International Journal of Health Sciences

Blood Lead Levels among Automobile Mechanics in a Megacity, Lagos, Nigeria
M. Adejumo, Y. V. Olaiya, M. K. C. Sridhar

Abstract
This study assessed blood lead and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) levels among automobile mechanics in Agidingbi, Ikeja Local Government Area of Lagos. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 37 consented automobile mechanics at a mechanic village in the study setting. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire while blood samples were collected through antecubital fossa. Respondents’ mean age was 29 ± 11 years, 64.9% were single while 37.8% were operating as a master of the facility. Some 48.6% occasionally experienced headaches while 35.1% and 29.7% experienced tiredness and abdominal pain, respectively. Most (97.3%) have not heard about lead poisoning, 91.9% did not wear any personal protective equipment (PPE) and 89.2% did not wear apron during practice. The mean blood lead level and PCV% were 4.4±2and 38.7±3.8 respectively. PCV and years of professional practice significantly reflected in blood lead level (R2=0.679, p<0.001) while years of professional experience independently predicted blood lead level (R2adjusted=0.656, p<0.001) when adjusted for age and level of operation. Although, the blood lead level was relatively low to warrant public health concerns, but the use of PPE was poor. Regular use of PPE is encouraged to prevent exposure to lead among automobile mechanics.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/ijhs.v5n2a3