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Lead exposure as a risk factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
1National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA. kamel@mail.nih.gov
Neuro-Degenerative Diseases
|August 16, 2006
Summary
Environmental lead exposure is linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study found higher blood and bone lead levels in ALS patients, suggesting lead
Area of Science:
- Environmental health
- Neurodegenerative diseases
- Toxicology
Background:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) etiology may involve environmental factors.
- Previous studies suggest a link between ALS and occupational lead exposure, but recall bias is a concern.
- Inconsistencies in prior research necessitate further investigation into lead exposure and ALS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess lead exposure in ALS using both biomarkers and interviews.
- To investigate the role of genetic susceptibility in lead exposure and ALS.
- To clarify the relationship between lead exposure and the risk of developing ALS.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study was conducted in New England (1993-1996) with 109 ALS cases and 256 controls.
- Blood and bone lead levels were measured using X-ray fluorescence for bone lead.
- Participants were interviewed about potential sources of lead exposure, and genetic susceptibility was evaluated.
Main Results:
- ALS cases showed an association with self-reported occupational lead exposure and a dose-response relationship.
- Elevated blood lead levels correlated with a 1.9-fold increased ALS risk per increment.
- Increased bone lead levels were associated with a 2.3- to 3.6-fold higher ALS risk per doubling.
Conclusions:
- Lead exposure is implicated in the etiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
- Elevated lead levels in blood and bone suggest a significant role in ALS development.
- Lead mobilization from bone may contribute to the acute onset of ALS.
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