This study evaluates oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxidation in workers who are exposed hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in electroplating factories. The study participants were 230 nonsmoking male workers from 16 electroplating companies in Taiwan. Workplace air samples, spot urine samples, hair samples, fingernail samples and questionnaires were used to quantify Cr(VI) exposure, oxidative DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, demographic data, and environmental pollutants. Linear mixed-effect regression models were employed to estimate the relationship between workers’ urinary 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and Cr levels in urine, hair and fingernail, and that between their malondialdehyde (MDA) and Cr levels in urine, hair and fingernail.

Both the geometric mean concentrations of ambient total Cr and Cr(VI) in the electroplating areas significantly exceeded those in the offices. The mean concentrations of Cr in urine, hair and fingernail, and urinary 8-OHdG, and MDA in the Cr(VI) exposed workers exceeded those in the control subjects. Work in electroplating areas, work hours per day and urinary Cr were significantly associated with both urinary 8-OHdG and MDA, after adjustments for covariates. Exposure to Cr(VI) could lead to an increased risk of oxidative DNA injury and lipid oxidative deterioration in electroplating workers.