Lead exposure and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Epidemiology. 2002 May;13(3):311-9. doi: 10.1097/00001648-200205000-00012.

Abstract

Background: Previous interview-based studies have suggested that exposure to neurotoxicants including metals might be related to ALS.

Methods: We evaluated the relation of lead exposure to ALS, using both biological measures and interviews, in a case-control study conducted in New England from 1993 to 1996. Cases (N = 109) were recruited at two hospitals in Boston, MA. Population controls (N = 256) identified by random-digit dialing were frequency-matched to cases by age, sex, and region of residence within New England.

Results: Risk of ALS was associated with self-reported occupational exposure to lead (odds ratio [OR] = 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1-3.3), with a dose response for lifetime days of lead exposure. Blood and bone lead levels were measured in most cases (N = 107) and in a subset of controls (N = 41). Risk of ALS was associated with elevations in both blood and bone lead levels. ORs were 1.9 (95% CI = 1.4-2.6) for each microg/dl increase in blood lead, 3.6 (95% CI = 0.6-20.6) for each unit increase in log-transformed patella lead, and 2.3 (95% CI = 0.4-14.5) for each unit increase in log-transformed tibia lead.

Conclusions: These results are consistent with previous reports and suggest a potential role for lead exposure in the etiology of ALS.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / chemically induced*
  • Bone and Bones / chemistry*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lead / adverse effects*
  • Lead / blood*
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • New England / epidemiology
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Lead