Insulin Resistance Among Bisphenol a Exposed Workers in Fiberglass Pipes Industry

Abstract

Introduction: Despite that bisphenol A (BPA) was widely used in industry, it can exert a number of toxicological effects on tissues mainly the endocrine system through its estrogenic action. Aim of work: The aim of the study was to evaluate the possible effect of occupational exposure of BPA on insulin homeostasis and diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: A case control cross sectional study was performed in one of the international factories manufacturing fiberglass and PVC pipes located in 6th of October City. The study population was divided into 2 groups; an exposed group consisted of 40 workers occupationally-exposed to BPA and a control group of 45 workers from outpatient clinic in Kasr Al Aini hospital. The exposed group was subdivided into 2 subgroups according to insulin resistance index: 1) Bisphenol A exposed subgroup with insulin resistance index < 4 (n=31), 2) Bisphenol A exposed subgroup with insulin resistance index ≥ 4 (n=9). The whole studied population was subjected to a detailed questionnaire including personal and medical history. General and systemic examinations were performed in addition to measuring both height and weight to all subjects to calculate BMI. All participants were subjected to laboratory investigations in the form of serum insulin level, fasting blood sugar (FBS) and 2 hours post prandial blood sugar level (2hPPBS). Urine level of BPA was estimated as a biomarker for BPA exposure. Statistical analysis was done using (SPSS) Statistical Package for Special Sciences version 16. Results: This study showed an elevation in urinary BPA level among workers as well as an increased insulin level, fasting blood sugar and post prandial blood sugar levels. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance was higher among the exposed group with positive correlation with the urinary BPA level. Conclusion: occupational exposure to BPA increases the risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus.