Acute noise exposure effect on certain hematological parameters in tailors: a pilot study

Noise exposure has long been used as a stressor to investigate its effect on biological and biochemical responses. Primary examination of hematological parameters reveals the physiological status of an individual. Aim: To evaluate the effect of acute noise stress on certain hematological parameters in tailors. Methods: Newly trained tailors were exposed to acute noise stress for 7hrs/day and their blood cell parameters were determined on 8th and 24th day using automated blood cell counter. Results: A significantly increased total leukocyte count (TLC) and platelet count were observed on 24th day (p<0.001) while red blood cell count (RBC) and hemoglobin concentration (Hb) did not show any significant increase. Blood indices like mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCH) remained within the physiological range, unaltered. Conclusion: Acute noise stress increases the peripheral TLC counts in tailors, may modulate their immune function and facilitates acclimatization to their new occupational environment