Estimation of some heavy metals and biochemical variables in blood and soil samples from Kirkuk city, Iraq

Abstract

This study is focused on  the determination of some heavy metals levels (Se, Pb and Cd) with the study of biochemical parameters in blood samples such as superoxide dismutases (SOD), catalases (CAT), glutathione peroxidases (GPX), glutathione reductases (GRX), vitamin C and vitamin. The samples have been collected from 50 individuals at four distinct fuel stations in Kirkuk city/Iraq. To obtain the practical data, atomic absorption spectrometer, UV spectrophotometer and high performance liquid chromatography have been used. The results indicated remarkable differences in the concentrations of selenium, lead, and cadmium in the analyzed samples from workers compared to the control group. Selenium levels were lower in fuel station workers, whereas lead and cadmium concentrations were higher in their blood. Additionally, the results of chemical variables showed a decline in antioxidant concentrations (SOD, GPx, Vit C, Vit E). In terms of oxidative stress (MDA), there was a significant increase in its concentration among fuel station workers. In addition, the concentration of toxic heavy metals (Pb, Cd) in the soil of fuel stations was measured. (50) soil samples were taken from the four studied fuel stations and estimated using the graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer. The lead and cadmium levels in the soil were within the permissible limits, indicating no adverse impact of these metals on the soil.