Exploring Blood Lead Level Determinants in Refinery Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Environmental Toxicology
• Industrial Hygiene

Background:

• Occupational lead exposure is a significant health risk in industrial settings, particularly for petroleum refinery workers.
• This study investigated the prevalence and determinants of elevated blood lead concentrations (BLLs) in Kirkuk, Iraq.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of high BLLs among petroleum refinery workers.
• To identify risk factors associated with elevated BLLs in this population.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for mitigating lead exposure.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involved 187 workers from transportation, storage, and production departments.
• Blood lead levels (BLLs) were measured using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS).
• Data on demographics, occupation, smoking, and milk consumption were collected; logistic regression analyzed determinants of elevated BLLs.

Main Results:

• Eighty-five percent of workers exhibited high BLLs (median 17.11 µg/dL).
• Outdoor work (≥9-16 hours) was associated with a 4.25-fold increased odds of high BLLs.
• Age and smoking were risk factors, while milk consumption showed a protective effect.

Conclusions:

• The high prevalence of elevated BLLs necessitates urgent interventions in petroleum refineries.
• Recommendations include regular BLL monitoring, enhanced worker training, dietary modifications (milk consumption), and smoking cessation programs.
• Further research is needed to validate interventions and monitor exposure levels effectively.