Pulmonary function and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in blood due to chromium exposure among tannery workers in Sukaregang, Garut

Background and Objective: Chromium (Cr) has been widely used in many industrial application. Chromium application in tannery industry has potential adverse effects to workers. This study was aimed to determine the effect of chromium exposure to health effects by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) content in blood and pulmonary dysfunction among tannery workers. Methodology: A total of 25 workers were included. Ambient air chromium was measured in 6 different locations. Blood and urine were collected to measure MDA content and total chromium. The MDA was determined by using spectrophotometric assay TBAR reaction method and chromium was determined by using graphic furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). Spirometry was used to evaluate pulmonary dysfunction. Results: Result revealed that urinary Cr in workers was 19.65 μg L^-1 (n = 25). Twenty five percent of workers urinary Cr was above Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) ACGIH (_≥25 μg L^-1). Malondialdehyde (MDA) was not significantly different among high exposed workers (Cr>BEI) and low exposed workers (Cr<BEI) (p = 0.716), (0.118 nmol mL^-1) and (0.124 nmol mL^-1), respectively. Conclusion: It had been concluded that workers had high urinary chromium. It showed high chromium exposure in occupational ambient air in tannery industry. Chronic exposure of chromium could increase oxidative stress status and adverse health effects.