Evaluation the Effect of Serum Lead Levels on Thyroid Function in Battery Industry Workers

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Toxicology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Lead exposure is a significant occupational hazard, particularly in industries like battery manufacturing.
• Thyroid dysfunction can have widespread health implications.
• Understanding the relationship between lead exposure and thyroid function is crucial for worker health surveillance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between blood lead levels and thyroid function tests in battery industry workers.
• To identify potential risks related to lead exposure in this occupational group.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 100 battery factory workers.
• Collection of demographic data, work environment details, and duration of work.
• Analysis of venous blood samples for lead concentration and thyroid hormone levels (TSH).

Main Results:

• Mean blood lead levels were 297.9 ± 174.2 μg/L, with a mean TSH of 3.69 ± 2.45 mIU/L.
• No significant difference in TSH levels was observed between groups with normal (<300 μg/L) and high (>300 μg/L) blood lead levels.
• Work experience was significantly higher in the high lead group, indicating a correlation between tenure and lead accumulation.

Conclusions:

• Blood lead concentration was not found to be related to thyroid hormone levels or thyroid function in this cohort.
• Increased work experience is a significant factor associated with higher blood lead levels.
• Employers should implement strategies to minimize lead exposure and provide protective equipment to safeguard worker health.