Age-dependent differences of neurobehavioural function among workers exposed to aluminium

Abstract

In order to clarify the neurobehavioural effects of aluminium and age-dependent differences among occupationally aluminium (Al) exposed workers, 103 Al-exposed and 64 non-exposed workers aged 25–60 years were selected to be involved in the study using the WHO recommended Neurobehavioral Core Test Battery (NCTB). The air concentration of aluminium at work sites and the level of urinary aluminium were measured. The results obtained from this study showed that the mean concentration of air aluminium was up to 5.31 mg m−3, and the level of urinary aluminium among Al-exposed workers appeared significantly higher than that of controls. The scores of digit span in the younger age group, digit symbol in the middle age, and pursuit aiming in the older age of Al-exposed workers were markedly lower than in the non-exposed workers at the corresponding age ranges. Obvious changes of mood were observed in elderly Al-exposed workers, but no significant differences between younger Al-exposed and non-exposed workers was found. The results indicate that occupational aluminium exposure might interfere with normal behavioural function. The effects seemed to be age-dependent. Younger workers showed memory disturbances and the elderly appeared to be affected for mood and motor activities. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.