EFFECT OF PETROLEUM PRODUCT INHALATION ON THE BEHAVIORAL INDICES OF MALE WISTAR RATS

Petroleum products are ubiquitous in modern society, and inhalation exposure represents a significant route of potential neurotoxicity. This study analyzed the effect of petroleum product inhalation on the behavioral indices of male Wistar albino rats. Forty-five rats aged 3 months and weighing 180–220 g were divided into five groups: Group A (Control), Group B (PMS exposure - 500 ml), Group C (Kerosene exposure - 500 ml), Group D (Diesel exposure - 500 ml), and Group E (Mixed petroleum products - 500 ml). The exposure lasted for 28 days. Anxiety and cognitive tests were performed. The results of the behavioral indices showed a slight cognitive decline in rats exposed to diesel after 14 days, and petroleum products caused anxiety-like behavior in rats. These results emphasize the harmful effects of inhaling petroleum products on critical organ systems, particularly the brain and lungs.