Indian J Clin Biochem. 2026 Aug;41(4):626-632. doi: 10.1007/s12291-024-01271-3. Epub 2024 Nov 18.
ABSTRACT
Lead is a hazardous heavy metal. It has serious health effects due to its unique physical and chemical properties. Lead poisoning can induce inflammatory signaling pathways and oxidative stress. This course decreases resistance to diseases and infections. This study investigates the risks of occupational exposure to Lead in petroleum industry workers and its effect on the increase of high-sensitivity reactive protein (hs-CRP), which indicates an increased risk of heart disease. The study also investigated the antagonistic relationship between Lead and Selenium, as the latter is an important component of the antioxidant defense system. The study included two groups of males: the first group included ninety individuals working in oil well sites in Basrah, and the second group included ninety individuals who were not exposed. The results indicate high levels of toxic Lead, P ≥ 0.0001, and a significant increase in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), P ≥ 0.0001, in the worker's serum compared to the control group. In addition, there was a decrease in Selenium levels (P ≥ 0.001) in the worker's blood compared with the control group. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) was measured using a device (Finecare Plus, FS-112/FS-113/FS-205, Wondfo, China). Lead and Selenium levels were determined using an ICP-OES device (HORIBA Scientific, JY2000, France).
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: Explaining the mechanism of lead toxicity.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12291-024-01271-3.
PMID:42500346 | PMC:PMC13396321 | DOI:10.1007/s12291-024-01271-3