Authors: Menezes G.; D'souza H.S.; Venkatesh T.

Source: Occupational Medicine, Volume 53, Number 7, 1 October 2003 , pp. 476-478(3)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

Background Lead poisoning is a common environmental health hazard in developing countries. Incidences of lead poisoning are seen in all age groups, especially in adults working in lead-based industries, where many still remain unaware of the adverse effects of exposure to unusually high levels of lead.

Methods We report the case of an adult battery worker, who initially received symptomatic treatment because of clinical misdiagnosis. Later, he was treated with appropriate chelators, which helped to decrease blood lead levels drastically. However, being unable to change his occupation, he continues to be exposed to potentially lethal doses of lead.

Conclusions A key role for health agencies, besides providing opportunities for diagnosis and therapy, should be to increase public awareness about this widespread environmental hazard through education, documentation and communication.

Keywords: Battery worker; blood lead; chelator; chronic lead poisoning

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/occmed/kqg091

Affiliations: 1: Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, National Referral Center for Lead Poisoning in India (NRCLPI), St John's Medical College, St John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Koramangala, Bangalore 560 034, India.

Publication date: 2003-10-01

More about this publication?

• Occupational Medicine is an international peer-reviewed journal, providing vital information for the promotion of workplace health and safety. Topics covered include work-related injury and illness, accident and illness prevention, health promotion, occupational disease, health education, the establishment and implementation of health and safety standards, monitoring of the work environment, and the management of recognised hazards. Contributions are welcomed from practising occupational health physicians and research workers in related fields.

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