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Introduction: Lead, a heavy metal originating from the tin industry in Pemali District, has polluted the waters and biota. Lead contamination has been exposed to humans, which will have an impact on women's reproductive health. This research aims to analyse the relationship between the drinking water source and aquatic animal food intake and women's blood lead levels. Materials and methods: This research uses analytical methods with a cross-sectional approach from July to October 2022 and involves a sample total of 91 women aged 30-49 years in Pemali District. Respondents were selected through purposive sampling, with the inclusion criteria being living in the research location area for ≥20 years and being willing to be a respondent. Exclusion criteria were pregnant or breastfeeding respondents and active or passive smokers. The data were analyzed in SPSS version 25 using chi-square and logistic regression tests. Results: The drinking water source and aquatic animals that are most consumed are refilled drinking water depot (60.4%) and mackerel (47.3%). The bivariate test showed a significant association between protected dug wells (p=0.015), gourami (p=0.015), and cork fish (p=0.038) with the respondent's blood lead levels. Based on the multivariate test, variables influencing blood lead levels were protected dug well (OR=0.24) and gourami (OR=8.699). Conclusion: The blood Pb level measurement results showed that all respondents had blood Pb levels >10 µg/dl. Two variables significantly affect blood Pb levels: protected dug well with a negative direction (B=-1.426) and gourami with a positive direction (B=2.163). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. This study aimed to assess blood and hair lead levels (BLL and HLL) in children with chronic constipation and compare them to healthy children; and investigated lead exposure’s role in the etiology of constipation. It also explored the correlation between BLL and HLL. Study Design. The study included 84 constipated children aged 3-18 years as the case group and an equal number of constipation-free children as controls. Organic diseases were ruled out through history-taking, physical exams and laboratory tests. Blood and hair samples were collected and analyzed for lead levels using standardized methods. Results. The constipated children group had significantly higher BLL (3.66 µg/dL) compared to the control group (1.61 µg/dL) with no significant HLL difference. Additionally, 48.8% of constipated children exceeded the reference value of 3.5 μg/dL, in contrast to 4.8% of the control group. BLL was unaffected by gender and age, while HLL were higher in girls and low ages. No significant correlation existed between BLL and HLL. The age of the housing showed a positive correlation with higher BLL and HLL. Lead exposure sources like drinking water, home renovation history, parental smoking, or nearby industrial facilities showed no significant relationships with lead levels. Conclusions. Understanding the constipation-lead exposure link is crucial for prevention and intervention. HLL may vary with gender and age due to external lead particles, which is why BLL continues to be a more reliable measure. Healthcare providers should remember to investigate lead exposure risk factors in constipation patients and test BLL when necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead exposure is a well-known health concern, affecting children worldwide. We aim to assess children's blood lead levels (BLLs), and the association of risk factors with elevated BLL in children since the phase-out of leaded gasoline. We enrolled 8085 outpatient children to assess their blood lead levels, and the associations with social-demographic factors. Social-demographic information was obtained by using questionnaires. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were performed to explore the associations between social-demographic factors and elevated BLLs. The geometric mean BLL was 15.96 μg/L. The prevalence rates of elevated BLLs (≧ 100 μg/L and ≧ 50 μg/L) were 2.0 % and 10.9 %, respectively. BLLs in boys were higher than that in girls (P < 0.001). Girls had a lower risk of BLLs above 50 μg/L than boys (OR = 0.83, 95 % CI 0.71–0.96). Father's occupation as a skilled laborer or professional worker and living in the suburbs significantly contributed to the elevated BLLs (≧ 50 μg/L), with the ORs of 1.39 (1.06–1.81), 1.33 (1.01–1.75) and 1.24 (1.02–1.50), respectively. Our results suggested that children who lived in suburbs and whose fathers were skilled laborers and professional workers were more likely to have BLLs above 50 μg/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveTo study the effect of exposure to airborne particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) on blood lead levels in residents aged 3 to 79 years in Henan province, with the aim of providing valuable insights for the prevention and control of PM2.5 air pollution. MethodsUsing stratified random sampling and a questionnaire designed by the National Institute of Environmental Health of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, we conducted face-to-face interviews and blood lead detection among 1 152 urban and rural residents aged 3 to 79 years in 8 districts/counties under the environmental pollution monitoring program in Henan province from December 2017 to January 2019. The PM2.5 concentration of the participant′s residence was obtained by matching the latitude and longitude of the home address with the high-resolution, high-quality near-surface air pollutant dataset for China (China High Air Pollutants [CHAP] dataset). The PM2.5 exposure level of the surveyed counties/districts was divided into two levels: high and low. Multiple linear regression model was used to analyze the effect of air PM2.5 exposure on blood lead levels of the participants. ResultsThe median annual average concentration of PM2.5 at the registered home addresses of 1 114 participants was measured to be 64.56 μg/m3, while the median blood lead level was found to be 15.32 μg/L. The results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that the participants living in areas with high exposure to atmospheric PM2.5 had an increased risk of having a high blood lead level (excessive risk [ER] = 26.05%, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 18.66% – 33.89%) compared to those living in area with low exposure to atmospheric PM2.5 ; and the increased ER of high blood level fluctuated among the participants of different age groups, with the ERs% (95%CI) of 19.41 (4.61 – 36.31), 28.01 (14.01 – 43.73), 14.89 (1.26 – 30.37), 25.79 (4.17 – 51.90), 35.00 (17.26 – 55.41), and 33.35 (16.58 – 52.54) for the participants aged 3 – 5, 6 – 11, 12 – 18, 19 – 39, 40 – 59, and 60 – 79 years, respectively. ConclusionExposure to ambient PM2.5 has a positive effect on the blood lead levels in the residents aged 3 to 79 years in Henan province and the effect varies among the residents of different ages.

