Heavy Metal Burden and Antioxidant Enzyme Response in Marble Factory Workers

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of occupational exposure to marble factory dust on blood concentrations of selected heavy metals and the status of antioxidant enzymes in workers. Method: One hundred marble factory workers and an equal number of matched controls were included. Blood levels of chromium(Cr),cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and Nickel (Ni) were determined, and activities of antioxidant enzymes were measured spectrophotometric ally. Results: Workers exhibited significantly elevated blood concentrations of Cr,Cd and Pb compared to controls (p < 0.01). Antioxidant enzyme activities were markedly altered, with reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, along with increased lipid peroxidation levels, indicating oxidative stress. Duration of exposure and tobacco use further exacerbated these alterations (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Occupational exposure to marble dust is associated with heavy metal accumulation and impaired antioxidant defense, contributing to oxidative stress in exposed workers. These findings highlight the need for monitoring heavy metal exposure and implementing preventive strategies in marble industries.