Cadmium Exposure and Neutrophil Count as Indicators of Immunotoxicity Among Female Waste Workers

Authors

  • Eka Dahlia Gunawan Universitas Negeri Malang
  • Lestari Sudaryanti Universitas Airlangga
  • Won Kim Wonjin Institute for Occupational and Environmental Health

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58954/epj.v6i3.472

Keywords:

cadmium, neutrophils, immunotoxicity, female workers, waste sorters

Abstract

Cadmium exposure in female waste workers is an environmental health issue that has the potential to cause immune system disorders. This study aims to analyze the relationship between blood cadmium levels and neutrophil counts as an indicator of immunotoxicity. The study used a cross-sectional analytical observational design on female waste pickers working at waste collection sites (TPS) and final procesing sites (TPA). Cadmium levels were measured through blood samples, while neutrophil counts were obtained from routine hematology tests. Data analysis was performed using nonparametric correlation tests. The results showed a significant negative relationship between cadmium levels and neutrophil counts, indicating the potential for immunotoxic effects due to chronic cadmium exposure. It is recommended to conduct regular health monitoring, increase the use of personal protective equipment, and control cadmium exposure in the work environment.

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Published

2026-11-02

How to Cite

Gunawan, E. D., Lestari Sudaryanti, & Won Kim. (2026). Cadmium Exposure and Neutrophil Count as Indicators of Immunotoxicity Among Female Waste Workers . Environmental Pollution Journal, 6(3), 202–211. https://doi.org/10.58954/epj.v6i3.472

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