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Tuakashikila YM, Mata HM, Kabamba MM, Malumba AM, Tuakuila JK. Reference intervals for cd, hg, Mn and Pb in the general children population (3-14 years) of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) between June 2019 and June 2020. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:40. [PMID: 36918930 PMCID: PMC10015835 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01054-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The reference intervals (RIs), proposed by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), were derived for Cd, Hg, Mn and Pb in the blood and urine of the children population living in Kinshasa (n = 200, aged 3-14 years with 97 girls). Levels of metals were measured using coupled plasma mass (ICP-MS). In blood, the proposed RIs [P5-P95 (GM)] were 0.022-1.112 μg/L (0.074), 35.69-144.50 μg/L (71.43), 0.060 to 1.161 μg/L (0.208) and 6.597-15.740 μg/L (9.882) for Cd, Pb, Hg and Mn, respectively. Urinary levels [(P5-P95 (GM)] were 0.082-1.530 μg/L (0.366) for Cd, 1.827-18.500 μg/L (5.458) for Pb, 0.323-1.953 μg/L (0.709) for Hg and 0.070 to 1.703 μg/L (0.186) for Mn. As compared to the CDC updated blood Pb reference value (35 μg/L), Pb levels remain higher of public health concern. Cd and Mn levels were similar to those found in the same city in 2015 and databases involving non-occupationally exposed populations from other countries. Hg levels significantly lower than those found in the same city in 2015, probably due to exclusion criteria of metal exposure applying in the present survey (occupationally exposed to the studied metals, smoking habits, amalgam tooth fillings, fish consumption habit more than one time per week, etc.). These background metal exposures will be useful for future occupational and/or environmental surveys as well as undertaking a reliable regulation of chemical exposure in Kinshasa via a national HBM program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y M Tuakashikila
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Toxicology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - H M Mata
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Toxicology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - M M Kabamba
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Toxicology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - A M Malumba
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Toxicology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - J K Tuakuila
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Toxicology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. .,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada.
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Albores-Garcia D, Stansfield KH, McGlothan JL, Bursac Z, Guilarte TR. Chronic early-life lead exposure sensitizes adolescent rats to cocaine: Role of the dopaminergic system. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:946726. [PMID: 36090247 PMCID: PMC9450041 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.946726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to heavy metals has been associated with psychiatric disorders and recent studies suggest an association between childhood lead (Pb2+) intoxication and schizophrenia (SZ). In animal models, Pb2+ exposure recapitulates key neuropathological and dopaminergic system alterations present in SZ. Given the high comorbidity of mental disorders such as SZ and substance abuse, coupled with evidence showing that Pb2+ exposure affects addiction circuits, we hypothesized that early life Pb2+ exposure could sensitize neuronal systems relevant to SZ and substance abuse. To this goal, we examined the effects of chronic developmental Pb2+ exposure on the acute locomotor response to cocaine (0, 5, and 15 mg kg–1) and behavioral sensitization. We also examined the role of the dopaminergic system in the psychostimulant effects of cocaine, and measured D1-dopamine receptor (D1R) levels in the rat brain using [3H]-SCH23390 quantitative receptor autoradiography, as well as the ability of the D1R antagonist SCH23390 to block the cocaine effects on locomotor activation. These studies were performed in male and female rats at different developmental ages consisting of juveniles (postnatal, PN14), early-adolescent (PN28), late adolescent (PN50), and adults (PN120). Our results show that chronic developmental Pb2+ exposure increases the acute locomotor response to the higher dose of cocaine in Pb2+-exposed male adolescent (PN28 and PN50) rats, and to the lower dose of cocaine in adolescent female rats. No changes in the locomotor activity were detected in adult rats. Behavioral sensitization experiments showed a sustained sensitization in early adolescent Pb2+-exposed male but not female rats. The cocaine-induced effects on locomotor activity were abrogated by injection of a D1R antagonist suggesting the involvement of this dopamine receptor subtype. Furthermore, Pb2+-induced increases D1R levels in several brain regions were prominent in juveniles and early adolescence but not in late adolescence or in adults. In summary, early chronic developmental Pb2+ exposure results in age and sex-dependent effect on the locomotor response to cocaine, suggesting differential susceptibilities to the neurotoxic effects of Pb2+ exposure. Our data provides further support to the notion that Pb2+ exposure is an environmental risk factor for psychiatric disorders and substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damaris Albores-Garcia
