Function of respiratory system evaluated using selected spirometry parameters in persons occupationally exposed to lead without evident health problems

This study aimed at evaluation of selected spirometric parameters in persons occupationally exposed to lead without evident health problems. The studies were conducted on 69 men occupationally exposed to lead. Occupational exposure to lead was characterized by estimation of blood lead concentration (Pb-B) and blood zinc protoporphyrin concentration (ZnPP). Function of respiratory system was examined using spirometric analysis with evaluation of its basic parameters: forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (in 1 s) (FEV1), Tiffeneau index (FEV1%VC) and peak expiratory flow (PEF). In the study group negative linear correlations were documented between Pb-B and FVC, FEV 1 and FEV1%VC. A more pronounced age, higher values of BMI and higher blood lead concentration constituted independent risk factors for reduced FEV1%VC.ConclusionPersons occupationally exposed to lead with elevated blood lead concentration and blood zinc protoporphyrin concentration manifested the impaired function of respiratory system, evaluated using parameters of spirometry.