Possible health effects of liquefied petroleum gas on workers at filling and distribution stations of Gaza governorates

ABSTRACT

Liquefied petroleum gas [LPG] is widely used in the Gaza Strip for domestic purposes, in agriculture and industry and, illegally, in cars. This study aimed to identify possible health effects on workers exposed to LPG in Gaza governorates. Data were collected by a questionnaire interview, and haematological and biochemical analyses of venous blood samples were made from 30 workers at filling and distribution stations and 30 apparently healthy controls. Statistically significant differences were found in all self-reported healthrelated complaints among LPG workers versus controls. LPG workers had significantly higher values of red blood cell counts, haemoglobin, haematocrit mean corpuscular haemoglobin and platelet counts. They also had significantly higher values of kidney function tests [urea, creatinine and uric acid] and liver function enzyme activities [aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase]. LPG workers at Gaza Strip petroleum stations are at higher risk for health-related symptoms and clinical abnormalities