Ascorbic Acid Therapy in Lead Exposed Jewellery Workers of Bangladesh

Abstract

A total of 32 male jewellery workers who had been exposed to the fumes and dust of lead for the previous 10 to 25 years and 22 controls matched for age and economic status were compared with respect to lipid peroxidation, antioxidant levels and copper, zinc status in relation to lead toxicity. Effects of ascorbic acid on these parameters were also noted. Blood haemoglobin, serum copper, zinc and vitamin E, and red cell superoxide dismutase were found to be diminished, with no changes observed in red cell glutathione peroxidase and serum glutathione reductase. Lipid peroxidation product levels were very high. Ascorbic acid supplement, an antioxidant, could partially restore the serum copper and zinc levels and red cell superoxide dismutase, leading to a significant decrease in the mean blood lead concentra- tion of jewellery workers. Dietary supplementation with ascorbic acid can complement other efforts to prevent lead exposure and reduce lead toxicity.