Objectives To analyze the hepatic and renal function and peripheral oxidative stress of residents in a county in western China as a result of long-term exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺) in drinking water, and to provide a scientific basis for formulating prevention and treatment measures.

Methods Source water samples from five areas were collected for Cr⁶⁺ detection by random sampling. Urinary chromium level, hepatic and renal function and peripheral oxidative stress in exposure and control groups were detected.

Results The average concentration of Cr⁶⁺ in drinking water was 2.82~3.22 times higher than the national standard allowance in exposure areas. Urinary chromium level in exposure group was much higher than that in the control group (P=0.000). The values of serum ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and CRE (creatinine)and β₂-MG(β₂-microglobulin) in exposure group were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.01); the activity of GSH-Px in exposure group was significantly increased (P < 0.01). However, the activity of CAT (catalase) in exposure group was lower than the control group (P < 0.01). The values of MDA (malondialdehyde), GST(glutathione s-transferases) and SOD (superoxide dismutase)between two groups were not significantly different (P > 0.05).

Conclusions Long-term exposure to excessive Cr⁶⁺ (2.82 to 3.22 times higher than the standard) in drinking water might cause a mild damage of hepatic and renal function, but it would bring about lipid oxidative stress for residents.