Abstract
ObjectiveAmbient exposure to fine particles is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Associations between occupational particulate matter (PM) exposure and cardiovascular disease have been studied less. The objective of this study was to examine associations between PM exposure and endothelial function among workers in Norwegian smelters.MethodsWe examined endothelial function with Endo-PAT equipment after a working day (WD) and on a day off (DO) in 59 furnace workers recruited from three metal smelters in Norway. The difference in baseline pulse amplitude (BPA) and reactive hyperemia index (RHI) between the 2 days was analysed in relation to individual exposure to PM < 250 nm (PM250) or the respirable aerosol fraction of particles, and adjusted for relevant covariates.ResultsThe exposure to PM250 ranged from 0.004 to 5.7 mg/m3. The mean BPA was significantly higher on WD relative to DO (772 vs. 535, p = 0.001). This difference was associated with PM concentrations among participants ≥ 34 years, but not among the younger workers. Reactive hyperemia was significantly lower on workdays relative to days off (1.70 vs. 1.84, p = 0.05). This difference was observed only among participants above the age 34. No associations with PM exposure were observed.ConclusionsPM exposure was associated with higher BPA among participants older than 34 years. BPA reflects microvessel pulsatility. Our results may indicate an age-dependent cardiovascular susceptibility to PM exposure. Endothelial function measured by RHI was reduced on WD among participants 34 years and older, but we found no associations between PM exposure and RHI.
Highlights
IntroductionDue to plentiful access to hydroelectric power, an old tradition for metal production
Norway has, due to plentiful access to hydroelectric power, an old tradition for metal production
The serum concentrations of nicotine and cotinine were higher among subjects in plant B, especially on working days, reflecting
Summary
Due to plentiful access to hydroelectric power, an old tradition for metal production. In some of these metalproducing plants, high concentrations of particulate matter (PM) may occur in the work environment, even though hygienic measures have been implemented to a great extent. Ambient air pollution is associated with increased incidence and mortality of cardiovascular diseases. Time-series studies estimate that a 10 μg/m3 increase in mean 24-h ambient PM < 2.5 μm (PM2.5) concentration increases the relative risk of cardiovascular mortality by 0.4–1.0% (Brook et al 2010). Given the much higher PM exposure in metal-producing facilities than in urban air, CVD would be expected to be prevalent in the metal smelters
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