Lead industries are one of the major sources of environmental pollution and can affect human through different activities, including industrial processes, metal plating, mining, battery recycling, etc. Although different studies have documented the various sources of lead exposure, studies highlighting different types of industries as sources of environmental contamination are limited. Therefore, this narrative review aims to focus mainly on lead industries as significant sources of environmental and human contamination. Based on the keywords searched in bibliographic databases we found 44 relevant articles that provided information on lead present in soil, water, and blood or all components among participants living near high-risk areas. We presented three case scenarios to highlight how lead industries have affected the health of citizens in Vietnam, Uruguay, and Malaysia. Factories conducting mining, e-waste processing, used lead-acid battery recycling, electronic repair, and toxic waste sites were the primary industries for lead exposure. Our study has shown lead exposure due to industrial activities in Vietnam, Uruguay, Malaysia and calls for attention to the gaps in strategic and epidemiologic efforts to understand sources of environmental exposure to lead fully. Developing strategies and guidelines to regulate industrial activities, finding alternatives to reduce lead toxicity and exposure, and empowering the public through various community awareness programs can play a crucial role in controlling exposure to lead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional study examines the population prevalence of blood lead levels (BLLs) greater than the sample median of 0.76 µg/dl in the U.S. population and investigates demographic factors associated with higher BLLs using data from the 2017-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Logistic regression models were used to assess the impact of poverty status on BLLs, with adjustments for factors such as race, age, gender, and lifetime smoking history. This study found that individuals living in or near poverty had significantly higher odds of having a BLL >0.76 µg/dl when compared with individuals not in poverty, with an adjusted OR of 1.824 (95% CI [1.324, 2.513]) and 1.744 (95% CI [1.388, 2.190]), respectively. This nationally representative study has important implications for understanding the demographic and socioeconomic factors that affect BLLs in the U.S. population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dental caries has declined over the years, but it remains a major public health issue. This review aimed to investigate the association between lead (Pb) and caries experience in either deciduous or permanent teeth. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar was conducted to identify relevant studies published up until December 2022. Included were human observational studies that investigated the association between Pb exposure and dental caries. The review adhered to the PRISMA guideline. Results: Sixteen studies were included in this review, with nine focusing on deciduous teeth, thirteen on permanent teeth, and six examining both types of teeth. Most of the studies (5 of 6) found a positive association between blood lead (PbB) levels and caries in deciduous teeth, while the findings for permanent teeth were less conclusive, with only 3 of 10 studies finding an association. One of the two studies assessing salivary lead levels found a weak association for permanent teeth. All four studies that measured Pb concentration from teeth found a positive association for both deciduous and permanent teeth. Conclusion: Many published studies have indicated a positive association between Pb exposure and caries experience in deciduous dentition. Children with elevated PbB level should be considered having higher caries experience. Due to lack of consensus on measurement and examination technique, there remains insufficient evidence to make any definitive conclusions, especially in permanent dentition, and so more studies are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opium abuse and exposure to heavy metals elevate the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). Therefore, we aimed to determine the association between opium abuse and blood lead levels (BLLs) and the CAD complexity. We evaluated patients with acute coronary symptoms who underwent coronary angiography, and those with >50% stenosis in at least one of the coronary arteries were included. Furthermore, Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery I (SYNTAX I) score and BLLs were measured. Based on the opium abuse, 95 patients were subdivided into opium (45) and control (50) groups. Differences in demographics and CAD risk factors were insignificant between the two groups. The median BLLs were remarkably higher in the opium group than in controls (36 (35.7) and 20.5 μg/dL (11.45), respectively, p = 0.003). We also revealed no significant differences in SYNTAX score between the two groups (15.0 (9.0) and 17.5 (14.0), respectively, p = 0.28). Additionally, we found no significant correlation between BLLs and the SYNTAX scores (p = 0.277 and r = -0.113). Opium abuse was associated with high BLLs. Neither opium abuse nor high BLLs were correlated with the complexity of CAD. Further studies are warranted to establish better the relationship between opium abuse, BLLs, and CAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: With the growth of the world's economy and industrialization, lead (Pb) contamination in the environment has become a major issue on a global scale. Lead is typically linked to unfavorable pregnancy outcomes such as stillbirth, low birth weight preterm, and spontaneous abortion. In this study, we evaluated the blood lead levels of pregnant women and their birth outcomes attending an Indian tertiary care teaching hospital, those who were not exposed to any lead-associated industry or shops. Methods: A descriptive study was undertaken to evaluate blood lead estimation in pregnant women and umbilical blood lead levels in a community hospital. Blood samples from 104 mothers during the 1st trimester, 90 mothers during 3rd trimester, and from the umbilical cord were collected. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect information on demographics, medical history, and concerns linked to pregnancy. Following acid digestion, the levels of lead in whole blood were determined by an atomic absorption spectrometer. The DNA damage in high blood lead-concentrated pregnant women was evaluated by comet assay methods. Results: Among 194 blood samples of pregnant women, 31 (15.98%) samples revealed ≥5 µg/dL blood lead levels. High lead concentration (≥5 μg/dL) in 1st trimester pregnant women, end of 3rd trimester and cord blood were detected 20.19%, 11.11% and 1.11% respectively. The mean blood lead levels in 1st trimester, 3rd trimester, and cord blood were 3.88 ± 3.19, 2.66 ± 1.82, and 1.53 ± 1.06 mg/dL, respectively. The blood lead concentrations were significantly higher in the 1st trimester of pregnancy than in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy (P < 0.0017). A positive correlation between maternal and infant blood lead levels was revealed (P < 0.0001). When the comet assay was used to assess the genotoxic consequences of elevated blood lead levels during pregnancy, higher amounts of DNA damage were found in the samples (P < 0.01). Conclusion: In this descriptive study, there was a significant amount of lead transferred from mother to baby through the placenta. All mothers were not exposed to lead-associated industry and most were housewives. This article may be viewed as an eye-opener for understanding the blood lead concentration during pregnancy to avoid abnormal birth outcomes. To minimize exposure to environmental lead, all possible measures should be undertaken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lead is a highly toxic metal. Multiple lead exposures produce serious poisoning and sometimes fatality because lead builds up slowly in the exposed body. Signs of repeated exposure to lead are high blood pressure, numbness or tingling of the extremities, memory loss, anemia, and kidney dysfunction. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who attended to medical city hospital. The study was conducted from January 2 to May 31, 2022. Inclusion criteria were by involved adults ≥30 years old with CKD of both genders. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured for all patients according to the Cockcroft-Gault equation. Whole blood samples were taken to measure lead levels in the Toxicology Center of Baghdad Medical City. The collection of data was done by interview using a special questionnaire. Verbal consent was taken as an ethical issue by each participant in the study. Results: A total of 315 CKD patients were involved. The mean blood lead level was 24.62 µg/dL, the range was between 15 µg/dL, and 33 µg/dL for both genders, which is higher than the cut point of 10 µg/dL depended in this study. About 38.4%, and 30.8% of patients had GFR (15--29 mL/ min/1.73 m2), and (<15) mL/min/1.73 m2 and they were considered as stage 4 and 5 CKD patients, respectively. Conclusions: Lead level in blood and GFR had a significant association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead (Pb) is a toxic heavy metal and its long-term accumulation in human bodies can lead to serious diseases. Investigation on Pb exposure provides an effective intervention opportunity to reduce the blood lead levels (BLLs) of the populations. Although the phase-out of the gasoline has been conducted in many developing countries (e.g., China), the BLLs of these populations are still higher than the alert BLL (5.0 μg/dL) set by World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of USA (CDC). Here, we reviewed the BLLs of the populations in different countries and summarized the sources and intake pathways of blood Pb which were associated with dietary Pb intake and non-dietary Pb intake. Extensive progress has been made in the studies of soil biogeochemistry and the plant biological processes, including the effects of soil pH, redox potential, Fe/Mn oxides, and organic matter on the availability of soil Pb, as well as the mechanisms regulating the Pb absorption by plant root and transport from root to shoot. The oral-nasal respiration and skin infiltration pathways have been specifically identified as the main causes of the increased BLLs of the populations exposed to different Pb sources. In the developing countries, complex dietary and non-dietary Pb intakes increase the BLLs, making intervention strategies to reduce BLLs difficult. This review provides a systematic understanding in the processes and mechanisms of Pb intake from environment to human blood and helps to guide safe strategies to reduce the BLLs and enhance human health.

Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations of lead poisoning include abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. Depending on the severity of a symptom, surgical consultation is required. The present study aimed to make a comparison between the mean blood lead levels of patients hospitalized for lead toxicity and the various Gl symptoms. A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed in 2020 at Khorshid Hospital, the main regional referral center for poisoned patients (Isfahan, Iran). A total of 82 patients aged ≥18 years who were hospitalized for lead poisoning during 2017-2018 were included in the study. Patients’ information was extracted from hospital medical records, including demographic information, clinical manifestations, blood lead levels, and treatment outcome. The mean age of the patients was 48.18±11.9 years, 91.5% were men, and 62.2% suffered from multiple GI symptoms, with abdominal pain being predominant (31.7%). Blood lead levels in patients with multiple GI symptoms were higher than those with only one symptom (P=0.01). Surgical consultation was required in 14.6% of the patients. Multiple GI symptoms were the main predictive factor for blood lead levels above 70 mg/dL (P=0.03, Odds ratio=3.06, 95% CI=1.09-8.61). Given the prevalence of abdominal pain and its association with elevated blood lead levels, differential diagnosis of abdominal pain should include lead toxicity.

Abstract Opium abuse and exposure to heavy metals elevate the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). Therefore, we aimed to determine the association between opium abuse and blood lead levels (BLLs) and the CAD complexity. We evaluated patients with acute coronary symptoms who underwent coronary angiography, and those with >50% stenosis in at least one of the coronary arteries were included. Furthermore, Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery I (SYNTAX I) score and BLLs were measured. Based on the opium abuse, 95 patients were subdivided into opium (45) and control (50) groups. Differences in demographics and CAD risk factors were insignificant between the two groups. The median BLLs were remarkably higher in the opium group than in controls (36 (35.7) and 20.5 μg/dL (11.45), respectively, p = 0.003). We also revealed no significant differences in SYNTAX score between the two groups (15.0 (9.0) and 17.5 (14.0), respectively, p = 0.28). Additionally, we found no significant correlation between BLLs and the SYNTAX scores (p = 0.277 and r = −0.113). Opium abuse was associated with high BLLs. Neither opium abuse nor high BLLs were correlated with the complexity of CAD. Further studies are warranted to establish better the relationship between opium abuse, BLLs, and CAD.

Background: Lead (Pb), a ubiquitous environmental toxin linked with various illnesses, including hypertension (HTN). Though preclinical models have proposed various mechanisms, few epidemiological studies explored the operative pathway(s) demonstrating HTN associated with chronic Pb exposure. The present study examined the association between occupational Pb exposure and hypertension, while also investigating the role of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in this association. Methods: Occupationally Pb-exposed individuals recruited in the study during their periodic medical examination. Demographic details were collected by pre-standardized semi-structured questionnaires. Blood-Pb levels (BLL) were determined using microwave-assisted acid digestion and ICP-MS. Blood pressure (BP) was measured using a pre-calibrated digital BP instrument. The role of the RAS was investigated among Pb-exposed workers (BLL ≥40 μg/dL) with (group-1 with BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg) and without (group-2 with BP

Background: Lead is toxic to children and effects the cognitive development. The primary objective was to assess the association of blood lead level (BLL) with cognitive performance and general intelligence, of urban school going children aged 6–16 years from ten cities of India. Secondary objective was to assess the association of anaemia with cognitive performance and general intelligence. Method: In this cross-sectional multicentric study, general intelligence was assessed by colored progressive matrices (CPM)/standard progressive matrices (SPM) test, visual-spatial ability through coding, attention and concentration ability through digit span and working memory through arithmetic tests. Blood samples of participants were collected to assess lead levels. Socioeconomic status and anthropometric measures were also collected. Results: From April 2019–February 2020, 2247 participants with equal gender distribution were enrolled from 60 schools. The median (IQR) BLL was 8.8 (4.8, 16.4) μg/dl. We found that BLL was significantly associated with attention and concentration ability and 1 μg/dl increase in BLL decreases the performance by odds of 1.02 (95 % CI 1.01–1.03). Anaemia is found to be associated with ‘borderline or dull normal’ performance for general intelligence [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.93 (95 % CI 1.53–2.45)], visual-spatial [AOR = 1.35 (95 % CI 1.03–1.76)], attention and concentration [AOR = 1.30 (95 % CI 1.02–1.66)], working memory [AOR = 1.69 (95 % CI 1.34–2.12)] abilities. Conclusion: Since increasing BLL decreases cognitive performance and anaemia decreased both cognitive performance and intelligence, attempts must be made to keep BLL as low as possible and prevent exposure in school going children.

Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations of lead poisoning include abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. Depending on the severity of a symptom, surgical consultation is required. The present study aimed to make a comparison between the mean blood lead levels of patients hospitalized for lead toxicity and the various Gl symptoms. A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed in 2020 at Khorshid Hospital, the main regional referral center for poisoned patients (Isfahan, Iran). A total of 82 patients aged ≥18 years who were hospitalized for lead poisoning during 2017-2018 were included in the study. Patients' information was extracted from hospital medical records, including demographic information, clinical manifestations, blood lead levels, and treatment outcome. The mean age of the patients was 48.18±11.9 years, 91.5% were men, and 62.2% suffered from multiple GI symptoms, with abdominal pain being predominant (31.7%). Blood lead levels in patients with multiple GI symptoms were higher than those with only one symptom (P=0.01). Surgical consultation was required in 14.6% of the patients. Multiple GI symptoms were the main predictive factor for blood lead levels above 70 mg/dL (P=0.03, Odds ratio=3.06, 95% CI=1.09-8.61). Given the prevalence of abdominal pain and its association with elevated blood lead levels, differential diagnosis of abdominal pain should include lead toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Lead toxicity has been a major public health problem worldwide, yet no study has investigated the association between lead exposure and chronic pain. Methods: We used data from three cycles of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) with chronic pain status. We conducted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to investigate the association between chronic pain and blood lead level (BLL). Subgroup analyses were performed to explore which confounding factor modified the association between chronic pain and BLL. Results: A total of 13,485 participants were included in our final analysis, out of which 1950 (14.46%) had chronic pain. In the fully adjusted model, a 1 μg/dL increase of BLL was associated with 3% higher risk of chronic pain. The highest BLL quartile (BLL > 2.40 μg/dL) was associated with a 32% increase in the risk of chronic pain compared with the lowest BLL quartile (BLL < 0.90 μg/dL). In the subgroup analyses, hypertension (P for interaction = 0.018) and arthritis (P for interaction = 0.004) status modified the association between BLL and chronic pain. Higher quartiles of BLL were associated with a higher risk of chronic pain only in individuals with hypertension or arthritis but not those without these conditions. Conclusion: A higher BLL was associated with a higher risk of chronic pain. Further research is warranted to investigate whether a causal relationship exists between the two, as well as potential underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Lead toxicity has been a major public health problem worldwide, yet no study has investigated the association between lead exposure and chronic pain. Methods We used data from three cycles of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) with chronic pain status. We conducted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to investigate the association between chronic pain and blood lead level (BLL). Subgroup analyses were performed to explore which confounding factor modified the association between chronic pain and BLL. Results A total of 13,485 participants were included in our final analysis, out of which 1950 (14.46%) had chronic pain. In the fully adjusted model, a 1 μg/dL increase of BLL was associated with 3% higher risk of chronic pain. The highest BLL quartile (BLL > 2.40 μg/dL) was associated with a 32% increase in the risk of chronic pain compared with the lowest BLL quartile (BLL

