Association of mini-mental state with heavy metal exposer : a case-control study using BAMSE questionnaire

Abstract

Heavy metal exposure, particularly in occupational settings, poses significant risks to human health, including potential impacts on cognitive function. This case-control study aimed to investigate the association between occupational heavy metal exposure and mini-mental state using the Bangla Adaptation of the Mini-Mental State Examination (BAMSE) questionnaire. A total of 128 participants were recruited, comprising 77 factory workers occupationally exposed to heavy metals (focus group) and 51 non-exposed individuals (control group). Cognitive performance was assessed across various domains, including orientation, registration, attention, calculation, recall, language, and praxis. Independent t-tests revealed a statistically significant difference in the attention domain (naming days of the week backwards), with the focus group scoring higher (mean 4.83 ± 0.52) than the control group (mean 4.50 ± 1.05; t = 2.299, p = 0.023). No significant differences were observed in other domains or total scores. These findings suggest that while overall cognitive function may not differ markedly, specific attentional deficits could be linked to heavy metal exposure. Further research with larger samples and longitudinal designs is recommended to elucidate causal relationships and inform occupational health interventions.