Markers of Neurotoxicity: Relating the Serum Levels of Mercury, Lead and Arsenic to Quality of Life of Panel Beaters in Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria’s life expectancy, 54.33 years, is one of the lowest globally. This is made worse by occupational hazards, especially exposure to markers of neurotoxicity, which are most common heavy metals that can be harmful to the body, including aluminum, cadmium, arsenic, lead, and mercury contained in large amount in panel beating facilities, predisposing the artisans to heavy metal toxicity. The short communication reports on the work in progress which aimed to relate serum levels to quality of life of panel beaters who are more prone to the exposure to mercury, lead and arsenic in Enugu, Nigeria. Subsequent report on the field work will carry results, discussion, implications for development, conclusion and recommendations.