Lead and cadmium levels in blood among painters and battery workers: A case control study

Occupational exposure to heavy metals like lead and cadmium remains a significant health concern due to poor workplace awareness and unsafe practices. Therefore, it is of interest to evaluated blood levels of lead, cadmium and oxidative stress markers in occupationally exposed workers (painters and battery workers) compared to controls. Analysis using ICP-MS revealed significantly elevated metal levels in exposed workers, along with decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and increased lipid peroxidation (p < 0.001). Total antioxidant capacity was also significantly reduced, indicating impaired defense against oxidative stress in exposed individuals. Thus, we report the mechanistic link between heavy metal exposure and oxidative imbalance, emphasizing the need for improved occupational safety and preventive strategies.