Household Chemicals and Their Impact on Indoor Air Quality and Oxidative Stress: Afield Study on Women in Kirkuk

Abstract

According to recent research, household chemicals-especially those that include volatile organic compounds (VOCs)- are a significant contributor to indoor air pollution. They can also cause oxidative imbalance and increased inflammation, especially in women who spend a lot of time inside. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the relationship between indoor air quality and household chemical use, as well as the effects of this relationship on oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in women living in Kirkuk City. Procedure: Two groups of 120 female housewives in Kirkuk were selected for a cross-sectional, comparative study: an experimental group (n =60) and a control group (n =60). In order to measure VOC co-concentrations, air samples were collected from the participants' homes and subjected to GC-MS analysis. In addition, blood samples were taken to examine markers of inflammatory and oxidative stress (MDA, GSH, catalase,  TAC, NO, IL-6, and TNF-α). Result: The outcomes revealed a noteworthy formaldehyde and benzene concentrations in the experimental group's residences rose along with pro-inflammatory cytokines and lipid peroxidation markers,  whereas antioxidant enzyme levels fell. Not every shift was drastic; several indications showed only slight variations. Conclusion: In addition to causing oxidative imbalance and elevated inflammation,  the widespread use of home chemicals deteriorates indoor air quality and calls for preventive and awareness-raising measures.