Relationship and Accuracy of Urine Lead as an Alternative to Blood Lead Biomarker among Panel Beaters in Enugu Metropolis: Nigeria

The limited alternatives to blood lead biomarkers continue to affect the control of occupational lead exposures. This study assessed the relationship and accuracy of urine lead biomarker as an alternative to blood lead biomarker among roadside and organized panel beaters in Enugu metropolis, Nigeria. This was a cross-sectional analytical study of 428 panel beaters in Enugu metropolis. Samples collected were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) at 283.3 nm wavelengths. Data were analyzed using correlation and receiver operating characteristics (ROC). A linear positive relationship with high accuracy and sensitivity were found between blood and urine biomarkers. Urine biomarker has a linear relationship with blood biomarker and showed a significant accuracy for the measurement of occupational lead exposure. Therefore, a urinary biomarker can serve as an alternative replacement to blood lead in occupational health practice.