Comparative analysis of serum troponin i, CK-MB, Myoglobin, and NT-proBNP levels among technical and non-technical staff in a paint factory in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

Cardiovascular biomarkers (Troponin I, CK-MB, Myoglobin, and NT-proBNP) indicate myocardial injury and cardiac dysfunction. Occupational exposure to physical and chemical stressors in paint factories may elevate these biomarkers, increasing cardiovascular risk among workers. This study assessed the impact of occupational exposure by comparing serum biomarker levels between technical and non-technical staff in a paint factory. One hundred (100) subjects participated. Health indices were collected via a structured questionnaire, and blood samples were analyzed for Troponin I, CK-MB, Myoglobin, and NT-proBNP. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential tests (independent t-tests, Levene’s test, Pearson’s chi-square, and Pearson’s correlation) were performed, with significance set at p<0.05. Results showed significantly higher mean serum levels of Troponin I (0.669±0.604 ng/mL vs. 0.355±0.523 ng/mL, p=0.015), CK-MB (8.533±5.788 ng/mL vs. 4.458±0.393 ng/mL, p<0.001), Myoglobin (65.978±13.648 ng/mL vs. 51.064±5.916 ng/mL, p<0.001), and NT-proBNP (358.697±99.169 pg/mL vs. 233.903±56.459 pg/mL, p<0.001) in technical staff compared to non-technical staff. These elevations suggest an increased risk of myocardial stress and cardiac dysfunction due to prolonged occupational exposure to hazardous substances. This study highlights occupational health risks in paint factories, linking exposure to elevated cardiovascular biomarkers. Findings suggest the need for workplace safety measures, exposure mitigation, and routine biomonitoring. Regular health assessments, early detection programs, and targeted interventions are crucial for protecting workers' cardiovascular healt