Lead Poisoning Effect on Human Health in a Megacity (India)

Present investigation evaluated the effects of higher concentration of Lead of vehicle exhaust on human health in relation to body fitness and cardio-respiratory responses of middle aged men (n=100) working as bus drivers in a megacity (Kolkata) and private bus driver (n=100) of a district town (Paschim Medinipur). All subjects belong to age group in between 28 years to 35 years. Anthropometric data of vertical height and body mass of the subject of both groups were measured by Anthropometer Rod, Weighing machine and compared. Body fat percent was estimated of the subjects of both groups by Siri Equation putting the value of arm skinfold thickness and iliac skinfold thickness using Harpenden SkinFold Calipers. VO2 max was determined by treadmill exercise with direct measurement of oxygen consumption. Pulmonary minute ventilation (VE) of the subjects of both group were measured by Electronic Spirometer. Blood Pressure was measured by Sphygmomanometer and Radial Pulse rate (beats /min) was also measured. Blood haemoglobin concentration was measured by spectrophotometrical technique and compared. Erythrocyte count of the subjects of bus drivers of district town and that of the subjects of Kolkata was taken by Automatic Coulter Counter. Bus drivers working in small district town had significantly (p