Abstract
This work evaluated the impact of exposure to mercury on the health of workers comparing dentists and dental assistants exposed to mercury by handling amalgam in a public dental clinic with a reference group which, in private offices, did not make use of the metal in their professional routine. Data collection included mercury levels in urine and air samples determined by cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry, questionnaires and direct observation. The difference between urine and air samples in both groups was statistically significant while mercury levels in air and urine showed positive associations. Mercury concentration in urine correlated with gender, practice time, and age of workers. Half of those exposed had complaints compatible with mercury contamination. Among the exposed, the most common complaints were cognitive and neurocognitive symptoms. Correlations between symptoms and exposure time and also number of amalgam fillings placed per week were positive. Amalgam handling resulted in environmental and biological contamination by mercury.
Highlights
Mercury (Hg) is a cumulative toxic element and its elemental form is one of the most hazardous
The exposed professionals worked at the dental clinic (DC) in a public health center from the government of Rio de Janeiro City, Rio de Janeiro
One professional in the exposed group lived near factories with Hg in their manufacturing processes while the other from the controls used to handle amalgam in a course of oral health
Summary
Mercury (Hg) is a cumulative toxic element and its elemental form is one of the most hazardous. The inhalation of Hg vapor can cause chronic and progressive disorder in the metabolic and cellular functions of individuals exposed. Preclinical disorders in the kidney function and behavioral and cognitive changes associated with effects on the central nervous system are of great concern. The metallic vapor can produce harmful effects on the digestive, respiratory, immune and reproductive systems, as well as dermal changes. Even at low concentrations, it poses a serious risk for. Health Sciences humans and living beings (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry [ATSDR], 1999; 2011)
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