Abstract:
The role of lead pollution in the induction of hypertension and electrocardiogram (ECG) changes has not been sufficiently recognized. The present study is aimed to calculate the association between lead exposure and blood pressure (BP) and ECG findings. A group of 147 lead-exposed workers from a battery plant and 104 controls were examined for blood lead levels (PbB), BP, and ECG. The exposed workers were followed annually from 2008 to 2010. Furthermore, lead in air dust and fumes were also detected in the breathing zone of the workplace. The PbB of lead-exposed workers were correlated with air lead in worksites from 2008 to 2010. A linear regression of repeated measurement analysis showed that diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in exposed workers decreased consecutively from 2008 to 2010 (p<0.01) with reduced lead exposure; however, this value was not correlated with the incidence of hypertension (p=0.138). Abnormal ECG rates were 35.37%, 38.78%, and 44.90% in 2008, 2009, and 2010, respectively, demonstrating an annual increase (p=0.024). Our study showed that lead exposure was crucial factor in causing ECG abnormalities. No correlation was identified between lead exposure and hypertension, and further study is needed. EDTA for the treatment of blood lead object on lead poisoning (PbB) level, abnormal electrocardiogram and blood pressure increases curative effect, and the better effect of the longer range.
