An overview of lead toxicity and its therapeutic strategies

Lead (Pb) is recognized as one of the most prevalent metals found in the Earth's crust. Its affordability and easy accessibility have led to its extensive use in various industrial applications. Over recent decades, the global issue of heavy metal pollution has escalated, despite increased awareness. This situation is particularly concerning in developing nations, where Pb toxicity poses a significant threat to public health. A critical challenge in addressing Pb toxicity lies in its diagnosis, as it often presents asymptomatically, with many symptoms overlapping with other medical conditions. Blood Pb levels (BLLs) serve as a primary diagnostic test, while additional screening methods assess hematological alteration, including the breakdown of RBCs, elevated coproporphyrin levels, zinc protoporphyrin, and urinary porphyrins, among others. This review intends to outline the systemic toxicity of Pb, emphasizing its impact on various systems, including the Respiratory, Hematological, Nervous, Cardiovascular, Hepatic, Renal, Skeletal, and Reproductive systems. Additionally, this article also examines its genotoxic effect and associated cancer risks. Consequently, there is an urgent need to investigate alternative prevention strategies against Pb toxicity, particularly through dietary supplementation. This review focuses on the vital role of dietary supplements in mitigating Pb toxicity and highlights advanced management approaches. It thoroughly examines the protective effects of phytochemicals, vitamins, probiotics, essential metals, edible plants, and other nutritional supplements in combating Pb toxicity. Furthermore, it discusses advanced chelation therapies utilizing various chelating agents such as CaNa₂EDTA, DMPS, succimer, D-penicillamine, and dimercaprol in a dedicated section. The findings of the present review work indicate that incorporating nutrient supplements into regular diet plans is both straightforward and cost-effective, with fewer side effects compared to alternative treatments. Therefore, these protective strategies are deemed effective and beneficial in reducing the impact of Pb toxicity.