Abstract Background Lead is a major developmental neurotoxicant in children, and tobacco smoke has been suggested as a source of lead exposure in vulnerable populations. This study evaluates the contribution of secondhand tobacco smoke (SHS) to blood lead levels (BLLs) in children and adolescents. Methods We analyze data from 2,815 participants aged 6–19 years who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2015–2018) to investigate the association between serum cotinine levels and BLLs. A multivariate linear regression was conducted to estimate geometric means (GMs) and the ratios of GMs after adjusting for all covariates. Results The geometric means of BLLs in study participants aged 6 − 19 years were 0.46 µg/dl (95% CI 0.44, 0.49). After adjusting for relevant participant characteristics, the geometric means of BLLs were 18% (BLL 0.48 µg/dl, 95% CI 0.45, 0.51) and 29% (BLL 0.52 µg/dl, 95% CI 0.46, 0.59) higher in participants who had intermediate serum cotinine levels (0.03 − 3 ng/mL) and those who had high serum cotinine levels (> 3 ng/mL) respectively, compared to participants who had low serum cotinine levels (BLL 0.41 µg/dl, 95% CI 0.38, 0.43). Conclusions SHS exposure may be a source of BLLs in US children and adolescents. Efforts to reduce lead exposure in children and adolescents should include strategies to reduce SHS exposure.

Background: Lead is a major developmental neurotoxicant in children, and tobacco smoke has been suggested as a source of lead exposure in vulnerable populations. This study evaluates the contribution of secondhand tobacco smoke (SHS) to blood lead levels (BLLs) in children and adolescents. Methods: We analyze data from 2,815 participants aged 6–19 years who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2015–2018) to investigate the association between serum cotinine levels and BLLs. A multivariate linear regression was conducted to estimate geometric means (GMs) and the ratios of GMs after adjusting for all covariates. Results: The geometric means of BLLs in study participants aged 6 − 19 years were 0.46 µg/dl (95% CI 0.44, 0.49). After adjusting for relevant participant characteristics, the geometric means of BLLs were 18% (BLL 0.48 µg/dl, 95% CI 0.45, 0.51) and 29% (BLL 0.52 µg/dl, 95% CI 0.46, 0.59) higher in participants who had intermediate serum cotinine levels (0.03 − 3 ng/mL) and those who had high serum cotinine levels (> 3 ng/mL) respectively, compared to participants who had low serum cotinine levels (BLL 0.41 µg/dl, 95% CI 0.38, 0.43). Conclusions: SHS exposure may be a source of BLLs in US children and adolescents. Efforts to reduce lead exposure in children and adolescents should include strategies to reduce SHS exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Earlier studies have reported increased risks of lung, kidney and brain cancers for exposure to lead. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Working Group evaluated inorganic lead and its compounds probably carcinogenic to humans. This study aimed to assess the association between blood lead level in occupational exposure and risk of lung cancer. METHODS: The study was based on the follow-up of lung cancer incidence during 1973–2014 among 20 729 employees biologically monitored for their occupational lead exposure in 1973–1983. Duration of employment in the monitored work was assessed using records from the Finnish Centre for Pensions; and potential confounding by other occupational carcinogens using longitudinal information on the occupation in censuses and the Finnish National Job-Exposure Matrix (FINJEM). Occupation- and gender-specific prevalence of regular tobacco smoking and the socioeconomic status were also utilized in the adjustments for potential confounding. RESULTS: Positive trends were found for the elevated blood lead levels on the lung cancer risk. Among employees with the duration of employment of ≥60 months, the relative risk (RR) of lung cancer was 1.72 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28–2.31] for mean blood lead 1.0–1.9 µmol/L and RR 2.63 (95% CI 1.71–4.05) for mean blood lead ≥2.0 µmol/L, compared with mean lead

BackgroundLead is a toxic element of the environment that leads to major complications once it enters the blood stream, affecting multiple organs and systems of the body.MethodsWe present a case of a 6-month-old female infant diagnosed with lead poisoning after presenting for routine child health care. The child's mother denied that the infant had a history of exposure to lead-containing substances. After a month of calcium supplementation, the patient's blood lead level remained elevated. We then tested the blood lead level of the mother and father. The results showed that the blood lead level of the mother was 77.0 μg/L and that of the father was 36.9 μg/L. The high blood lead level of the mother attracted our attention. We found that the mother had been using an external traditional Chinese medicine, Hu Wang Fen, which contains lead. After the mother's discontinuation of use of the traditional medicine, the child was treated with symptomatic treatment and chelation therapy. Subsequently, the patient's blood lead level decreased significantly.ResultsLead toxicity can be a life-threatening problem because of its potential for severe complications. In children, there is no safe blood lead level, and the toxic effects of lead can be prevented by the awareness and avoidance of traditional Chinese medicines that may contain lead.ConclusionEven though the diagnosis of lead poisoning remains difficult in children, it must be taken into consideration by the clinician when treating a child using traditional Chinese medicines.

Background: Lead is a highly toxic metal and a very strong poison. Most of the time, lead poisoning builds up slowly. It follows repeated exposures to small quantities of lead. Signs of repeated lead include high blood pressure, numbness or tingling in the extremities, memory loss, anemia, and kidney dysfunction. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to measure the blood lead level (BLL) among sample of adult patients attending Baghdad Teaching Hospital aged =30 years old and to find if there is any association between BLL and renal impairment. Subjects and Methods: Across sectional study was conducted from January 2 to May 31, 2022. Sample involved selection of adults of both sexes who attend Baghdad Teaching Hospital outpatient clinic for nonrenal medical problems. Inclusion criteria include adults aged =30 years old, with no history of drugs that change creatinine level and not malnourished. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured for all participants according to the Cockcroft equation depending on serum creatinine, age, gender, weight, height, and body mass index. Blood sample was taken for measure lead level in toxicology center in Baghdad medical city using whole blood samples not <2.5 ml for each participant, and the collection of data was taken by interview using especial questionnaire. Verbal consent was taken as ethical issue from each participant in the study. Results: A total of 239 participants were involved in this study. The mean BLL was 23.57 µg/dl. BLL for all was ranged between the values 17 µg/dl and 33 µg/dl for both sexes. The study showed a significant association between BLL and GFR rate. Conclusions: BLL was higher than normal cut point used in the study which is 10 µg/dl. About one-third of participants had risk of kidney disease with GFR (60-90) ml/min/1.73 m2; they were considered asymptomatic renal impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resumen: Introducción: El objetivo del estudio fue determinar los niveles séricos y fecales de plomo en niños con distintos trastornos digestivos funcionales (TDF) en comparación con controles sanos. Pacientes y métodos: La muestra incluyó a 102 niños de 4-18 años con TDF definidos mediante los criterios de Roma IV y a 102 controles sanos emparejados por edad y sexo. Los niños con TDF se dividieron en 3 subgrupos: estreñimiento funcional (EF) (n = 36), dolor abdominal funcional (DAF) (n = 36) y náuseas funcionales (NF) (n = 30). Los niveles de plomo se midieron mediante espectrometría de absorción atómica. Resultados: El nivel de plomo en sangre (NPS) mediano fue significativamente mayor en niños con TDF en comparación con controles (5,12 vs. 1,77 μg/dl). Los NPS superaron los 5 μg/dl en el 51,9% del grupo TDF. Se observó una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en los NPS entre el subgrupo con EF y los otros 2 subgrupos (DAF y NF) (p = 0,003 y p