- Brain, Behavior and the Environment Laboratory, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | | | - Jennifer L. McGlothan
- Brain, Behavior and the Environment Laboratory, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Zoran Bursac
- Department of Biostatistics, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Tomás R. Guilarte
- Brain, Behavior and the Environment Laboratory, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Tomás R. Guilarte,
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Yan LD, Rouzier V, Pierre JL, Lee MH, Muntner P, Parsons PJ, Apollon A, St-Preux S, Malebranche R, Pierre G, Emmanuel E, Nash D, Kingery J, Walsh KF, Smith CE, Metz M, Tymejczyk O, Deschamps M, Pape JW, Fitzgerald DW, McNairy ML. High Lead Exposure Associated With Higher Blood Pressure in Haiti: a Warning Sign for Low-Income Countries. Hypertension 2022; 79:283-290. [PMID: 34878898 PMCID: PMC8667279 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.18250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in lower-income countries including Haiti. Environmental lead exposure is associated with high blood pressure and cardiovascular mortality in high-income countries but has not been systematically measured and evaluated as a potential modifiable cardiovascular risk factor in lower-income countries where 6.5 billion people reside. We hypothesized lead exposure is high in urban Haiti and associated with higher blood pressure levels. Blood lead levels were measured in 2504 participants ≥18 years enrolled in a longitudinal population-based cohort study in Port-au-Prince. Lead screening was conducted using LeadCare II (detection limit ≥3.3 µg/dL). Levels below detection were imputed by dividing the level of detection by √2. Associations between lead (quartiles) and systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were assessed, adjusting for age, sex, obesity, smoking, alcohol, physical activity, income, and antihypertensive medication use. The median age of participants was 40 years and 60.1% were female. The geometric mean blood lead level was 4.73µg/dL, 71.1% had a detectable lead level and 42.3% had a blood lead level ≥5 µg/dL. After multivariable adjustment, lead levels in quartile four (≥6.5 µg/dL) compared with quartile 1 (<3.4 µg/dL) were associated with 2.42 mm Hg (95% CI, 0.36-4.49) higher systolic blood pressure and 1.96 mm Hg (95% CI, 0.56-3.37) higher diastolic blood pressure. In conclusion, widespread environmental lead exposure is evident in urban Haiti, with higher lead levels associated with higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Lead is a current and potentially modifiable pollutant in lower-income countries that warrants urgent public health remediation. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03892265.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily D Yan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Haitian Group for the Study of Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Vanessa Rouzier
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Haitian Group for the Study of Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Jean Lookens Pierre
- Haitian Group for the Study of Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Myung Hee Lee
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Paul Muntner
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Patrick J Parsons
- Laboratory of Inorganic and Nuclear Chemistry, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, New York, USA
| | - Alexandra Apollon
- Haitian Group for the Study of Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Stephano St-Preux
- Haitian Group for the Study of Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Rodolphe Malebranche
- Collège Haïtien de Cardiologie, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
- Medicine and Pharmacology, Université d’État d’Haïti, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Gerard Pierre
- Collège Haïtien de Cardiologie, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Evens Emmanuel
- École doctorale Société et Environnement, Université Quisqueya, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Denis Nash
- City University of New York Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Justin Kingery
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kathleen F Walsh
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Caleigh E Smith
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Miranda Metz
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Olga Tymejczyk
- City University of New York Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marie Deschamps
