Lead exposure and asthma: an overview of observational and experimental studies

Abstract

Uncontrolled industrialization has released heavy metal pollution in the world. Heavy metal pollutants disrupt physiological homeostasis and organ functions. Recent studies have suggested an association between lead (Pb) exposure and the incidence and severity of asthma. The purpose of this review is to provide an evidence-based summary of the effects of lead exposure on asthma. An overview of scientific literatures linking this pollutant with asthma will be provided, followed by consideration of the mechanisms underlying Pb-induced asthma. Present findings indicate that Pb may be a factor in the development of asthma through altering oxidative stress, immune and inflammatory responses.

• Asthma
• inflammatory cells
• lead
• oxidative stress
• tracheal epithelium

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.