Elevated blood lead and metal levels among occupationally exposed tribal fishermen in Tamil Nadu, India.

BACKGROUND

Fishermen are exposed to hazardous substances, including metals, through fishing-related activities, posing significant health risks, particularly among vulnerable tribal communities in mangrove ecosystems.

OBJECTIVES

This study assessed blood metal levels among tribal fishermen from Pichavaram, Tamil Nadu, India.

METHODS

Blood samples from 53 fishermen were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) to quantify chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn). Occupational exposure data were collected through surveys, and findings were compared to international reference values (RV95).

RESULTS

The mean ± SD concentrations of Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn were 884 ± 804, 441 ± 427, 95 ± 93, 157 ± 147, 208 ± 172, and 2841 ± 2695 µg/L, respectively-markedly exceeding international reference values (RV95). Blood lead levels (BLLs) were of particular concern. About 74 % of the participants exceeded the CDC reference values of 5 µg/dL, 55 % surpassed the ACGIH biological exposure index value of 20 µg/dL, and 15 % exceeded the OSHA occupational threshold limit of 40 µg/dL. Fishnet makers had the highest mean BLLs (269 µg/L), likely due to direct contact with lead-based fishing sinkers. A significant differences in metal load (p < 0.01) was observed between occupational roles and elevated blood metal concentrations, with non-users of personal protective equipment (PPE) exhibiting higher metal burdens.

CONCLUSION

Tribal fishermen in Pichavaram face significant health risks from elevated toxic trace metal exposure, especially lead. Immediate interventions, such as promoting personal protective equipment (PPE), stricter regulations, and educational programs, are essential. This pioneering study underscores the need for effective public health policies to safeguard fishing communities and highlights occupational hazards in vulnerable populations.