Accumulation of lead, cadmium, nickel and copper in hair of people living near heavy traffic area

Abstract

Accumulation of Pb, Cd, Ni and Cu in the hair of 462 males living near heavy traffic area and less traffic area in various parts of Rajasthan (India) was studied. Out of 462, 231 lived near heavy traffic area and remaining lived near less traffic area. Head hair samples from nape were obtained from subject under study alongwith filling up of a questionnaire recommended by World Health Organisation. Hair samples were washed, digested to get a colourless and clear solution and then analysed by AAS for Pb, Cd, Ni and Cu concentration. Subjects were grouped into four age groups of 21 to 30 years, 31 to 40 years, 41 to 50 years, 51 to 60 years. While significant concentration of Pb was found in all age groups of people living near heavy traffic area as compared to people living near less traffic area, that of Ni was not significant. Difference in Cd and Cu concentration of hair of people living near heavy traffic area and less traffic area was not found significant in all age groups.