Abstract
Background
The urine benzene metabolite trans,trans-muconic (t,t-MA) is considered a good bioindicator of exposure to benzene levels in the air above 0.50 ppm.
Objective
Determine urinary levels of trans, trans-muconic acid (t,t-MA) and investigate the relationship with potential sources of exposure to benzene and its association with hematological parameters.
Method
A sectional study was carried out with 150 residents of Açailândia, Maranhão, Brazil. A structured questionnaire was used for sociodemographic and occupational characterization, among others. Urine and blood samples were collected to determine t,t-MA levels and blood counts. Associations were explored using multiple linear and logistic regressions.
Results
The t,t-MA was detected in 27% of the participants, with an average concentration of 0.15 mg/g creatinine. The most frequent hematological changes were low rods (41%), eosinophilia (33%), and reduced hemoglobin levels (19%). No statistically significant correlation was found between t,t-MA and blood count parameters. The factors that significantly influenced the excretion of t, t-MA were skin color, regular practice of leisure activities with exposure to organic solvents, and consumption of soda and soft drinks in the last 24 hours.
Conclusion
The population does not appear to be exposed to high concentrations of benzene. However, the hematological profile revealed the presence of biochemical changes compatible with anemia and immunological impairment.
Keywords:
benzene; trans, trans-muconic acid; biomonitoring; hematological disorders