Physiological Indicators of Cardiovascular and Respiratory Stress Associated With Airborne Heavy Metal Exposure in Gasoline Stations in Erbil City

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between occupational exposure to heavy metals and alterations in cardiovascular and respiratory parameters among gasoline station workers in Erbil City, Iraq. A total of 100 adult participants were included, comprising 75 gasoline station attendants and 25 non‐exposed individuals from a remote mountainous region. Cardiovascular indicators, including systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and body mass index (BMI), as well as respiratory parameters such as arterial blood oxygen saturation (ABO) and forced vital capacity (FVC), were measured using standardized protocols. Scalp hair and environmental dust samples were collected and analyzed for concentrations of Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Hg, Pb, and V using X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry. Results showed statistically significant increases in SBP, DBP, and BMI, and marked reductions in ABO and FVC among exposed workers compared to controls ( p < 0.001), with severity increasing with years of service and age. Pearson correlation analysis revealed strong positive correlations between hair and dust concentrations of specific heavy metals (Cr, Ni, Hg, Pb) and elevated SBP and DBP, as well as significant negative correlations with ABO and FVC ( p ≤ 0.05). These findings indicate that chronic occupational exposure to heavy metals contributes to cardiovascular strain, impaired pulmonary function, and potential metabolic disruption. The use of both biological (hair) and environmental (dust) markers strengthens the evidence of internal and external exposure. This study underscores the urgent need for improved occupational health monitoring and regulatory interventions to reduce pollutant exposure among petroleum workers.