Cytogenetic biomonitoring in a Serbian population occupationally exposed to a complex mixture of pesticides

Abstract

The aim of this study was the analysis of chromosomal aberrations (CA) and premature centromeric division (PCD) in people exposed to pesticides at work. The research included 26 subjects occupationally exposed to pesticides, of average age 39.89 + 8.66, and 32 control subjects of average age 40.57 + 6.57. Mann-Whitney U tests showed statistically significant differences between the groups for mean values of all the examined variables. In addition, Spearman?s (non-parametric) correlation test detected a positive linear correlation between CA and PCD. The presence of mostly chromatid and isochromatid breaks in the examinees indicates continuous exposure to pesticides. The absence of complex chromosomal rearrangements points to adequate protection of the subjects at their work places.