- Haitian Group for the Study of Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Jean W Pape
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Haitian Group for the Study of Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Daniel W Fitzgerald
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Margaret L McNairy
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Fang CW, Ning HC, Huang YC, Chiang YS, Chuang CW, Wang IK, Fan NC, Weng CH, Huang WH, Hsu CW, Yen TH. Trend in blood lead levels in Taiwanese adults 2005-2017. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260744. [PMID: 34855854 PMCID: PMC8638909 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the trend of blood lead levels (BLLs) in Taiwanese adults and analyzed the variations in the BLL between Linkou (northern) and Kaohsiung (southern) hospital branches. Between 2005 and 2017, 3,804 adult participants received blood lead tests at the Linkou (n = 2,674) and Kaohsiung (n = 1,130) branches of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. The geometric mean of BLL was 2.77 μg/dL. The adult participants from the Kaohsiung branch were not only age older (49.8±14.1 versus 39.4±14.2 years; P<0.001) and male predominant (65.8 versus 41.7%; P<0.001) but also showed a higher BLL (4.45±3.93 versus 2.82±2.42 μg/dL; P<0.001) and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (87.62±25.94 versus 93.67±23.88; P<0.001) than those from the Linkou branch. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the Kaohsiung branch [odds ratio (OR): 7.143; 95% confident interval (CI): 5.682–8.929; P<0.001], older age (OR: 1.008; 95% CI: 1.000–1.015; P = 0.043) and reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR: 1.009; 95% CI: 1.004–1.014; P = 0.001) were significant predictors for BLL > 5 μg/dL. Therefore, this study confirmed a continuous decreasing trend in the BLL in Taiwan after banning leaded petrol in 2000.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Wan Fang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Linkou, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Chen Ning
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research and Development, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ching Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Linkou, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Shao Chiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Wei Chuang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - I-Kuan Wang
- Department of Nephrology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Chia Fan
- Division of Pediatric General Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hao Weng
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Nephrology, Clinical Poison Center, Kidney Research Center, Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Hung Huang
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Nephrology, Clinical Poison Center, Kidney Research Center, Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Wei Hsu
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Nephrology, Clinical Poison Center, Kidney Research Center, Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Tzung-Hai Yen
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Nephrology, Clinical Poison Center, Kidney Research Center, Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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5
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Díaz-Criollo S, Varona-Uribe ME, Téllez-Avila EM, Palma-Parra M, Palencia-Flórez D, Idrovo AJ. Does sulfuric acid have a 'protective' effect on battery recyclers exposed to lead? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:755-761. [PMID: 31693421 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2019.1687659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Culturally significant interventions to prevent lead exposure of battery recyclers are required. Sulfuric acid used in batteries causes skin lesions and could facilitate the recognition of hazards. This study explored whether joint exposure to lead and sulfuric acid can be used in interventions to manage hazardous work conditions. Data were collected from 120 informal workers, and the blood lead level was measured. Predictors of blood lead levels were explored using a tobit model. The median blood lead level was 9.45 µg/dL (Q75-Q25: 48.9 µg/dL); when lead and sulfuric acid exposure occurred, the level increased to 11.44 µg/dL, and when exposure to lead and other substances occurred, the level was 11.50 µg/dL. Workers are unaware of the risks of obvious and acute silent chronic exposure. Future preventive interventions could confront the economic benefits of battery recycling with the recognition of susceptibility and severity related to lead and sulfuric acid exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Díaz-Criollo
- Environmental and Labor Health Group, Research in Public Health Direction, National Institute of Health, Bogotá DC, Colombia
| | | | - Eliana M Téllez-Avila
