Effect of exposure to high temperatures in the excretion of cadmium and lead.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to observe the effect on urine and sweat excretion levels of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in healthy men in a maximum incremental test until exhaustion and repeated exposure to heat.

METHODS

twenty-nine adult men divided into control group (CG; n = 14) and experimental group (EG; n = 15) performing two maximum tests until exhaustion in normothermia (22 °C) and hyperthermia (42 °C). EG experienced 9 sessions of heat exposure at high temperatures (100 °C) (HEHT). After the nine sessions, the initial tests were repeated in both groups. Urine samples were collected before and after each test. After the hyperthermia tests, sweat samples were gathered.

RESULTS

Urinary Cd increased after initial tests in GC and in hyperthermia in EG (p < 0.05). Urinary excretion of Pb rose after HEHT (p < 0.05). Pb in sweat was higher in EG than in CG after HEHT (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Heat exercise and constant exposure to heat can be a valid method to increase the excretion of toxic metals.