About the Study
This research explores the health impact of prolonged exposure to textile dyes on traditional dyers in Ntonso, Ghana. The study focuses on liver function, kidney function, and lipid profile, given the widespread use of synthetic dyes containing heavy metals in the local textile industry.
Why It Matters:
- Traditional textile dyeing is a cultural heritage, but workers lack protective measures.
- Synthetic dyes contain heavy metals that can cause oxidative stress and organ damage.
- Understanding these risks is crucial for occupational health and policy development.
Objectives
- Assess liver function of Ntonso traditional textile dyers.
- Assess kidney function of Ntonso traditional textile dyers.
- Evaluate lipid profile and cardiovascular risk among dyers.
Key Findings
- Liver Function: Significant decrease in albumin (p=0.001), globulin (p=0.005), and total protein (p=0.000) among dyers, indicating impaired protein synthesis.
- Kidney Function: Elevated creatinine (p=0.013) and chloride (p=0.025) suggest reduced kidney filtration efficiency.
- Lipid Profile: No significant differences between dyers and non-dyers, though dyers had slightly higher LDL and VLDL levels.
- Cardiovascular Risk: No major differences detected, but patterns suggest potential long-term risk.
Statistical Methodology
This study demonstrates advanced biostatistical techniques including:
- Study Design: Case-control study with 50 dyers and 50 non-dyers.
- Tools: SPSS v20 (Student’s t-test, Mann-Whitney, Pearson’s correlation).
- Analysis: Results expressed as mean ± SEM with significance threshold at p < 0.05.
Implications & Recommendations
Exposure to heavy metal-containing dyes may compromise liver and kidney health. There is an urgent need for hazard prevention measures and health monitoring in traditional dyeing communities.
Recommendations: Implement protective regulations for dyers and conduct further studies including antioxidant assays and histopathological insights provided by animal studies.