Effects of chronic Zinc Fume exposure on memory and cognition

Background:Purpose of present study was to investigate whether chronic exposure to zinc fume would affect serum zinc levels, memory, and cognition in zinc fume-exposed workers. Methods:In a cross-sectional study, all zinc fume-exposed workers (exposed, n=20) were compared with unexposed workers (reference, n=20) matched for sex and education level in a zinc galvanization factory. The workers were undergone Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). Mean WMS score in exposed group (75.80 ± 14.40) was significantly lower than reference group (91.65 ± 15.79); however there was no significant difference in MMSE scores between two groups. There was a negative linear relationship between memory, MMSE scores, and serum zinc level. Exposure to zinc fume may lead to memory problems. Conclusion:Regular measurement of serum zinc level is recommended for exposed individuals.