RESUMEN
BACKGROUND/AIM: Studies have demonstrated the biological consequences of environmental contamination caused by human pesticide exposure following banana production. The aim of this study was to evaluate genomic instability and cytotoxicity in buccal mucosal cells of workers in banana farming. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this purpose, a total of 21 male workers in banana farming in the Ribeira Valley were included in the experimental group. A total of 20 individuals, not occupationally exposed to pesticides, were included in the control group. RESULTS: The frequency of micronuclei was significantly increased (p<0.05) in buccal mucosa cells from workers of banana farming when compared to the control group. Furthermore, a high frequency of karyolysis was detected in buccal mucosaI cells in these individuals. No significant differences were found in pyknosis or karryorhexis when compared to controls. CONCLUSION: Taken together, our results indicate that workers in banana farming represent a group in high risk for carcinogenesis since chromosomal damage and cellular death are increased in these individuals.
