Levels of selected trace metals in the scalp hair of an industrially exposed population segment of Pakistan

Levels of nine metals (Ag, Al, As, Cr, Cd, Hg, Ni, Sr and Pb) were determined in the scalp hair of industrially exposed male population of Karachi, Pakistan. These levels are compared with those of non‐exposed population so as to ascertain the current status of environmental pollution and the extent of occupational exposure. A comparison is also made between metal levels of washed and unwashed hair samples. For industrially exposed population the maximum level was observed for Pb(34.6 μg/g), followed by Al(17.2 μg/g) and Ni(10.1 μg/g). Statistical analysis showed that the levels of industrial metals (Cr, Cd, Pb, Ni and Ag) were higher in case of industrially exposed population. The age‐wise distribution of heavy metals in the hair of exposed population showed that Ag and Ni levels increased distinctly with increasing age. The regression analysis showed fractional slope values indicating the concentrations of the metals in the hair of exposed population sector substantially exceeding those from the urban sector. Metal‐to‐metal correlation coefficient study showed some strong correlations (r ≥ 0.800) between industrial metals, such as between Pb, Cd and Cr, for the exposed population. The results of the present study were found to be in agreement with earlier literature citations.