Cross-sectional study based on occupational aluminium exposure population.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Occupational Health
• Environmental Toxicology

Background:

• Occupational exposure to aluminium is prevalent in industries like aluminium production.
• Previous studies suggest a potential link between aluminium exposure and neurological effects.
• The impact of aluminium exposure on cognitive function may vary with age.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between occupational aluminium exposure and cognitive impairment.
• To compare the effects of aluminium exposure on cognitive function across different age groups.
• To identify critical plasma aluminium concentration thresholds associated with cognitive deficits.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 1660 workers from a Chinese aluminium plant.
• Assessment of cognitive function using the digit-span test (DST) and digit-span backward test (DSBT).
• Measurement of plasma aluminium concentration and analysis using multiple linear and logistic regression.

Main Results:

• A negative correlation between plasma aluminium levels and DST/DSBT scores was observed in younger workers (<40 years) at concentrations ≥34.52 μg/L.
• In middle-aged workers (≥40 years), this correlation was significant only at concentrations ≥42.25 μg/L.
• Logistic regression indicated significantly higher odds of cognitive impairment (DST and DSBT) in younger workers compared to middle-aged workers at elevated aluminium levels.

Conclusions:

• Occupational aluminium exposure is associated with cognitive impairment in exposed workers.
• Younger workers appear more susceptible to the cognitive effects of aluminium exposure.
• Specific plasma aluminium concentration thresholds are linked to increased risk of cognitive deficits, varying by age.