LAUSR

The results suggest that occupational exposure to low doses of Nickel present in urban pollution may influence the thyroid hormones in outdoor workers. Preventive measures should be taken to protect the health of outdoor workers and general population. During medical examination Nickel exposure should be carefully considered. Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a low-dose exposure to nickel, as it is present in urban air, on thyroid hormones and on thyrotropin in outdoor workers exposed to urban pollutants. Materials and Methods A total of 164 outdoor workers were studied and divided by sex and smoking habit. Each worker underwent measurement of urinary nickel and of blood triiodothyronine, L-thyroxine, and thyrotropin levels. The statistical analysis was performed. Results Statistical analysis shows a significant and positive correlation between urinary nickel and L-thyroxine, both in total sample and in males. Discussion and Conclusion The study suggests that occupational exposure to a low dose of nickel may affect thyroid function in municipal police workers. These data may provide information on other categories of outdoor workers with similar exposure.