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Abstract
This study evaluated the genotoxic risk associated with chronic exposure to petrol fumes among petrol station attendants in Benin City using the micronucleus (MN) assay on exfoliated buccal epithelial cells. A cross-sectional design was employed, comparing 25 exposed attendants with 10 unexposed controls. Buccal cell samples were collected with sterile tongue depressors, fixed in Carnoy’s fixative, and stained with May–Grünwald and Giemsa. A total of 3,400 cells were microscopically examined and scored for nuclear abnormalities according to established cytogenetic criteria. Results showed highly significant increases (p < 0.001) in all nuclear anomalies among the exposed group. Mean frequencies of micronucleate (10.76 ± 3.36 vs. 1.3 ± 0.82 per 1000 cells), binucleated (6.28 ± 2.55 vs. 0.5 ± 0.70), karyorrhexis (7.52 ± 2.47 vs. 1.0 ± 1.15), and anucleate (7.60 ± 2.54 vs. 0.7 ± 0.82) cells were markedly elevated in the exposed group, representing 8.3-, 12.6-, 7.5-, and 10.9-fold increases respectively, with p-values ranging from 2.17E-07 to 7.43E-10. These findings provide compelling evidence of substantial cytogenetic damage indicative of chromosomal instability and cytotoxic effects resulting from petrol fume exposure. The study concludes that occupational exposure to petrol fumes poses a significant genotoxic hazard and recommends strict enforcement of safety protocols, use of personal protective equipment, regular biomonitoring, and improved environmental controls at petrol stations to reduce health risks and safeguard workers.
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