Epidemiologic study of cadmium and lead in the hair of ceramists and dental personnel

Abstract

Ceramists may be exposed to heavy metal‐containing dusts and vapors, especially when working with colored glazes. Because cadmium‐ and lead‐containing glazes are commonly used, an epidemiologic study of the hair content of these metals among 70 ceramists in central New York was conducted. A comparably aged group of 75 dentists and orthodontists in the same geographic area was used as the control cohort. The median levels of both metals in the hair of the ceramists were significantly higher than those among the dental personnel. Most variables, including work habits and elements of the occupational setting, showed no significant effects on the concentrations of cadmium and lead in ceramists’ hair. However, those ceramists whose studios were ventilated showed significantly lower levels of both metals in their hair. The use of protective masks or respirators was associated with significantly higher levels of cadmium in the hair of ceramists. A review of the literature on the subject is presented and the health significance of the results is discussed.