Analysis of serum lead, copper, iron, and zinc and hematological parameters in battery smelting workers: assessing lead toxicity

The present study is conducted to know the serum lead, copper, iron, and zinc levels, in parallel to hematological parameters, in battery smelting workers to assess lead toxicity. Battery smelting is known to expose workers to high levels of lead, which can have significant negative health effects. Blood samples from 150 participants, including 75 battery smelting workers and 75 controls, were analyzed for metal concentrations and hematological indices. The results revealed significantly elevated levels of lead in the serum of battery smelting workers as compared to control group. Elevated lead levels were also correlated with significantly decreased hemoglobin levels and hematocrit values, manifesting potential anemia in these workers. In addition, disarrangements in serum copper, iron, and zinc levels were also observed, proposing a possible interaction between lead exposure and the metabolism of these essential metals. These findings highlight the need for regular monitoring of battery smelting facilities and environment and to take improved protective measures to prevent lead toxicity and its associated hematological disturbances. This study aims to analyze the effect of occupational lead exposure on blood levels of lead, zinc, iron, and copper in battery workers compared to normal subjects and evaluate their blood counts.