Lead is a persistent environmental toxicant with well-documented adverse effects on the haematopoietic and immune systems. The present study investigates the relationship between blood lead level (PbB) and haematological parameters in populations residing in and around a closed lead mine area at Sargipalli, Sundargarh district, Odisha, India. Blood samples were collected from individuals of different age groups and sexes from five villages located within a 5 km radius of the abandoned mine site. Blood lead concentrations were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) following standard protocols. Haematological parameters analyzed included total red blood cell (RBC) count, total white blood cell (WBC) count, haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit (PCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and differential leukocyte count. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between PbB levels and most haematological variables. With increasing blood lead concentration, total RBC and WBC counts, ESR, and cytotoxicity percentage showed a dose-dependent increase, while haemoglobin concentration, MCH, and haematocrit exhibited a marked decline. Differential leukocyte analysis indicated neutropenia accompanied by eosinophilia, basophilia, and monocytosis, suggesting immune dysregulation. The findings demonstrate that chronic environmental lead exposure significantly alters haematological profiles and compromises immune function in exposed populations. Blood lead level thus serves as a reliable biomarker for assessing lead-induced haematotoxicity and associated health risks in mining-impacted communities.

AAS, RBC, Haematocrit, WBC, MCH, PbB