Evaluation of cholinesterase level in workers exposed to organophosphates

Organophosphates use in agriculture and concern about their effects on human is increasing. This study was conducted to investigate the activity of blood cholinesterase in sprayers. In a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study، 60 (30 sprayers and 30 control individuals) with age range of 29-62 years، mean age of 44. 33±8. 55 years were studied and the results were analyzed using SPSS version 11. The average and standard deviation of erythrocyte cholinesterase (AchE) and plasma cholinesterase (PchE) concentration was 5573. 2± 1229. 51 U/L and 144. 73±52. 3 IU/grHgb، respectively. Minimum and Maximum activity of erythrocyte cholinesterase was also 71. 07 and 291. 9 IU /gr، respectively. The average concentration of both erythrocyte cholinesterase (AchE) and plasma cholinesterase (PchE) in the case group was lower than the control group. A significant difference was observed between two groups (p<0. 05). In conclusion، high exposure to organophosphates was observed and it is needed to implement the occupational health program for prevention of health effects.