- Environmental and Labor Health Group, Research in Public Health Direction, National Institute of Health, Bogotá DC, Colombia
| | | | | | - Alvaro J Idrovo
- Public Health Department, School of Medicine, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
- Occupational Health Program, Universidad Manuela Beltrán, Bucaramanga, Colombia
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Endale YT, Ambelu A, Sahilu G G, Mees B, Du Laing G. Exposure and health risk assessment from consumption of Pb contaminated water in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07946. [PMID: 34553084 PMCID: PMC8441166 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to lead (Pb) through drinking water has been linked to adverse health outcomes. Children are particularly susceptible. This study was designed to measure Pb contamination level in drinking water of the Ethiopian city Addis Ababa and assess the associated health risks. Eighty-eight fully-flushed drinking water samples were collected from all ten sub-cities of Addis Ababa. Pb concentration was measured using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS). The chronic daily intake (CDI), the hazard quotient (HQ), and the cancer risk (CR) of Pb were determined to assess exposure levels and health effects. Blood lead level (B-Pb) for children was modelled using the integrated exposure uptake biokinetic model (IEUBK). The mean concentration of Pb in the drinking water was 17.8 μg/l, where >50% of the samples exceeded WHO's 10 μg/l guideline. Significant spatial variation of Pb was noticed among sub-cities. The mean CDI was 1.43 and 0.59 μg/kg/day for children and adults, respectively. The HQ showed that 8% of children and 2.3% of adults exceeded the safe limit. The predicted geometric mean of B-Pb ranged from 3.23 to 14.65 μg/dl. The risk of a child having a B-Pb level >5 μg/dl at the median water Pb concentration (10.5 μg/l) was estimated at 13.4%. Based on the 95th percentile Pb concentration (75.1 μg/l), 89.6% of children would have B-Pb levels above the 5 μg/dl threshold. The estimated CR was found in the range of 1 × 10-7 to 9.9 × 10-5; hence cancer risks are not a concern. The study concluded that Addis Ababa's drinking water is likely to be a source of lead exposure where consumers at specific city locations are at risk of numerous non-cancer health effects. The impacts are expected to be severe in the Ethiopian context; hence further investigations and coordinated interventions are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohannes Tesfaye Endale
- Ethiopian Institute of Water Resources, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box: 56402, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Argaw Ambelu
- Department of Environmental Health Science & Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Jimma University, P.O.Box: 807, Ethiopia
| | - Geremew Sahilu G
- Addis Ababa Institute of Technology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bernd Mees
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653 - B-9000, Gent, Belgium
| | - Gijs Du Laing
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653 - B-9000, Gent, Belgium
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7
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Human biomonitoring in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): A systematic review. SCIENTIFIC AFRICAN 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2021.e00906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Akinwande KS, Olateru-Olagbegi O, Okwor CJ, Uche CZ, Eni BB, Edem VF. Prolonged blood coagulation time among occupationally exposed automobile technicians in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Toxicol Ind Health 2021; 37:528-534. [PMID: 34388958 DOI: 10.1177/07482337211030425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Automobile technicians in resource-poor settings often work in poor environments and are exposed to chemicals that put them at risk of ill health and disease. These chemical exposures could affect blood coagulation, leading to bleeding disorders or thrombosis. The present study is aimed at assessing prothrombin test (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin test (aPTT) values, serum zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) concentrations, and blood lead level (BLL) among occupationally exposed automobile technicians compared to unexposed controls. A total of 140 consenting participants comprising 70 automobile technicians and 70 unexposed controls were recruited for this case-control study. A 6-mL blood sample was drawn from each participant for estimation of BLL, serum Zn and Cu concentrations, and PT and aPTT values. Blood lead level, and serum Zn and Cu concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, while PT and aPTT values were determined using Innovin PT and Actin FS Activated PTT reagents on the Sysmex CA-101 coagulation analyser. Data were analysed using t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic and multiple linear regression analyses with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The