Oxidative DNA Damage Biomarkers in Workers Exposed to Pesticides on Farms in Oyo State

Agricultural pesticide exposure constitutes a significant occupational health hazard in Nigeria, with growing evidence linking chronic exposure to oxidative DNA damage and increased cancer risk. This study evaluates oxidative DNA damage biomarkers, specifically urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine and serum 8-hydroxyguanosine, in farm workers with regular pesticide exposure in Oyo State, South West Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed, comparing 100 farm workers with confirmed pesticide exposure of at least three years against 100 unexposed controls from non-agricultural communities. Pesticide type, duration of exposure, use of personal protective equipment, and farming practices were characterised by structured interview and observation. Antioxidant markers including glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidant capacity were measured in blood samples. Organophosphate metabolites in urine were quantified to objectively confirm exposure. Multivariate analysis assessed the contribution of exposure intensity, protective equipment use, and individual antioxidant capacity to oxidative DNA damage levels. Findings will provide empirical evidence for strengthening pesticide safety regulations and providing targeted health protection for farmers in South West Nigeria. Keywords: pesticide exposure, oxidative DNA damage, 8-OHdG, farm workers, Oyo State.