2018-09-102018-09-102009http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-76749118533&partnerID=MN8TOARShttp://scholars.lib.ntu.edu.tw/handle/123456789/346628Purpose: To investigate the effects of 1,4-dichlorobenzene (1,4-DCB) on kidney, liver, and hematological functions of workers in insect repellent factories in Taiwan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed comparing 46 exposed workers and 29 non-exposed workers. Health information was collected using questionnaires and biochemical tests. The concentration of urinary 2,5-dichlorophenol (2,5-DCP), the major metabolite of 1,4-DCB, was analyzed by gas chromatography with electron-capture detection. Results: Urinary 2,5-DCP concentration, white blood cell (WBC) count, and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level were higher in exposed workers than in non-exposed ones (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the WBC count and ALT level were significantly correlated with the concentration of 2,5-DCP in urine (P < 0.05). The blood urea nitrogen was significantly higher in on-site exposed workers (P < 0.05). Urinary 2,5-DCP concentration was significantly lower in workers who wore personal protective equipment (PPE) during work than in those who did not (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The higher urinary 2,5-DCP concentration in exposed (105.38 μg/L) than non-exposed (1.08 μg/L) workers suggests that 1,4-DCB exposure may increase the 2,5-DCP concentration in urine. Moreover, exposure to 1,4-DCB may also increase WBC count and ALT activity, and PPE may protect workers from 1,4-DCB exposure. ? 2009 Springer-Verlag.1,4-Dichlorobenzene; Health effect; Occupational exposure; Urine analysis[SDGs]SDG32,5 dichlorophenol; 2,5-dichlorophenol; 4 dichlorobenzene; 4-dichlorobenzene; alanine aminotransferase; chlorobenzene; chlorophenol; insect repellent; 2,5 dichlorophenol; adult; article; blood; cross-sectional study; drug effect; female; human; kidney; leukocyte count; liver; male; metabolism; middle aged; occupational exposure; Taiwan; urea nitrogen blood level; urine; Adult; Alanine Transaminase; Blood Urea Nitrogen; Chlorobenzenes; Chlorophenols; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Insect Repellents; Kidney; Leukocyte Count; Liver; Male; Middle Aged; Occupational Exposure; Taiwan; Young Adult; Hexapodajournal article10.1007/s00420-009-0398-5