Association of Plasma Lead with Iron Indices and Complete Blood Count among Male Bricklayers in Ibadan, Oyo State

Background: Analysis of cement dust by various investigators has revealed that its contents include mercury (Hg), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), Nickel (Ni), Manganese (Mn) and lead (Pb). Few studies done among cement factory workers in Nigeria showed conflicting results in haematological parameters which could not be related to any particular heavy metals. This necessitated the need for this study.

Objective: This study aims to relate lead level with iron indices and complete blood count among bricklayers.

Methods: Comparative cross sectional study among 45 bricklayers and 45 age and sex matched tailors. Questionnaire was administered to find out occupational practice. Plasma was analyzed for lead by Atomic Absorption spectrometer (AAS) while serum was analyzed for ferittin and iron by ELISA and photometric method respectively. Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) and percentage Transferin saturation (%TFS) were derived by calculation while complete Blood Count (CBC) was determined using a Sysmex Kx21 auto-analyser.

Results: Eighty seven percent of the bricklayers practice their profession without protective coverings. There was a significant increase in the plasma level of lead (p=.00) but decrease in ferrittin among bricklayers compared with controls (p=.00).

Bricklayers with blood lead level above acceptable level (5 µg/dl) had significantly reduced ferittin (p=0.04).

Conclusion: In this study showed a relatively lower serum ferritin level among bricklayers which was more pronounced with increasing lead level. This may suggest depletion of iron store with increasing lead level. The use of protective measures such as gloves, facemasks and protective garments when in contact with cement and regular medical checkups to prevent depletion of iron store and its consequences are hereby suggested.