Glycemic Regulation and Renal Function by Heavy Metal Exposure: A Cross-Sectional Analysis on Cement Plant Workers

Heavy metal exposure is known to have various effects on renal function and blood glucose regulation. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cement dust and some metal (cadmium, manganese, nickel, and zinc) exposure on blood glucose and renal function parameters in male cement plant workers. This study is a cross-sectional study involving male workers from a cement plant who presented to our clinic. Based on their HbA1c levels, the participants were divided into two groups: a prediabetes group (HbA1c ≥ 5.7%) and a control group (HbA1c < 5.7%). The differences between two groups were statistically analyzed. A total of 268 male workers were included in the analysis, 134 in the prediabetes group and 134 in the control group. Blood manganese and nickel levels were statistically significantly higher in the prediabetes group, whereas zinc levels were statistically significantly higher in the control group. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups for cadmium. Low-grade positive correlations were found between manganese and nickel and HbA1c. A low-grade positive correlation was found between GFR and cadmium, and a low-grade negative correlation was found between GFR and manganese. In linear models, those with blood manganese levels above 2 μg/L had higher creatinine and lower GFR. Workplace exposure to heavy metals can induce blood glucose dysregulation and renal dysfunction, particularly in workers engaged in high-exposure jobs. The current situation necessitates the implementation of protective measures to reduce exposure.