Riassunto

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between cumulative occupational exposure to various metals and arterial compliance in welders.

Methods: The observational follow-up study consisted of 25 subjects. Levels of nickel (Ni), lead, cadmium, manganese, and arsenic from toenails were assessed using mass spectrometry. Arterial compliance as reflected by augmentation index (AIx) was measured using SphygmoCor Px Pulse Wave Analysis System. Linear regression models were used to assess the associations.

Results: For every 1 unit increase in log-transformed toenail Ni, there was a statistically significant 5.68 (95% confidence interval, 1.38 to 9.98; P = 0.01) unit increase in AIx. No significant associations were found between AIx and lead, cadmium, manganese, and arsenic.

Conclusions: Cumulative Ni exposure is associated with increased arterial stiffness in welders and may increase risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes.

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