide used for this study was sourced from the smoke being emitted by gasoline generators during repairs. The participants' haematological parameters were analysed using haematology autoanalyzer (Sysmex Poch 100i model, Germany), while PT and PTTK were assayed using standard methods. Results: The mean values of red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), platelets (PLT), haemoglobin concentration (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and red cell distribution width coefficient variation (RDW-CV