Blood Lead Levels, Hemoglobin, and Liver Enzymes in Opium-Dependent Addicts

Overview

Journal Int J Prev Med

Date 2021 Jun 4

PMID 34084300

Authors

Farzaneh Montazerifar

Mansour Karajibani

Maryam Lashkaripour

Manijeh Sayyad Mollashahi

Abbas Ali Niazi

Moghgan Soltan Mohammadi

Samaneh Rahimi Helari

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Opium addiction, as a major health problem, has been reported in Middle East countries. Recently, contaminated opium has been reported as a probable source of lead poisoning. Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate blood lead levels (BLL), liver enzymes, and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations in opium-dependent addicts with healthy controls.

Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 75 opium-addicted men (case group) referred to Zahedan Baharan Hospital were evaluated. A group of 75 nonaddicted men were selected as a control group. BLL, Hb, and liver enzymes levels were measured. Body mass index (BMI) was also calculated.

Results: The case group had elevated BLL compared to the controls (19.1 ± 1.6 vs. 9.1 ± 0.4; < 0.0001). Hb concentrations were significantly lower in the patients compared to the controls (13.3 ± 1.6 vs. 15.1 ± 1.3; < 0.0001). A positive correlation was found between BLL and opium addict duration in the case group ( = 0.52, < 0.0001).

Conclusions: Due to the contamination of opium to lead, it seems that opiate addicts are at risk of lead poisoning. Thus, it is recommended that the blood lead level is frequently monitored to control the adverse effects of poisoning and prevent lead accumulation.

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