Abstract

This study explored the impact of heavy metal exposure on cognitive function in workers at the Sarcheshmeh copper mine in Iran. Researchers compared 21 exposed miners with 21 non-miners using neuropsychological tests and event-related potentials (ERPs) to assess attention and memory. Blood samples were analyzed for heavy metal levels. Results showed that non-miners performed better on the oral Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), and higher arsenic levels were linked to poorer SDMT scores. Lead levels positively correlated with reaction time in the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT). In the N-back task, non-exposed participants had stronger brainwave responses (P300 and N100) and longer latencies, indicating healthier cognitive processing. The go/no-go task also revealed differences in brain responses, with arsenic and lead levels affecting ERP latencies in specific trial types. Overall, the study suggests that heavy metal exposure may impair cognitive function, though the effects depend on the type of metal and its interaction with the body.