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Abstract
A statistically significant reduction of the sodium-potassium activated adeno- sine-triphosphatase (Na+/K+-ATPase) activity of erythrocyte membranes has been previously demonstrated in lead-poisoned workers. Levels of Na+/K+-ATPase activity of the erythrocyte membranes and of lead in blood were investigated in “critical” population groups not occupationally exposed to lead: (1) traffic policemen and clerical workers living in a highly industrialized city like Milan, and (2) clerical workers living near lead smelters. A negative correlation was observed between blood lead levels and the Na+/K+-ATPase activity of the erythrocyte membranes. The highest mean value of Na+/K+-ATPase activity of the erythrocyte membranes and the lowest mean value of lead in blood were found in the group of clerical workers living in Milan. Progressively lower mean values of Na+/K+-ATPase activity of the erythrocyte membranes and conversely higher mean values of lead in blood were observed in traffic policemen and in subjects living near lead smelters.