mean BLL, serum Zn concentration, and PT and aPTT values were significantly higher in automobile technicians compared to controls. Binary logistic regression showed that automobile technicians had higher odds of elevated PT value (OR = 21.769; p = 0.000), aPTT value (OR = 1.348; p = 0.018), BLL (OR = 1.261; p = 0.000) and serum Zn concentration (OR = 1.063; p = 0.005) than unexposed controls. Linear regression showed significant positive association of PT value with BLL and with serum Zn concentration. Higher PT and aPTT values reflect prolonged blood coagulation time among automobile technicians, which indicates impairment of extrinsic and intrinsic coagulation pathways associated with work-related exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazeem S Akinwande
- Department of Chemical Pathology and Immunology, 557715Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | | | - Chika J Okwor
- Department of Chemical Pathology, 291413University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Chukwuemelie Z Uche
- Department of Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, 107769University of Nigeria, Nigeria
| | - Bassey B Eni
- Department of Internal Medicine, 107769University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Victory F Edem
- Department of Immunology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Nakata H, Nakayama SMM, Yabe J, Muzandu K, Toyomaki H, Yohannes YB, Kataba A, Zyambo G, Ikenaka Y, Choongo K, Ishizuka M. Clinical biochemical parameters associated with the exposure to multiple environmental metals in residents from Kabwe, Zambia. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 262:127788. [PMID: 33182082 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) interferes with various bodily functions. Although high blood Pb (Pb-B) levels in residents from Kabwe, Zambia have been reported, the accumulation pattern of other metals remains unknown. The study was designed to determine the Pb-B, blood cadmium (Cd-B), and zinc (Zn-B) values of 504 representative samples from Kabwe, as well as the potential associated adverse health effects. The Pb-B level ranged from 0.79 to 154.75 μg/dL and generally increased in areas near the mine. A significant elevation of Cd-B was observed in two areas (0.37 ± 0.26 and 0.32 ± 0.30 μg/L) where the two highest mean Pb-B levels were recorded. By contrast, the Zn-B values did not differ greatly with respect to area. Some blood biochemical parameters relating to hepatic and renal functions were out of the normal range in approximately 20-50% of studied adult participants. The δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity was significantly inhibited in the two areas contaminated by Pb and Cd. A significant negative relationship was observed between metal levels and clinical parameters, e.g., between Pb-B and δ-ALAD for all the age categories and between Cd-B and the estimated glomerular filtration rate for all the age categories except 0-4 years. The elevated Cd-B in areas near the mine relative to the other areas suggested the potential adverse health effects of Cd and/or the interaction of Pb and Cd. A significant association of metal levels with clinical parameters also indicated the effects of metal exposure on hematopoietic, hepatic, and renal systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hokuto Nakata
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Shouta M M Nakayama
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
| | - John Yabe
- The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kaampwe Muzandu
- The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Haruya Toyomaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yared Beyene Yohannes
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan; Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Computational Science, University of Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Andrew Kataba
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan; The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Golden Zyambo
- The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Yoshinori Ikenaka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan; Water Research Group, School of Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, South Africa
| | - Kennedy Choongo
- The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia; Fiji National University, College of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Koronivia Campus, Suva, Fiji
| | - Mayumi Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan.
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10
