Research on the Relationship Between Blood Lead Level and Depression, Anxiety, and Anger-in Patients With Occupational Lead Exposure

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between blood lead level and depression, anxiety, anger, and anger expression in workers in the battery industry who are exposed to occupational lead, and workers without lead exposure; we examine whether there is a difference between the 2 groups according to the level of exposure to lead, in terms of these variables. Methods: Participants consisting of 102 male patients were divided into 3 groups, as 2 separate studies and a control group. The Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, State and Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Trait Anger and Anger Expression Style Scale were applied to the participants. Results: It was found that there was a significant positive relationship between blood lead level and anxiety, depression, trait anger, repression and outpouring of anger, and a negative relationship with the ability to control anger. It was determined that the scores for anxiety, depression, trait anger, expression of anger, and control of anger were ranked according to the level of exposure, these scores increased as the exposure increased, and there was a significant difference only in favor of the group with low exposure levels. Conclusion: The variables of blood lead level and exposure level have predictive effects on the development of depression, anxiety, and anger-in those with lead exposure. The data we have obtained will guide us in the efforts to protect the mental health of those working in such industries.