Comparative Assessment of Blood Lead Levels of Automobile Technicians in Organised and Roadside Garages in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Occupational exposure to lead is common among automobile technicians and constitutes 0.9% of total global health burden with a majority of cases in developing countries. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the blood lead levels of automobile technicians in roadside and organised garages in Lagos State, Nigeria. This was a comparative cross-sectional study. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Physical examinations were conducted and blood was analysed for lead using atomic spectrophotometery. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the median blood lead levels of each group using the independent sample (Mann-Whitney U) test. Seventy-three (40.3%) of the organised compared to 59 (34.3%) of the roadside groups had high blood lead levels. The organised group had statistically significant higher median blood lead levels of, 66.0 µg/dL than the roadside 43.5 µg/dL (P < 0.05). There was also statistically significant association between high blood lead levels and abnormal discolouration of the mucosa of the mouth in the organised group. Automobile technicians in organised garages in Lagos have higher prevalence of elevated blood lead levels and higher median levels than the roadside group. Preventive strategies against lead exposures should be instituted by the employers and further actions should be taken to minimize exposures, improve work practices, implement engineering controls (e.g., proper ventilation), and ensure the use of personal protective equipment.

Association between occupational lead exposure and plasma levels of selected oxidative stress related parameters in Jordanian automobile workers

“…It is known that oxidative stress is caused by either increase production of reactive oxygen or nitrogen species or decrease antioxidant defenses or both. Several studies support the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of lead toxicity [1,4,21,22]. The biological mechanisms 12.…”

Oxidative Stress Indices as Markers of Lead and Cadmium Exposure Toxicity in Auto Technicians in Ibadan, Nigeria

“…These have been shown to result in tissue oxidative stress and multiple organ failure as in cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity [5]. Oxidative stress develops due to imbalance between free radical generation and the antioxidant defense system [6].…”

Lead and Mercury Exposure and Related Health Problems in Metal Artisan Workplaces and High-Risk Household Contacts in Thimphu, Bhutan

“…is prevalence reported is in comparative with rates ranging from 20.4% to 75.0% for lead [9][10][11][12] and 15.0% to 72% elsewhere [11,[13][14][15]. is possible reason for such variation could be attributed to different setting, cultural context, and environment.…”