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Kabamba M, Tuakuila J. Toxic metal (Cd, Hg, Mn, Pb) partition in the maternal/foetal unit: A systematic mini - review of recent epidemiological studies. Toxicol Lett 2020; 332:20-26. [PMID: 32569801 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2020.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to summarise the available information regarding the partition of toxic metal (Cd, Hg, Mn, Pb) levels in the maternal/foetal unit from large epidemiological studies. We performed a systematic search of PubMed/MedLine, EMBASE, and ISI Web of Science for papers on Cd, total Hg, Mn or Pb levels in the maternal/cord blood that were published in English (n > = 200; 2010-2017). Data on year of publication, sample size, location, year of survey, and main results were extracted. We found a total of 35 papers. Most studies included large convenience samples of healthy pregnant women. The maternal/cord blood was properly used as a biomarker of prenatal exposure to toxic metals. The partition of these toxic metal levels in the maternal/foetal unit was metal-specific. Cd median levels (IQR) in cord blood reported worldwide were much lower [∼ 70 % < LOD = ± 0.11 μg/L] than those found in maternal blood [0.23 μg/L (0.15-0.35), ∼ 65 % > LOD]. Considering that Cd was under LOD in 70 % of the cord blood, Cd cord:maternal ratio as well as Cd cord proportion were not provided. Total Hg median levels (IQR) in cord blood [0.75 μg/L (0.40-1.19), ∼30 % < LOD = ±0.35 μg/L] were usually higher than in maternal blood [0.55 μg/L (0.40-0.85), ∼ 10 % < LOD = ±0.15 μg/L]. Hg cord:maternal ratio was 1.34 (1.00-1.91), and infants born would have Hg cord:(cord + maternal) proportion ranged from 0.50 to 0.63. Mn was the only metal that was detected in 100 % in both maternal (LOD : ±0.50 μg/L) and cord (LOD = ±0.2 μg/L) blood. Mn median levels (IQR) in cord blood [32.96 μg/L (26.90-40.10)] were 2 times higher than in maternal blood [14.01 μg/L (11.50-17.58)]. Mn cord:maternal ratio was 2.35 (1.09-3.80), and infants born would have Mn proportion ranged from 0.52 to 0.79. Pb median levels (IQR) in cord blood [5.79 μg/L (4.34-8.38), ∼ 5% < LOD : ±2.07 μg/L] were usually equal to or lower than those reported in maternal blood [8.07 μg/L (5.79-10.76), ∼ 1% < LOD = ±1.03 μg/L]. Pb cord:maternal ratio was 0.71 (0.59-0.96), and infants born would have Pb proportion ranged from 0.37 to 0.49. Globally, the results indicate that total Hg and Mn levels were lower in maternal blood but higher in cord blood. However, much greater variability was seen with Cd and Pb. At delivery, total Hg and Pb levels in maternal blood were strong predictors of cord blood levels. Our findings empty that understanding the partition, levels and correlations of toxic metals in the maternal/cord blood may help to elucidate the adverse effects of these metals on foetuses and neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kabamba
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - J Tuakuila
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada.
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11
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Wang Q, Zhao H, Zhu M, Gao L, Cheng N, Cao W. Spectroscopy characterization, theoretical study and antioxidant activities of the flavonoids-Pb(II) complexes. J Mol Struct 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2020.127919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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12
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Wang Q, Zhao L, Zhao H, Liu X, Gao L, Cheng N, Cao W. Complexation of luteolin with lead (II): Spectroscopy characterization and theoretical researches. J Inorg Biochem 2019; 193:25-30. [PMID: 30669063 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The interactions of (CH3COO)2Pb·3H2O (lead acetate trihydrate) with luteolin, 5,7,3',4'-tetrahydroxyflavone, were investigated in methanol solution. The spectroscopy (UV-Vis, FT-IR, HPLC-MS, 1H NMR) and elemental analysis were adopted to assess the interaction of luteolin and Pb(II). The results show that luteolin reacts with Pb(II) through the chelating sites of 4‑carbonyl and 5-hydroxy in two luteolin molecules. The structures, energies, CDA (charge decomposition analysis) and orbitals analysis of the ligand and complex have been analyzed according to quantum-chemical calculation, which is further proofed that luteolin molecule can effectively chelate Pb(II) by 5-hydroxyl-4-oxo chelating site. It is speculated that luteolin has a high potential of becoming a health care product to eliminate lead cation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North TaiBai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Lingling Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North TaiBai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Haoan Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North TaiBai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Xinyan Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North TaiBai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Liguo Gao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, China
| | - Ni Cheng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North TaiBai Road, Xi'an 710069, China; Bee Product Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710065, China
| | - Wei Cao
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North TaiBai Road, Xi'an 710069, China; Bee Product Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710065, China.
