Urban Air Pollution and Oxidative Stress Among Commercial Bus Drivers in Benin Metropolis

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@article{1722731,
      author = {Edward Bayo Adebowale (PhD)},
      title = {Urban Air Pollution and Oxidative Stress Among Commercial Bus Drivers in Benin Metropolis},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2024},
      volume = {8},
      number = {1},
      pages = {976-982},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1722731.pdf},
      abstract = {Background
Commercial bus drivers in urban Nigeria experience prolonged exposure to vehicular emissions and traffic-related air pollution, which can induce oxidative stress and elevate the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
Objective
To assess air pollution exposure levels and oxidative stress biomarkers among commercial bus drivers in Benin Metropolis, using office workers as a comparison group.
Methods
A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 male participant comprising 100 commercial bus drivers and 100 office workers in Benin City, Edo State, between March and May 2024. Ambient air quality (PM_{2.5}  and NO_2$) was measured across four major motor parks. Blood samples were analyzed for Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione (GSH), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Additionally, respiratory symptoms and blood pressure were evaluated.
Results
The mean $PM_{2.5}concentration at the motor parks was 78.4 ± 12.6 µg/m³, which is 3.1 times higher than the World Health Organization limit. Compared to the control group, bus drivers exhibited significantly higher levels of MDA (4.87 ± 1.11 vs. 3.02 ± 0.89 µmol/L) and CRP, alongside significantly lower levels of SOD and GSH (p < 0.001). Furthermore, 42% of drivers reported chronic cough, and 28% presented with pre-hypertension. Duration of driving (years) and daily hours spent on the road emerged as significant predictors of oxidative stress.
Conclusion
Commercial bus drivers in Benin Metropolis suffer from heightened oxidative stress driven by heavy urban air pollution. Targeted occupational health interventions and stricter air quality regulations are urgently required.},
      keywords = {Air Pollution; PM_{2.5}; Oxidative Stress; Commercial Drivers; Benin City; Occupational Health},
      month = {July},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV8I1-1722731}
  }