ERYTHTROCYTE SHAPE ABNORMALITIES IN SCHOOL-AGE-CHILDREN LIVING NEAR SMALL-SCALE GOLD MINING SEPANG SIMIN GUNUNG MAS

Abstrak

Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) poses a significant risk of environmental contamination and may affect children’s health through exposure to heavy metals such as mercury (Hg). Such exposure can potentially disrupt the hematopoietic system, particularly red blood cell (RBC) morphology. This study aimed to describe the RBC morphology among children living near ASGM areas in Sepang Simin, Gunung Mas District, Central Kalimantan. A cross-sectional design was conducted involving 43 elementary school children. Blood smears were examined using Giemsa staining, and data were analyzed descriptively. A total of 81.4% of children exhibited abnormal RBC morphology, most commonly microcytic–hypochromic cells (65.1%). Ovalocytes and elliptocytes were also predominant, particularly among boys and children with exposure durations longer than five years. Children residing near ASGM sites showed a high prevalence of RBC morphological abnormalities, predominantly microcytic–hypochromic changes. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and further evaluation of hematological profiles, especially among children living in mercury-affected areas.