Background: The relationship between iron deficiency (ID) and children's neurocognitive functions has attracted the interest of the scientific community, particularly among those living at the lead-contaminated sites. Thus, the current paper aims at evaluating the association between ID and neurocognitive performance of school children living in a mining area (CMA) in comparison with a control group (CG). Methods: he study involves 90 school children aged from 6 to 10 years old. A survey was conducted to obtain information on the socio-economic and demographic status of the children. The students underwent cognitive test battery including the Bell Dam Test (BDT) and the Digit Span test (DST). Iron status (IS) was determined by serum iron, ferritin, transferrin, and blood count (CBC). Blood lead levels (BLLs) were measured by the Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (SAA-FG). Results: An ID was observed in 23.3 % of CMA, but it is not statistically different from the CG 21.7 % (p = 0.774). CMA group exhibited elevated BLLs (3.5 ± 1.21 µg/dL) when compared to the CG (2.31 ± 0.95 µg/dL), p = 0.006. Children's performance on the visual attention test (VA) was impaired in both groups. Working memory (WM) abilities were normal. In bivariate analysis, no difference was demonstrated in mean BLLs between the students who adopt the disorganized scanning strategy compared to the others whose method is organized for both CMA (t = − 0.508, p = 0.616) and CG (t = − 0.014, p = 0.989). Multivariate models did not reveal any association between IS and cognitive scores of children in the two groups (p > 005). Nevertheless, daily milk consumption was positively associated to VA skills among CMA. A negative influence of BLLs above the threshold value of 5 µg/dL was determined on children's WM skills. Conclusion: Our results suggest that low-level lead exposure did not influence children's visual attention scores but may adversely affect WM abilities if it reaches the threshold value of 5 µg/dL regardless of their IS.

Literature data regarding the response rate to COVID-19 vaccination in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients remain inconclusive. Furthermore, studies have reported a relationship between lead exposure and susceptibility to viral infections. This study examined immune responses to COVID-19 vaccines in patients with CKD and lead exposure. Between October and December 2021, 50 lead-exposed CKD patients received two doses of vaccination against COVID-19 at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Patients were stratified into two groups based on the median blood lead level (BLL): upper (≥1.30 μg/dL, n = 24) and lower (<1.30 μg/dL, n = 26) 50th percentile. The patients were aged 65.9 ± 11.8 years. CKD stages 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 accounted for 26.0%, 20.0%, 22.0%, 8.0% and 24.0% of the patients, respectively. Patients in the lower 50th percentile of BLL had a lower proportion of CKD stage 5 than patients in the upper 50th percentile BLL group (p = 0.047). The patients in the lower 50th percentile BLL group also received a higher proportion of messenger RNA vaccines and a lower proportion of adenovirus-vectored vaccines than the patients in the upper 50th percentile BLL group (p = 0.031). Notably, the neutralizing antibody titers were higher in the lower 50th percentile than in the upper 50th percentile BLL group. Furthermore, the circulating levels of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, interleukin-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α were higher in the upper 50th percentile than in the lower 50th percentile BLL group. Therefore, it was concluded that lead-exposed CKD patients are characterized by an impaired immune response to COVID-19 vaccination with diminished neutralizing antibodies and augmented inflammatory reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Earlier studies have reported increased risks of lung, kidney and brain cancers for exposure to lead. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Working Group evaluated inorganic lead and its compounds probably carcinogenic to humans. This study aimed to assess the association between blood lead level in occupational exposure and risk of lung cancer. Methods The study was based on the follow-up of lung cancer incidence during 1973–2014 among 20 729 employees biologically monitored for their occupational lead exposure in 1973–1983. Duration of employment in the monitored work was assessed using records from the Finnish Centre for Pensions; and potential confounding by other occupational carcinogens using longitudinal information on the occupation in censuses and the Finnish National Job-Exposure Matrix (FINJEM). Occupation- and gender-specific prevalence of regular tobacco smoking and the socioeconomic status were also utilized in the adjustments for potential confounding. Results Positive trends were found for the elevated blood lead levels on the lung cancer risk. Among employees with the duration of employment of ≥60 months, the relative risk (RR) of lung cancer was 1.72 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28–2.31] for mean blood lead 1.0–1.9 µmol/L and RR 2.63 (95% CI 1.71–4.05) for mean blood lead ≥2.0 µmol/L, compared with mean lead <0.5 µmol/L. The studied potential confounders did not explain the findings on the increased risk for lead exposure. Conclusions The current study lends support to the findings that exposure to lead increases lung cancer risk. Increased risks were seen already at rather low blood lead levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Lead is a known toxicant that affects all tissues in the body, most notably the brains of developing children. However, there are limited data on the dynamics of lead transfer via breastmilk and its short-term and long-term consequences. Much of the available data come from areas of the world where numerous sources of lead complicate our understanding of the effects of lead exposure via breast milk., Case Presentation: We present trends in blood lead levels in a breastfeeding dyad, where the only source of lead exposure identified was prior to pregnancy, without other known ongoing lead exposures for the lactating parent or infant., Discussion and Conclusions: In this case, all lead exposure in the infant was presumed to come from in utero transmission and breastfeeding; and infant blood lead levels varied significantly with initiation and interruption of breastfeeding. This case is discussed in the context of current models for predicting transfer of lead in breastmilk and highlights pathophysiologic considerations for understanding lead transfer in the breastfeeding dyad., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

