Assessment of Haematocrit and Haemoglobin Levels Among Commercial Motorcycle Riders in Ilorin, Kwara State, North Central Nigeria

This study assesses haematocrit and haemoglobin levels in commercial motorcycle (okada) riders in Ilorin, Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, and evaluates their association with carbon monoxide exposure and occupational health risks. Motorcycle riders are chronically exposed to vehicular exhaust emissions, including carbon monoxide, which binds haemoglobin and impairs oxygen transport. A cross-sectional study recruited 200 commercial motorcycle riders with at least two years of active riding and 100 non-exposed controls drawn from administrative workers in the same age range. Haemoglobin, haematocrit, and carboxyhaemoglobin saturation were measured. Exposure history, smoking status, and years of occupational involvement were documented by interview. Results indicated significantly lower haemoglobin and haematocrit values in motorcycle riders compared to controls, with 34 percent of riders having haemoglobin below 13 g/dL, meeting the definition of anaemia in adult males. Carboxyhaemoglobin levels were significantly elevated in riders. Duration of occupational exposure correlated negatively with haemoglobin concentration. Smokers among the riders showed the most severe haemoglobin depression. The study highlights the haematological health hazards of chronic vehicular exhaust exposure and recommends compulsory occupational health screening, use of protective masks, engine emission regulation enforcement, and periodic haematological assessment as components of an occupational health programme for commercial riders in Kwara State. Keywords: haematocrit, haemoglobin, motorcycle riders, carbon monoxide, occupational haematology.