Relationship of bioelemental status and changes in the functional state of the lungs in EMERCOM firefighters of Russia

Abstract

Background: Firefighters are characterized by constant interaction with smoke and various combustion products, which, entering the body can, affect the state of the respiratory system.
 Objective: To study the relationship of the bioelemental status with changes in the functional state of the lungs in firefighters of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia.
 Results: The study revealed an increase in a number of toxic microelements in firefighters by 2-5 times compared with persons not participating in fire extinguishing, as well as a decrease in the content of essential microelements in the studied hair samples. The connection of toxic trace elements (aluminum, silver, cadmium) with a decrease in the diffusion capacity of the lungs, broncho-obstructive changes and pulmonary fibrosis was shown.
 The study showed the relationship between the accumulation of the level of silver, aluminum and cadmium with noticeable changes in the functional state of the lungs.