IntroductionLead is one of the most health-hazardous causes of acute and chronic poisoning at workplaces. A limited study was conducted on the blood lead concentration among battery factory workers in low and middle-income countries. Therefore, this study will improve workplace health and safety conditions of workers in this sector and serve as baseline data for further studies in this segment of the working setup.ObjectiveThis review aims to identify the pooled mean blood lead level among battery factory workers in low and middle-income countries.MethodsThe search methods considered the following electronic bibliographic databases: google scholar, PubMed, and other gray literature. A funnel plot and Begg test were used to see the publication bias. The heterogeneity of studies was checked using I-square statistics with a cut of point 75% and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) quality assessment tool was applied to ensure the quality of the included articles. A random-effect model was applied to pool the blood lead level intoxication. The sub-group analysis and Meta-regression analysis were conducted by country and year of publication to control heterogeneity and to show variation. We included the articles published from 2000 to 2021 year in the English language.ResultsThrough the search strategies, 135 articles were identified and 43 full-text articles were selected for evaluation, and finally, eighteen (18) articles fit the inclusion criteria. From the 18 studies included in the meta-analysis, the mean pooled blood lead level of workers was 37.996 μg/dl (95% CI: 30.680–45.312) which is higher than the threshold limit value set by American conference of governmental industrial hygienists (20 μg/dl). In subgroup analysis by year in the random effect model, the pooled mean of blood lead level from 2006 to 2011= 43.20 μg/dL (35.91–50.50), 2012–2015 = 37.78 μg/dl (25.23–50.29), and 2016–2020 = 36.53 μg/dl (19.44–53.62).ConclusionsThis review showed that the pooled mean blood lead level of workers exposed to lead battery factories was (37.996 μg/dl) which is above the threshold limit value (20 μg/dl). Therefore, attention should be given by employers, government, and researchers to improve the health of working populations exposed to lead exposure in low and middle-income countries through the provision of occupational health and safety services like periodical medical checkups, treatments, and provision of training and adequate and appropriate personal protective equipment.Systematic review registration: Identifier: CRD42022322827.

Lead-contaminated water, soil, and air have been perceived as potential sources of lead exposure for a considerable length of time, which continues to threaten human health; particularly that of young children. An Integrated Exposure, Uptake, and Biokinetic (IEUBK) as a human health risk model were applied to predict the Blood lead levels (BLLs) in children. A variety of data for air, soil, and water were obtained from the industrial region in Al-Dorah city in Baghdad for the period 2012- 2014. The result found that the predicted BLLs value of 11.17 μg/dL obtained from the IEUBK model was exceeding the agency’s threshold of concern of 10 μg/jdL which was considered as the lowest level of concern for BLL in children, this result of the IEUBK model was in agreement with the actual value of BLLs which were taken from previous literature for 24 blood samples of school children matched for age curried out in the same Al-Dorah region. This technique propels logical comprehension of the connection between BLLs in children and environmental media in both air and soil for the pollute condition. It can control national health-based benchmarks for lead and related community public health decisions.

Background: Bone is thought to be the reservoir of the human lead burden, and vitamin D is associated with bone turnover. We aimed to explore whether exposure to lower 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) levels was associated with higher blood lead levels (BLLs) by increasing the bone turnover rate in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A total of 4103 type 2 diabetic men and postmenopausal women in Shanghai, China, were enrolled in 2018. Their 25(OH)D, β-C-terminal telopeptide (β-CTX), N-MID osteocalcin and procollagen type 1 N-peptide (P1NP) levels were detected. Their BLLs were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Mediation analyses were performed to identify the possible role that bone turnover played in the underlying mechanisms. Results: In both the men and postmenopausal women, all three bone turnover markers were inversely associated with 25(OH)D and positively associated with the BLL (all P < 0.01) after adjusting for age, current smoking habits, metabolic parameters, duration of diabetes, vitamin D intake, and use of anti-osteoporosis medication. In the mediation analyses, none of the direct associations between 25(OH)D and B LL was significant for the three bone turnover markers, but all three bone turnover markers were found to be significant mediators of the indirect associations between 25(OH )D and BLL. Conclusion: The association between vitamin D and BLL was fully mediated by bone turnover markers in type 2 diabetic patients (mediation effect). This finding suggested that vitamin D may protect against blood lead exposure from the bone reservoir by decreasing bone turnover in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Lead poisoning contributes to a significant burden of disease as a toxic substance found in air, soil, and water. In Indonesia, the risk of exposure is high due to the inappropriate recycling of used lead batteries. The objective was to investigate the factors that influence lead levels in children's blood. This cross-sectional study assessed blood lead levels (BLLs) in children aged 12–59 months in four communities exposed to used lead-acid batteries (ULABs) recycling activities, comparing them to a control area. The study employed a threshold level of 20 μg/dL to identify high BLLs and utilized a sample size of 324 children from exposed sites and 240 from control sites. Questionnaires, blood lead tests and a home-based assessment for environmental exposures were applied. The study participants comprised 295 boys and 269 girls, with an average age of 35 months. Significant disparities in soil lead concentrations median: Q1-Q3 were found between exposed (6581.7 : 2432.6–16647.1) ppm and control areas (253.5 : 158.8–417.1) ppm. Children in exposed areas had 3.9 times higher odds of BLL ≥20 μg/dL. Fathers with BLL ≥20 μg/dL had children with similarly elevated BLLs. Multivariate analysis identified socioeconomic status, study areas, environmental factors (cookware, food ware, spices, house cleaning), and children's behavior (breastfeeding duration) as determinants of elevated BLLs. Reported environmental factors had notable impact on BLLs, with aluminum cookware (aOR = 1.4, 95%CI [1.2–1.6]), food ware materials (aOR = 1.15, 95%CI [1.0–1.3]), type of spices (aOR = 2.7, 95%CI [1.7–48.0]), and house cleaning method (aOR = 2.9, 95%CI [1.2–7.1]). This study highlighted key risk factors affecting children's blood lead levels (BLL) and emphasized the urgency of employing effective strategies to remediate lead-contaminated soils in exposed regions. The findings underscore the need for prompt medical intervention and monitoring for children in these areas, with additional research essential to fully understand lead poisoning pathways in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Present study aimed to assess the alterations in neurotransmitter expression and its association with Blood Lead Level (BLL) and neurobehavioral pattern in children. 72 school going children were recruited. Blood lead levels were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Neurobehavioral state was assessed by means of population specific scale i.e. CPMS (Childhood Psychopathological measurement Schedule). Serum serotonin and dopamine were estimated by ELISA, receptor and transporter gene expressions were assessed by quantitative real time PCR. Significant positive correlation was observed between Total CPMS score (i.e. adverse neurobehaviour) and BLL. Further, serum serotonin levels and dopamine receptor expression showed a negative and positive association with BLL, respectively. In similarity, serum serotonin levels showed a negative correlation and dopamine receptor expression had a significant positive correlation with total CPMS score. Environmental exposure to Lead (Pb) may result in significant alterations in the neurotransmitter levels which may be associated with neurobehavioral changes in the children exposed to Pb.

Delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) enzyme catalyzes the second phase of the heme biosynthesis and is involved in lead toxicokinetics. This research aimed to evaluate its influence on the relationship between blood lead (PbB) levels and intellectual performance in Afro-Brazilian children. PbB, hemoglobin concentration, ALAD activity, and polymorphism were determined in whole blood. Anthropometric, socioeconomic, and family environment stimuli data were collected with appropriate instruments. The non-verbal intelligence of children and their mothers or guardians was assessed using the correspondent Raven's Progressive Matrix versions. The medians (range) of PbB levels and ALAD activity were 1.0 μg/dL (0.1–21.3) and, 71 U/L (31–113), respectively. ALAD G177C was distributed as follows: 97.9% for ALAD1/1 and 2.1% for ALAD1/2 genotypes. The mean of Raven raw score was 19.3 (± 5.6) points and there were no differences according to sex or environmental Pb exposure. No statistically significant association was observed between PbB level and children's IQ. However, ALAD activity presented an inverse significant association with PbB levels, children's percentile IQ, and children's IQ/Age ratio, suggesting a neuroprotective role of ALAD1 genotype in those with low PbB level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymorphisms in the Aminolevulinic Acid Dehydratase (ALAD) gene responsible for the ALAD1 and ALAD2 alleles have been implicated in susceptibility to lead toxicity. This study aimed to determine the allelic frequency of ALAD2 among children living in Bogor District, Indonesia, and its association with blood lead levels (BLLs) and lead toxicity. A cross-sectional study involving 128 children was conducted during September-October 2019 in the former ULAB area in Cinangka Village. The ALAD polymorphism, BLLs, and hematological parameters were evaluated. Blood samples were taken for dried blood spotting on filter paper, blood film, and BLL measurement. The PCR amplification and sequencing of the genomic DNA revealed the presence of two forms of the ALAD2 allele: 177C and 177T with a frequency of 0.05. Analysis of the correlation between the ALAD2 allele, BLLs, and basophilic stippling revealed that ALAD2 carriers had a five times higher risk of high BLLs, (OR = 5.359, p-value = 0.155) and had a slightly higher risk of exhibiting basophilic stippling (OR = 1.09, p-value = 1.000). Although not statistically significant, these findings suggested that the ALAD genotype may modify BLLs and lead to toxicity. The ALAD2 allele (177T) is firstly reported in any population in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented case demonstrates that acute lead poisoning may occur due to just short-term exposure to a mixture of lead-containing dust and ammunition. Such exposure may result in high blood lead levels persisting for years in the absence of any symptoms. A middle-aged male with a history of an approximately 7-day cleanup of an old recreational firing range with large ammunition and dust deposits presented to an emergency department with abdominal pain, dyspnea, fatigue and impaired cognitive function. Given his occupational history, specific tests were performed that showed high lead concentrations in both blood and urine. The patient was diagnosed with acute lead poisoning. He was started on chelation therapy that improved both clinical and laboratory parameters. Over a subsequent nearly 3-year follow-up, the patient’s blood lead levels fluctuated and continued to be increased. Given the absence of other sources of lead exposure, these were likely due to the formation of bone deposits. Med Pr. 2020;71(3):375–9

Introduction: Lead (Pb) is one of the major occupational pollutants present in the developed and developing countries including India. In humans, Pb can cause a wide range of biological effects depending upon the level and duration of exposure. The goal of this study was to evaluate the blood lead levels (BLLs) and its associated effects on vitamin D and calcium metabolism, among the workers occupationally exposed to Pb. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, case-control study was conducted for a period of 18 months (January 2017 to July 2018). A total of 160 subjects were included in the study (80 in each, Pb-exposed group and control group). The blood Pb levels were quantified by using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry with triple quadrupole technology (iCAP™ TQ ICP-MS). Other biochemical parameters were estimated using fully automatic analyzer by RANDOX, RX-imola, Crumlin, UK and Johnson and Johnson, VITROS® ECi Q, Immunodiagnostic system, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, New Jersey, USA. Results: Upon analysis it was observed that serum calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D levels were significantly decreased (8.35 ± 0.42 mg/dl, 3.07 ± 0.34 mg/dl, and 28.82 ± 10.81 ng/ml respectively;P < 0.001), whereas the BLL and serum iPTH levels were significantly increased (38.02 ± 19.92 μg/dl and 116.78 ± 19.93 pg/ml respectively;P < 0.001) in Pb exposed subjects as compared to control subjects. Conclusion: Our study results demonstrated that high BLL significantly alter vitamin D and calcium metabolism. The data extrapolated from our study emphasizes the necessity of surveillance in exposed workers. As the associated deleterious effects of Pb-exposure can be serious, we propose that a routine-periodical screening of the workers exposed to lead should be conducted.

Background: Lead (Pb) has been suggested as an endocrine-disrupting chemical. However, few studies have investigated the association between chronic Pb exposure and fatty liver disease. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the association of chronic Pb exposure with fatty liver disease and whether the variations of the gut microbiota involve in the mechanism of the fatty liver disease induced by chronic Pb exposure. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 3066 rural participants in East China. Blood lead level (BLL) was detected, and abdominal ultrasonography was used to diagnose hepatic steatosis. Both the definition of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) were used. Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups and each group was exposed to 0 or 0.05% w/v Pb through drinking water for 28 weeks. The relevant parameters of hepatic lipid metabolism and gut microbiota were analyzed. Results: In humans, after adjusting for potential confounders, the odds of having NAFLD and MAFLD were significantly increased by 54% and 52% in the participants in the fourth BLL quartile (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.24, 1.91 and OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.22, 1.89). In the rats, chronic Pb exposure induced the increased visceral fat, hepatic steatosis, and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, including the decrease of richness, diversity, evenness and phylogenetic diversity of the gut microbiota and the significant alternations of the gut microbiota composition, particularly, the decrease of the relative abundance of Coprococcus and Oscillospira at the genus level. Conclusions: Chronic Pb exposure could induce fatty liver disease, which may be associated with the variations of the gut microbiota.

