Evaluation of Lead and Cadmium Levels in Individuals Exposed to Cement Dust

Background: Heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, which are present in cement dust, are elements with a density of more than 5 g/cm3 that are harmful to both the environment and living creatures. This study was set out to evaluate levels of lead and cadmium in individuals exposed to cement dust in Nnewi metropolis.

Study Design: This case-control study was carried out among male and female workers in cement depots in Nnewi metropolis who were selected by simple random sampling.

Methods: Thirty-five individuals exposed to cement dust defined as test participants and thirty-five individuals not exposed to cement dust defined as control participants within the age range of 18 and 51 years were selected into this study. Test participants were sub-grouped based on years of exposure to cement dust into 3 years and below, 4 to 6 years and 7 years and above. Five millilitres of whole blood was collected from each selected participant and levels of lead and cadmium were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. Data were analysed using Independent Student’s T-test and ANOVA with least significant difference post hoc. Data was presented as mean ± standard deviation and significance level was taken at p< 0.05.

Results: The blood levels of lead and cadmium in test participants were significantly higher than blood levels in control participants. The lead levels were significantly higher in test participants exposed to cement dust for 7 years and above than in test participants exposed to cement dust between 4 to 6 years and test participants exposed to cement dust for 3 years and below (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in serum levels of cadmium between test participants exposed to cement dust for 3 years and below, test participants exposed to cement dust between 4 years to 6 years and test participants exposed to cement dust for 7 years and above (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Occupational exposure to cement dust causes high blood levels of lead and cadmium in the body and this accumulation is dangerous to health.