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Health status of cable splicers with low-level exposure to lead: Results of a clinical survey

Author

Listed:
  • Fischbein, A.
  • Thornton, J.
  • Blumberg, W.E.
  • Bernstein, J.
  • Valciukas, J.A.
  • Moses, M.
  • Davidow, B.
  • Kaul, B.
  • Sirota, M.
  • Selikoff, I.J.

Abstract

The results of a cross-sectional clinical field survey of 90 telephone cable splicers are presented. Despite the rare occurrence of clinically overt lead poisoning among cable splicers, the observed prevalence of symptoms was 29 per cent for lead-associated central nervous system symptoms and 21 per cent for gastrointestinal symptoms. These two groups of symptoms were directly related to zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) levels but no relationship was found between them and blood lead concentrations. Only 5 per cent of the workers had significantly elevated blood lead levels (>40μg/100ml.). Because of the intermittent lead exposure in this trade, individuals were identified with 'normal' blood lead levels associated with 'elevated' zinc protoporphyrin concentrations, indicating the difference in biological significance between exposure-(blood lead) and biological-response tests (ZPP). Suggestion is made that both types of diagnostic tests be utilized in the medical surveillance of lead-exposed workers.

Suggested Citation

  • Fischbein, A. & Thornton, J. & Blumberg, W.E. & Bernstein, J. & Valciukas, J.A. & Moses, M. & Davidow, B. & Kaul, B. & Sirota, M. & Selikoff, I.J., 1980. "Health status of cable splicers with low-level exposure to lead: Results of a clinical survey," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 70(7), pages 697-700.
    • Handle: RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:10.2105/ajph.70.7.697_5
    DOI: 10.2105/AJPH.70.7.697
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