Impact Of Anesthetic Gases On Blood Components In Mosul City

Abstract

Occupational exposure to anesthetic gases remains a significant yet often underestimated health hazard for hospital staff, particularly those working in operating rooms. Despite advances in ventilation systems and safety protocols, chronic exposure may still lead to subtle but clinically relevant alterations in various blood biomarkers. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of inhalational anesthetic gas exposure on selected blood biochemical parameters among healthcare personnel in Mosul hospitals. comparative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 80 healthcare workers from operating rooms in several Mosul hospitals. Participants were divided into two exposed groups (based on years of exposure and type of gas) and one control group comprising administrative staff with no exposure. Blood samples were collected to assess key biochemical markers, comparative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 80 healthcare workers from operating rooms in several Mosul hospitals. Participants were divided into two exposed groups (based on years of exposure and type of gas) and one control group comprising administrative staff with no exposure. Blood samples were collected to measure red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin concentration (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cell (WBC) count, and platelet count. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Duncan’s multiple range test to determine significant differences among groups. The results revealed significant increases in RBC count, Hb concentration, PCV, WBC count, and platelet count in the exposed groups compared to the control group (p < 0.05). These elevations may indicate a physiological compensatory response to chronic low-level exposure or reflect underlying inflammatory or stress-related mechanisms induced by anesthetic gases. The findings suggest that chronic occupational exposure to inhalational anesthetic gases may lead to notable increases in various hematological parameters among operating room personnel. Strengthening preventive measures, improving environmental monitoring, and conducting routine hematological assessments are recommended to protect healthcare workers. Further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the underlying mechanisms and long-term health implications.