Evaluation of genetic damage in pesticides applicators from the province of Córdoba, Argentina

Abstract

The impact evaluation of pesticide exposure is conducted using combined data from biomonitoring and environmental monitoring. Damage to the human genome is, probably, the leading cause of chronic-degenerative disorders, reproductive toxicology, and developmental problems. Although the general population is exposed to pesticides, workers in the agrochemical industry and farmers represent a high-risk group due to the occupational and environmental exposure. The aim of this study is to determine whether occupational exposure to agrochemicals in Córdoba (Argentina) constitute a factor of genotoxic damage. The study was conducted in 30 pesticide applicators from the province of Córdoba. Chromosomal aberrations (CAs), micronuclei (MN), and comet assays (CO) were performed. The current study shows that occupational exposure to pesticides increases values of CAs, MN, and DNA fragmentation biomarkers, all indicators of damage to the genetic material. Evidence suggests that chronic exposure to pesticides is a potential risk to workers health.