Prevalence of Toxic Parkinsonism among Welders

The actual cause of Parkinson's disease is not known. The disease etiology appears to be multifactorial. The role of environmental factors as manganese toxicity has been proposed in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Objectives: To detect the association between heavy metals exposure and the effect on nervous system among welders, suggesting the hypothesis that welders are at increased risk for neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease. Subjects and methodology: Seventy four (74) workers involved in welding process were recruited from four workshops in major industrial facilities in the 10th of Ramadan Industrial area, Cairo Egypt. Full clinical examination for detecting early manifestations of Parkinsonism was performed. Blood levels of heavy metals as manganese; lead, cadmium and Chromium were measured. Results: Parkinsonism manifestations were demonstrated in 11 out of 74 examined subjects. These manifestations revealed statistically significant positive relations with blood levels of lead, manganese and cadmium levels. Conclusion: welders are at increased risk for neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease. Exposure to heavy metals is a great hazard for developing early Parkinsonism. Recommendations: Environmental control measures should be enforced at the work place. Periodic medical checking for early manifestations of Parkinsonism should be done.