Gender differences in lead biomonitoring results from occupational exposed workers cohort in Latvia

The evidence shows that there are differences in the effects of toxic metals and the manifestation of adverse health effects between genders. The aim of the study was to evaluate the fluctuations in lead (Pb) between the sexes in a longitudinal cohort of occupational exposed workers involved in the production of ammunition. The blood Pb levels were analysed in 440 samples by atomic absorption spectrophotometry with Zeeman background correction. Samples collection period was from 2014 to 2022. Worker group: 234 men (age 19-72 years) and 206 women (age 18-63 years). The Pb level in the blood ranges from 0.30 μg/dL to 84.20 μg/dL for men, and from 0.04 μg/dL to 13.80 μg/dL for women. Geometric mean (GM) concentration of Pb for women gradually increase with age. In comparison of the age groups 50-59 years and over 60 years, the GM concentration of Pb increases for 67%, respectively from 1.83 μ g/dL to 3.06 μg/dL, possibly due to the hormonal changes by age The highest GM lead level was found in age group 50–59 for men 5.92 μg/dL, respectively. Is shows that even small concentrations in the working environment, contribute to the accumulation of Pb in the long term.