Assessment of HCT Levels in the Blood of Hospital Staff Wearing Masks

Abstract

Background: Masks serve as a protective measure to prevent the transmission of infections, particularly in the context of the Coronavirus outbreak . There are various types of masks, including medical masks utilized in public settings like hospitals and clinics, as well as regular masks intended for use at home or during instances of coughing. As for the medical mask, it is made from three main materials: a non-woven fabric made of fine fibers connected to each other, ear straps to secure the mask on the face, in addition to a nose wire that holds the mask on the nose and keeps it in place.  The aim of this study is to know the effect of wearing a mask on blood pressure, cell size, and the expected outcome in the future.Methods, The samples were divided into groups: the first group consisted of 80 samples from employees who do not wear a mask, and this group was considered the control group. It was divided into subgroups that included males and females. The second group consisted of another 80 samples from employees who wore the mask throughout their working hours, and it was also divided into two subgroups, including 40 males and 40 females. The third and final group included samples from employees who wore the mask moderately and not throughout the working hours. This group was also divided into two subgroups, 40 males and 40 females. Results: The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) increased(84.888, 97.777, 127.804, respectively). This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001),  the ratio of red blood cells to total blood volume (RBCV) was significantly higher in women who wore masks throughout their working hours compared to women who wore masks moderately and only in crowded places. This ratio was also high but within normal limits. (57.33, 44.01, 37.98, respectively ) and this variance was significant with a value of 0.001. The results were also similar in men and were also high (Hematocrit), respectively (62.01, 51.85, 42.01).This had a significant effect with (p < 0.001). Overall, women had a greater effect than men.The results were also similar for men and were also high (hct), respectively (62.01, 51.85, 42.01). This had a significant effect (p < 0.001), and overall, women had a greater effect than men. Conclusion:  Increased mean corpuscular volume of blood cells as well as blood viscosity.As well as high blood pressure and loss of energy.