Prospective Study on the Association Between Blood Heavy Metal Levels and Pulmonary Function in University Students from a Medical College in Shandong Province, China.

Background: This study aimed to examine the blood concentrations of selected heavy metals, their corresponding pulmonary functions, and their interrelationship with university students.

Methods: This prospective study, conducted from September 2019 to September 2020, encompassed 593 university students. Participants completed self-administered questionnaires regarding demographic factors and underwent lung function testing and blood mercury analysis at two distinct intervals: an initial assessment and a follow-up examination. Pulmonary function was assessed using Forced Vital Capacity, Forced Expiratory Volume in one second, and Peak Expiratory Flow. The blood concentrations of various heavy metals were determined through inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results: Notable disparities in pulmonary function emerged among university students when categorized by gender, Body Mass Index, physical activity, and seafood consumption frequency, all showing statistical significance (p<0.05). Blood levels of Pb, Mn, Co, and Ni exhibited diverse patterns and extents of correlation with pulmonary function (p<0.05 in each instance). Specifically, a positive correlation was observed with blood Pb levels, while Mn, Co, and Ni levels were inversely correlated with pulmonary function (p<0.01 for both observations).

Conclusion: This study uncovered significant and complex relationships between the blood concentrations of individual heavy metals and pulmonary function in university students. These findings highlight the need for further research to elucidate these associations in greater detail.