Evaluation of Lead Concentrations in Blood Samples from Donors in a Tertiary Hospital Located in the Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The Niger Delta region of Nigeria has been plagued by decades of environmental pollution due to oil exploration and exploitation activities, as well as illegal artisanal oil refining. This has led to increased levels of heavy metals, including lead, in the soil, water, and air. Blood donors in this region may have elevated blood lead levels, posing a risk to recipients of their blood. This study aimed to determine the blood lead levels in blood donors at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.  Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 246 male blood donors in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital using systematic random sampling. The blood samples were analyzed for lead using atomic spectrophotometry. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic data of the study participants. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze the data.  Results: The mean blood lead level was 35.94 ± 19.09 μg/dL, with 94.7% of donors having levels above the recommended 5 μg/dL. Age and non-smoking status were significantly associated with blood lead concentration (p = 0.03 and p = 0.021, respectively).   Conclusion: The pervasive environmental pollution in the Niger Delta region likely contributes to the elevated blood lead levels in residents, including blood donors. This poses a significant public health risk, particularly for recipients of blood transfusions. The findings of this study highlight the need for regular monitoring of blood lead levels in blood donors and recipients, as well as implementation of strategies to reduce lead exposure in the Niger Delta region.