Monitoring of lead exposure among mechanics in Bangkok.

ABSTRACT

Lead is an important heavy metal used in many industrial processes. It plays an important role in the pathogenesis of both acute and chronic toxicity. Mechanics have a high risk of benzene exposure but tend to be a forgotten occupational group in Thailand. In this study, monitoring of lead exposure by anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) determination of blood lead levels was conducted for 69 subjects (29 control subjects and 40 mechanics). The mean blood lead level in the control group was 6.59 +/- 1.98 microg/dl. The mean blood lead level in the mechanics was 11.24 +/- 5.82 microg/dl. There was a significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05). Based on this study, consideration of the prevention of exposure to lead among mechanics as a public health strategy is recommended.