Lead is an occupational toxicant and a recognised health threat particularly in developing countries. Hence, this study explored the interaction of blood lead level (BLL), a conventional marker of lead exposure, with indices of calcium metabolism and biomarkers of bone-turnover in 120 adult male automobile technicians (AT) with ≥ 1 year duration in professional practice. The AT as well as the control group, which comprised 120 age, body-size and socio-economically matched male administrative workers, were recruited from Sagamu, South West Nigeria. Levels of blood lead, serum indices of calcium metabolism [total calcium (tCa), ionised calcium (iCa), phosphate, albumin, magnesium (Mg) and 25-Hydroxycholecalceferol (25-OHCC)], biomarkers of bone formation [bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) and osteocalcin (OC)] and biomarkers of bone resorption [tartarate-resistant acid phosphatase-5b (TACRP-5b) and urinary hydroxyproline (UHYP)] were determined in all participants. The BLL, 25-OHCC, TRACP-5b and UHYP significantly increased while tCa and iCa significantly reduced in AT compared to control. However, no significant difference was observed in phosphate, albumin, Mg, BALP and OC in AT compared to control. Interestingly, BLL demonstrated a significant negative association with tCa and iCa but a significant positive association with 25-OHCC, TRACP-5b and UHYP. However, BLL did not show significant association with phosphate, albumin, Mg, BALP and OC. Increased lead exposure as well as altered calcium metabolism and bone-turnover demonstrated by the automobile technicians may be suggestive of lead-induced accelerated bone demineralisation. These workers may be predisposed to high risk of increased susceptibility to bone diseases if this sub-clinical picture is sustained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the association between blood lead level (BLL) and abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) in US adults aged ≥40 years.Methods: We obtained data from 2013 to 2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Participants missing the data of BLL and AAC scores were excluded. BLL was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry directly. AAC scores were quantified by Kauppila score system, and severe AAC was defined as AAC score >6. Weighted multivariable regression analysis and subgroup analysis were conducted to explore the independent relationship between BLL with AAC score and severe AAC.Results: A total of 1,530 participants were included with the mean BLL of 1.45 ± 1.31 ng/dl and mean AAC score of 1.40 ± 3.13. The prevalence of severe AAC was 7.98% overall, and participants in higher BLL quartile showed higher prevalence of severe AAC (Quartile 1: 3.55%, Quartile 2: 7.28%, Quartile 3: 9.88%, Quartile 4: 12.58%, P < 0.0001). BLL was positively associated with higher AAC score (β = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.27, P = 0.021) and increased risk of severe AAC (OR = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.00–1.22; P = 0.047). Subgroup analysis and interaction test indicated that the association between BLL and AAC was similar in different population settings.Conclusions: Higher BLL was associated with higher AAC score and increased risk of severe AAC. Lead burden should be considered for people with AAC in clinical settings.

Exposure to lead (Pb) through drinking water has been linked to adverse health outcomes. Children are particularly susceptible. This study was designed to measure Pb contamination level in drinking water of the Ethiopian city Addis Ababa and assess the associated health risks. Eighty-eight fully-flushed drinking water samples were collected from all ten sub-cities of Addis Ababa. Pb concentration was measured using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS). The chronic daily intake (CDI), the hazard quotient (HQ), and the cancer risk (CR) of Pb were determined to assess exposure levels and health effects. Blood lead level (B–Pb) for children was modelled using the integrated exposure uptake biokinetic model (IEUBK). The mean concentration of Pb in the drinking water was 17.8 μg/l, where >50% of the samples exceeded WHO's 10 μg/l guideline. Significant spatial variation of Pb was noticed among sub-cities. The mean CDI was 1.43 and 0.59 μg/kg/day for children and adults, respectively. The HQ showed that 8% of children and 2.3% of adults exceeded the safe limit. The predicted geometric mean of B–Pb ranged from 3.23 to 14.65 μg/dl. The risk of a child having a B–Pb level >5 μg/dl at the median water Pb concentration (10.5 μg/l) was estimated at 13.4%. Based on the 95th percentile Pb concentration (75.1 μg/l), 89.6% of children would have B–Pb levels above the 5 μg/dl threshold. The estimated CR was found in the range of 1 × 10−7 to 9.9 × 10−5; hence cancer risks are not a concern. The study concluded that Addis Ababa's drinking water is likely to be a source of lead exposure where consumers at specific city locations are at risk of numerous non-cancer health effects. The impacts are expected to be severe in the Ethiopian context; hence further investigations and coordinated interventions are required.

Automobile technicians in resource-poor settings often work in poor environments and are exposed to chemicals that put them at risk of ill health and disease. These chemical exposures could affect blood coagulation, leading to bleeding disorders or thrombosis. The present study is aimed at assessing prothrombin test (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin test (aPTT) values, serum zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) concentrations, and blood lead level (BLL) among occupationally exposed automobile technicians compared to unexposed controls. A total of 140 consenting participants comprising 70 automobile technicians and 70 unexposed controls were recruited for this case–control study. A 6-mL blood sample was drawn from each participant for estimation of BLL, serum Zn and Cu concentrations, and PT and aPTT values. Blood lead level, and serum Zn and Cu concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, while PT and aPTT values were determined using Innovin PT and Actin FS Activated PTT reagents on the Sysmex CA-101 coagulation analyser. Data were analysed using t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic and multiple linear regression analyses with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The mean BLL, serum Zn concentration, and PT and aPTT values were significantly higher in automobile technicians compared to controls. Binary logistic regression showed that automobile technicians had higher odds of elevated PT value (OR = 21.769; p = 0.000), aPTT value (OR = 1.348; p = 0.018), BLL (OR = 1.261; p = 0.000) and serum Zn concentration (OR = 1.063; p = 0.005) than unexposed controls. Linear regression showed significant positive association of PT value with BLL and with serum Zn concentration. Higher PT and aPTT values reflect prolonged blood coagulation time among automobile technicians, which indicates impairment of extrinsic and intrinsic coagulation pathways associated with work-related exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detrimental impact of the heavy metal lead (Pb) on human health has been studied for years. The fact that Pb impairs human body has been established from countless painful and sad historical events. Nowadays, World Health Organization and many developmental countries have established regulations concerning the use of Pb. Measuring the blood lead level (BLL) is so far the only way to officially evaluate the degree of Pb exposure, but the so-called safety value (10 µg/dL in adults and 5 µg/dL in children) seems unreliable to represent the security checkpoint for children through daily intake of drinking water or physical contact with a lower contaminated level of Pb contents. In general, unsolved mysteries about the Pb toxicological mechanisms still remain. In this review article, we report on the methods to prevent Pb poison for further Pb toxicological research. We establish high-sensitivity Pb monitoring, and also report on the use of fluorescent biosensors such as genetically-encoded fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based biosensors built for various large demands such as the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. We also contribute to the development and optimization of the FRET-based Pb biosensors. Our well-performed version of Met-lead 1.44 M1 has achieved a limit of detection of 10 nM (2 ppb; 0.2 µg/dL) and almost 5-fold in dynamic range (DR) supported for the real practical applications--that is, the in-cell Pb sensing device for blood and blood-related samples, and the Pb environmental detections in vitro. The perspective of our powerful Pb biosensor incorporated with a highly sensitive bio-chip of the portable device for quick Pb measurements will be addressed for further manipulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted to determine the adverse health effects of transport-related air pollution on the people specifically linked to this sector as well as people exposed to vehicular emissions. Body mass index, lead (Pb) exposure, and osteoarthritis risk were measured, while detailed health records were taken through a questionnaire-based survey. Blood lead level (BLL) was higher than the acceptable level; mean BLLs were 27.79 μg/dl and 21.33 μg/dl for significantly exposed and less exposed individuals. Some respondents showed exceptionally high BLL 60 μg/dl. Type II collagen (C2C) cleavage neoepitope, a collagen degrader and Pb biomarker, was also observed in high-exposure (0.056 μg/dl) and low-exposure (0.0126 μg/dl) respondents. This study revealed serious health effects in the transport workers of Abbottabad caused by vehicular emissions. Good percentages of exposed (40–45%) participants were found to have severe cough and hypertension, while a small proportion (15–20%) had acute skin diseases, eye disease, asthma, hearing loss, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, headache, and lung cancer. It was disappointing that people were unaware of the automobile emissions' adverse effects. This study revealed significant health effects of transport occupation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]