Differences in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease prevalence between petrol station workers and non exposed subjects

Introduction: Recent studies indicate that occupational exposure to organic solvents may be an independent risk factor for the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver diseaseand non-alcoholic fatty pancreas disease in a group of petrol station workers.
Methods: The study included 90 male subjects, 64 petrol station workers and control group of 26 administrative workers (non-exposed group) of the similar age and a body mass index of. All subjects underwent abdominal ultrasonography scanning, biochemical testing of blood and BMI measurement.
Results: Hepatic steatosis was more prevalent and significantly different in petrol station workers compared to controlgroup, whilst pancreatic steatosis was more prevalent though no significant different. There is no statistically significant difference in performed liver function tests of petrol station workers and control group. The median values of glucose, AST, ALT and GGT were within the limits of reference values, whereas cholesterol and triglycerides levels were elevated in both groups.Blood count revealed significant difference in the number of RBCs and the level of hemoglobin, hematocrit and MCV of petrol station workers compared to control group with the above reference values of RBCs, hemoglobin and hematocrit level.
Conclusion: The results indicate that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can be developed as a work-related disease. Regular medical examinations of the liver function and promotion of a healthy lifestyle is recommended for the exposed workers in order to prevent possible permanent damages.