Effects of supplementation rich in CYP2E1 and decarboxylase enzymes on leukocytes of smoking workers exposed to benzene at Osowilangon shoe industry home in Surabaya

Background: Exposure to benzene in the shoe industry is a risk factor for immune system disorders, especially in the leucocyte profile. Supplementation of enzymes such as CYP2E1 and decarboxylase could potentially protect against the toxic effects of benzene, especially in workers who smoke. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the effect of CYP2E1 and decarboxylase-rich enzyme supplementation on the leukocyte profile of smokers exposed to benzene in a home-based shoe industry in Surabaya. Methods: This study employs a quantitative approach with a pre-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design. The study was conducted in two locations of the home shoe industry in RW 1 and RW 2 Tambak Osowilangun Village, Surabaya. The sample consisted of 27 workers who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Results: The cross-tabulation results showed that most non-smoking workers experienced a decrease in leukocyte values after receiving enzyme supplementation, from 14 people (58.3%) to 5 people (20.8%), indicating an improvement in leukocyte values in 9 people. Overall, 11 workers (41%) had improved leucocyte values after the intervention. Conclusion: Supplementation of CYP2E1 and decarboxylase enzymes contributed to the improvement of the leukocyte profile in smokers exposed to benzene, suggesting the potential of this intervention in reducing the toxic effects of benzene in the work environment. Keywords: safety to work, benzene, leukocytes, home industry, shoemakers