Hepatic damage in residents of a major coal mining region in Brazil

Coal mining and the subsequent burning of coal release waste products that can accumulate in the environment and pose a threat to human health. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate hepatic damage by bilirubin, ALP, ALT, and GGT among men from the largest coal mining region of Brazil. A cross-sectional study was conducted in seven municipalities in Brazil's largest coal mining region. Participants were male individuals (n = 320) residing in these municipalities, with varying degrees of exposure to coal mining activities. Socioeconomic, demographic, lifestyle, and health information were collected, along with blood samples for measuring liver function markers: bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyltransferase. Despite the population's average liver function markers falling within the reference range, approximately half of the participants exhibited signs of altered liver function. The municipality at the center of coal mining activities showed the highest levels of liver function markers (except for gamma-glutamyltransferase), with nearly half of its residents exhibiting evidence of liver damage. Socioeconomic status and mate consumption were found to be significantly inversely correlated with liver damage. Additionally, individuals who smoked had a significantly higher risk of developing liver problems. These findings underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to address the health impacts of environmental pollutants associated with coal mining. Preventive measures and regulatory policies are crucial to protect public health in regions affected by this industry.