The Effect of Lead Exposure on Systemic Blood Pressure and Renal Function

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: There are number of studies examining the possible relation between lead
exposure and blood pressure. The effect of lead on the kidney damage still remains to be
controversial opinions
Objectives: To investigate the correlation between the blood lead (B-Pb) levels and the
values of blood pressure and renal function.
Methods: This study was conducted from November 2014 to November 2015. One
hundred exposed workers to lead from the battery factories who visited the National
Center for Environmental and Health in Baghdad were included in the study. These
workers visited the center for routine examination, and were compared with 100 control
group (not exposed). Demographic data, history of hypertension, smoking and duration of
exposure, were recorded from the workers. Examination of blood pressure (systolic and
diastolic). The B-Pb levels, blood urea, serum creatinine were measured.in the laboratory.
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and body mass index measured by equations.
Results: There was statistically significant difference in the serum creatinine and GFR
between the exposed and control groups (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant
difference between the two groups regarding the history of hypertension, systolic and
diastolic blood pressure and blood urea (p>0.05). There was statistically significant
difference with systolic blood pressure and blood lead level (p<0.05), no statistically
significant difference with other parameters (p>0.05).
Conclusion: This study indicated that a positive relationship exists between B-Pb levels
and abnormal renal function. And a positive relationship between the B-Pb level and
systolic blood pressure.
Keywords: Blood lead, Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, Renal function.