Biomarker related lead exposure of industrial battery's workers

Abstract

Background: The risk of occupational lead exposure exists in lead smelting plants and battery industries, which may give rise to the issues related to lead poisoning among battery workers and low-exposed workers. Aims: To investigate the relationship between biochemical and hematological markers of lead effects and occupational exposure in battery workers and determine the role of work-related lead poisoning with emphasis on hemopetic system in exposed workers. Materials and Methods: Present study was carried out from July to October 2015, which collected demographic data, nonwork, and work-related symptoms from lead exposure nonexposed workers (N = 33) and battery wokers (N = 30), Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. Each blood sample was collected and analyzed for lead biomarkers, blood lead level (BLL)and δ-aminolevolinic dehydratase (ALAD) and hematological markers, such as complete blood count and recticulocyte count. Results and Discussion: Major non-work-related symptoms were droopiness and muscle pain among nonexposed groups. Major work-related symptoms in battery workers were occurred in lungs and nose. There was a significant increase in BLL, and a significant decrease activity of ALAD was observed in battery workers. Strong positive correlation between years of exposure and employment with BLL was observed and respiratorytract symptoms were also presented.Inverse correlation between the activity of ALAD and hemoglobin and a strong positive correlation between hemoglobin and BLL were found. Conclusion: The lead level and ALAD were good markers for screening lead exposures by significant related to hematological values, duration of work, and exposure and hypertension.