LAUSR

This study detected a significant association between the elevated levels of occupational and oxidative stresses in brickfield workers. Also, the urinary levels of 8-OHdG and biopyrrins are considered reliable biomarkers for determining the level of occupational stress. Consequently, effective preventive strategies should be designed and implemented among brickfield workers. Objectives The aims of the study are to measure the prevalence and level of occupational stress (OS) and to explore its association with oxidative stress among some brickfield workers. Methods Eighty-six brickfield workers and 90 administrative controls were assessed using the Arabic validated version of the Occupational Stress Index. The urinary levels of oxidative biomarkers; 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine and biopyrrins were also measured. Results The prevalence of moderate and severe OS in addition to the urinary levels of both oxidative biomarkers was significantly higher among the brickfield workers compared with their controls. Both biomarkers levels were significantly and positively correlated with scores of Occupational Stress Index, duration of employment, and with each other. The receiver operating characteristic analysis showed significant specificity and sensitivity of both biomarkers for determining the level of OS. Conclusions A significant association between occupational and oxidative stresses was detected in brickfield workers.