Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an always fatal neurodegenerative disease characterised by a gradual death of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brain. The cause of ALS is unknown. A number of occupations are associated with elevated risks for both ALS and lead (Pb) exposure, indicating a possible connection between these two risks. Gasoline station forecourt attendants, also known as petrol station assistants, show one of the highest occupational ALS risks ever calculated, i.e. OR 8.31; 95% CI 1.79 to 38.54
Objectives and Methods: Here, we investigated blood concentrations of Pb in petrol station forecourt attendants (n=38) and a control group (n=36). Participants were divided into groups based on number of years worked. A questionnaire was designed to investigate the health status and work-related life style habits of the participants. Blood samples were collected by medical professionals and analysed for Pb concentration by ICP-MS.
Results and Discussion: A positive correlation between number of years worked and Pb blood concentrations was observed in the petrol station forecourt attendants. The Pb blood levels were also influenced by smoking. Together with the increased ALS risk, the elevated blood Pb levels in forecourt attendants strengthen the hypothesis that lead exposure contributes to ALS, among forecourt attendants as well as other occupations.