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Neuropsychological function in manganese alloy plant workers
Rita Bast-Pettersen1, Dag G Ellingsen, Siri M Hetland
1National Institute of Occupational Health, PO Box 8149 Dep., 0033, Oslo, Norway. rita.bast@stami.no
Summary
Manganese (Mn) alloy plant workers showed increased hand tremor linked to exposure levels. Smoking exacerbated tremor in Mn-exposed individuals, but cognitive functions remained unaffected.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Neurotoxicology
- Environmental Medicine
Background:
- Manganese (Mn) is essential but toxic at high levels.
- Occupational exposure to Mn occurs in alloy production.
- Potential nervous system effects of Mn warrant investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate nervous system effects of manganese exposure in Mn-alloy plant workers.
- To compare neuropsychological function between exposed workers and referents.
- To assess the relationship between Mn exposure levels and neurological outcomes.
Main Methods:
- 100 male Mn alloy plant workers and 100 age-matched referents were studied.
- A comprehensive neuropsychological test battery was administered.
- Manganese concentrations in workroom air, blood, and urine were measured to assess exposure.
Main Results:
- Mn-exposed workers had significantly higher blood and urine Mn levels.
- Exposed subjects exhibited increased postural tremor (static steadiness test) and wider tremor frequency dispersion.
- Smoking influenced tremor parameters, with Mn-exposed smokers showing more tremor.
Conclusions:
- Manganese-exposed workers display elevated hand tremor.
- The observed tremor is correlated with manganese exposure parameters.
- Smoking habits significantly modify tremor characteristics in exposed workers.