Assessment of the renal function status in occupationally exposed people working in metal fabricating factory in Nnewi

Abstract

Background of Study: Heavy metal contamination and exposure in work environment is an issue of great public health implication. Aim of the Study: this cross sectional study assessed the renal function status in occupationally exposed people working in metal fabricating factory in Nnewi South Eastern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 15 apparently healthy individuals in metal fabricating factory aged between 19 and 56 years and 79 control subjects (comprising of 39 control subjects from Nnewi (N) and 40 control subjects from Elele (E) respectively) aged between 18 and 44 years were recruited for the study. 5ml of venous blood sample was collected from each subject for the determination of biochemical parameters (potassium, sodium, chloride, bicarbonate, urea and creatinine levels) using standard laboratory methods. Results: The current study showed significantly elevated levels of sodium, potassium, urea and creatinine (p Conclusion: This study revealed the deleterious effect of heavy metal exposure at the work place on the functionality of the kidneys. Keywords: Metal fabrication, Factory workers, Occupational exposure, Heavy metals, Kidney function, Body mass index, Length of service, Age.