Bioindicator and exposure data for a population based study of manganese

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Neurotoxicology
• Biomonitoring

Background:

• Environmental exposure to manganese (Mn) can pose neurotoxic risks.
• Assessing early neurotoxicity manifestations requires understanding exposure pathways and bioindicators.
• Previous studies highlight the need for detailed exposure assessments in populations with potential environmental Mn exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detect early signs of manganese neurotoxicity in a population with potential environmental exposure.
• To analyze the relationship between blood manganese (MnB) levels and environmental factors like drinking water (MnW), air particulates (MnTP, MnPM10), and sociodemographic data.
• To identify geographic areas with higher MnB levels and their correlation with a former manganese alloy plant.

Main Methods:

• Collected blood samples for total manganese (MnB), lead (PbB), total mercury (HgT), and serum iron (FeS).
• Analyzed drinking water (MnW) and air samples (total particulates, PM10) for Mn and Pb.
• Utilized sociodemographic and dietary questionnaires, alongside geographic analysis and multiple regression modeling.

Main Results:

• The geometric mean for MnB was 7.14 micrograms/L; women had significantly higher MnB than men.
• MnB levels correlated with serum iron in women and showed a tendency to decrease with age.
• Geographic analysis identified regions near a former manganese alloy plant with significantly higher MnB, and airborne manganese, diet (cereals, leafy vegetables) positively contributed to MnB.

Conclusions:

• Environmental factors, particularly proximity to a manganese alloy plant and dietary habits, significantly influence blood manganese levels.
• Gender is a key factor in MnB levels, with women exhibiting higher concentrations.
• Early detection of manganese neurotoxicity requires integrated assessment of environmental, dietary, and individual factors.