The effect of PM _2.5 exposure on workers’ enzymatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) concentration at a ready-mix concrete factory in 2018

The lungs are exposed to PM _2.5 via inhalation; PM _2.5 then settles in the alveoli and circulates via the blood system, causing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cardiovascular issues. PM _2.5 triggers the formation of superoxide anions and provide signals for the formation of superoxide dismutase. Workers at ready-mix concrete factories had long-term exposure to high doses of PM _2.5 . This study investigates the effects of PM _2.5 on the blood SOD concentration of workers.This cross-sectional study involved 53 subjects chosen with random sampling and interviewed to obtain individual characteristic data. PM _2.5 value was measured by gravimetric analysis using High Volume Air Sampler and EPAM-5000. The SOD value was tested with the RanSOD-Kit and read using RX-Monza. Data were analyzed with chi-square and multiple logistic regression.It was determined that the workers exposed to PM2.5 ³65 mg/m3 had a 10x higher risk of obtaining a SOD concentration of <84.40 U/mL than the workers exposed to PM2.5 <65 mg/m3.There is a significant relationship between PM _2.5 exposure and SOD concentration. Working status and length of employment were identified as contributing variables (p-value 0.029; OR 10.165; CI 1.276–90.994). This study suggests that PM _2.5 exposure leads to a decrease in SOD concentration. It is necessary to take preventive measures for workers.