Analysis of cytogenetic disorders in residents of an industrial region in connection with work at coal-fired thermal power plants

BACKGROUND: In the air of an industrial environment associated with the processing and combustion of coal contains a huge amount of coal dust, heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which have a negative impact on genetic stability. In this regard, the purpose of the study is to study the genotoxic effects in workers of coal thermal power plants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The paper presents a cytogenetic analysis of genomic damage in 455 coal-fired thermal power plant workers compared with 533 control donors from Kemerovo using a micronucleus test. The formation of genomic abnormalities in coal-fired thermal power plant workers was assessed in relation to sex, age, smoking status, presence of chronic diseases, length of service, and working shops. RESULTS: A significant increase in the frequency of occurrence of lymphocytes with micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges, nuclear buds, as well as cells at the stage of apoptosis in workers of coal-fired thermal power plants compared to the control group was established. An increase in the frequency of occurrence of cells with cytogenetic disorders was revealed in women working in coal production and workers over 51 years of age. Work experience and professional specialization had a significant impact on the formation of genomic disorders. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results indicate a significant contribution of environmental factors to the development of geno- and cytotoxic effects in workers of coal-fired thermal power plants.