Manganese should not be confused with Magnesium, a mineral that is essential for human nutrition.

Who is at risk for welding rod manganism, welder's-disease?

Recent manganism, welder's-disease, research has focused on welding rod industry. Welders are apparently at a greater risk of manganese poisoning than most. Thus, manganism is also known as welder's-disease or welding rod disease. However, welding rod use is not only potential source of manganese exposure. Other workers may also be at risk of manganism. In addition to welding, on-the-job exposure to manganese occurs mainly in mining, alloy production, processing, ferro-manganese operations, and work with agrochemicals (Levy & Nassetta, 2003).

Manganese also enters air from iron, steel and power plants, coke ovens and from dust in mining operations. Those who are at greatest risk of this airborne exposure again include welders, along with railroad workers, miners, steel workers, and those who handle pesticides containing maneb and mancozeb. This list is not conclusive, and there are other groups that may be affected. Contact a qualified medical professional for an evaluation if you feel that you have been poisoned by manganese exposure.

Additional research suggests that men may be at greater risk of manganism than women, although effects were also observed in women (Mergler, et al 1999). Men’s risk may be greater because they are more likely to have a job that exposes them to higher levels of manganese. Most welders, construction workers and other people in jobs that place them at risk for manganism are men. Obvious symptoms may not develop until after age 50; however, subtle, less noticeable symptoms of manganism may also appear in individuals who are younger and who have experienced prolonged, low-level exposure to manganese.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued a paper connecting manganese poisoning to Parkinson's-like manganism; asthenia, insomnia, mental confusion; metal fume fever, dry throat, coughing, tight chest; dyspnea, rales, flu-like fever; lower-back pain, vomiting, malaise and fatigue.

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What should I do if I am suffering from welding rod manganism?

Consult your doctor if you believe you may be suffering manganese poisoning. Make sure that your doctor is aware of similarities between manganism and Parkinson's disease. If you, or someone you love, has been diagnosed with Parkinson's, talk to your doctor about possibility of manganese exposure. Some doctors may not be aware of risk associated with manganism. You may wish to consult a specialist who is familiar with manganism, its symptoms and its treatment.

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Is there a test for manganese toxicity?

Yes. Doctors working with patients who have manganism can administer a test to determine extent of manganese poisoning, as well as likelihood that illness is result of manganese exposure.

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Can anything be done to cure health effects of manganism?

Not yet. The disease can, however, be managed to some extent; although, like Parkinson's disease, there is no known cure at this time. Manganism is considered a chronic condition, in that it remains with sufferer for rest of his or her life.

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What are my welding rod litigation rights on manganese exposure?

Courts have begun to award damages to those plaintiffs who can demonstrate that their health issues are result of manganese exposure and toxicity.