Blood lead and erythrocyte δ aminolevulinic acid dehydratase levels in Manchester taxi drivers

Abstract

Among 40 Manchester taxi drivers the mean blood lead was 1.10 μmol/l (22.8 μg per 100 ml). The mean erythrocyte δ aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) activity among 34 of them was 30.1 units. No significant association was found between the blood lead levels and erythrocyte ALAD activity in these 34 men. No significant association was found between either blood lead levels or erythrocyte ALAD activity and duration of service or weekly mileage as a taxi driver or with drinking or smoking habits, or age. The mean blood lead of those with homes in the north east quadrant of the city was higher than of those living elsewhere but the difference was not statistically significant. Although there was no correlation between blood lead levels and the source of domestic water, the mean blood lead of those with lead domestic plumbing was appreciably higher than the level of those with copper plumbing. There was no indication that, by virtue of their occupation the taxi drivers were liable to greater lead absorption than their fellow citizens.