Influence of seasonal shifts on lipid profile, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress in male farmers of Majha, Punjab

Background: Agricultural workers, particularly those involved in paddy cultivation, face significant health risks due to strenuous physical labor, prolonged exposure to environmental stressors, and seasonal variations. In regions like Majha, Punjab, the agricultural year is divided into two main cropping seasons, Kharif and Rabi, each characterized by distinct climatic conditions that contribute differently to the health burden of farmers. Despite growing attention to agricultural health risks, there is limited research on the specific seasonal and diurnal variations in biomarkers of health in paddy cultivators. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the seasonal and diurnal variations in lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress among male paddy cultivators in Majha, Punjab, during the Kharif and Rabi cropping seasons. The study examines the impact of seasonal shifts on metabolic health and the underlying biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. Methods: A cohort of 750 male paddy cultivators was selected based on their involvement in farming for at least 5 years. Participants were categorized by their work in the Kharif and Rabi seasons and measured across three time slots: morning, noon, and afternoon. Blood samples were collected to assess lipid profiles (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol [LDL-C], high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and triglycerides), inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein [CRP], interleukin-6 [IL-6], tumor necrosis factor-alpha), cardiac biomarkers (brain natriuretic peptide, troponin I, creatine kinase-MB), and oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde [MDA], superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase). Results: The study revealed significant seasonal and diurnal variations in biomarkers. During the Kharif season, lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress markers were significantly higher, especially in the afternoon. Notably, total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides peaked during the noon period. The study results also reveal that inflammatory markers, which include CRP and IL-6, were elevated during the afternoon hours, and MDA levels were also notably higher during the Kharif season. These were indications of increased oxidative stress. The Rabi season, on the other hand, showed lower levels of lipid markers and oxidative stress although some inflammatory markers remained elevated. Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate that Kharif season farming, which is characterized by intense heat and humidity, significantly contributes to oxidative stress, lipid imbalances, and inflammation in paddy cultivators. The Rabi season, on the other hand, while milder, still imposes metabolic challenges. This highlights the need for targeted health interventions, which include improved work–rest cycles during peak heat, hydration programs, and regular health monitoring. These would help to mitigate the health risks of agricultural labor throughout the year.