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13
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Bede-Ojimadu O, Amadi CN, Orisakwe OE. Blood Lead Levels in Women of Child-Bearing Age in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review. Front Public Health 2018; 6:367. [PMID: 30619808 PMCID: PMC6305709 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reported available studies on blood lead level of childbearing age in Sub-Saharan African women. PubMed and Google scholar databases were searched for original articles reporting blood lead levels of women of childbearing age in Sub-Saharan Africa. Searches were not limited to year of study but limited to studies published in English Language. Data were extracted and synthesized by estimating the weighted mean of the reported blood lead levels. Fifteen papers fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Mean blood lead levels of women in the studies ranged from 0.83 to 99 μg/dl. The overall weighted mean of blood lead levels was 24.73 μg/dl. The weighted mean from analyses of data on blood lead levels of pregnant women alone was 26.24 μg/dl. Identified sources of lead exposure included lead mine, informal lead-acid battery recycling, leaded gasoline and piped water. Elevated BLLs were associated with incidence of preeclampsia, hypertension, and malaria. Important contributing factors for elevated blood lead levels (BLL) in these women include poverty, high environmental lead burden, low awareness on lead exposure hazards and lack of regulation for lead in consumer products. BLLs of women of childbearing age in SSA are unacceptably high. There is need therefore, for aggressive programs to address lead exposure in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onyinyechi Bede-Ojimadu
- Department of Chemical pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Cecilia Nwadiuto Amadi
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port-Harcourt, Port-Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Orish Ebere Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port-Harcourt, Port-Harcourt, Nigeria
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Musa Obadia P, Kayembe-Kitenge T, Haufroid V, Banza Lubaba Nkulu C, Nemery B. Preeclampsia and blood lead (and other metals) in Lubumbashi, DR Congo. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 167:468-471. [PMID: 30125765 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Among parturient women in Lubumbashi, blood lead concentrations [geometric means (25th-75th percentiles)] were higher among 40 women with preeclampsia [6.66 µg/dL (5.16-79.4)] than among 39 control women matched for age and gestation duration [5.08 µg/dL (4.27-6.30)]. Blood lead exceeded 5 µg/dL in 33 (83%) preeclamptic women and 17 (44%) control women [odds ratio 6.1 (95%CI 2.1-17.1)]. In another study, we found high levels of lead in surface dust collected in front of homes in Lubumbashi (36/127 samples exceeding 120 µg lead/g dust). Our findings support the conclusions of a systematic review that increased blood lead level increases the likelihood of preeclampsia. Moreover, our study indicates that, as in other urban areas in Africa, exposure to lead is unacceptably high among pregnant women in Lubumbashi. Preventive measures are needed to protect mothers and children from the serious adverse effects of lead exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Musa Obadia
- Unit of Toxicology and Environment, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
| | - Tony Kayembe-Kitenge
- Unit of Toxicology and Environment, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
| | - Vincent Haufroid
- Louvain centre for Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Célestin Banza Lubaba Nkulu
- Unit of Toxicology and Environment, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
| | - Benoit Nemery
- Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Nemery B, Banza Lubaba Nkulu C. Assessing exposure to metals using biomonitoring: Achievements and challenges experienced through surveys in low- and middle-income countries. Toxicol Lett 2018; 298:13-18. [PMID: 29894842 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In this narrative account based on a keynote presentation on exposure biomonitoring of metals in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), we first briefly address practical issues that have arisen from our experience during the conduct of various surveys in LMIC. These have included the statistical handling of multiple pollutants in the same subject, the problem of correctly adjusting for urinary flow in spot samples of urine, and the possible external contamination of samples when doing field surveys in challenging environments. We then review and present selected results from surveys conducted in the mining area of Katanga in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), where we documented high urinary levels of cobalt and other trace metals (arsenic, uranium) in people living close (<3 km) to mining or smelting operations (Banza et al., 2009). Consumption of contaminated foodstuffs (maize, legumes, fish) and, especially among children, dust ingestion proved to be the main sources of exposure to cobalt (Cheyns et al., 2014). Urinary biomonitoring studies among artisanal workers involved in mining cobalt, craftsmen working malachite, and workers processing gold ore revealed high to extremely high values of cobalt (largely exceeding the Biological Exposure Index of 15 μg/L), as well as other trace metals such as uranium, manganese, lead or mercury, depending on the type of jobs. This abundant biomonitoring data has been valuable to argue for improved enforcement of legislation to protect workers and citizens against the hazards posed by the mining activities in the area. Epidemiological studies have been undertaken and are ongoing to assess the human health impact of this pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Nemery
- Center for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 (706), B-3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Célestin Banza Lubaba Nkulu
- Unit of Toxicology and Environment, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
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Elongi Moyene JP, Scheers H, Tandu-Umba B, Haufroid V, Buassa-bu-Tsumbu B, Verdonck F, Spitz B, Nemery B. Preeclampsia and toxic metals: a case-control study in Kinshasa, DR Congo. Environ Health 2016; 15:48. [PMID: 27044488 PMCID: PMC4820935 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-016-0132-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia is frequent in Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of Congo), especially during the dry season. We tested whether preeclampsia was associated with exposure to environmental metals. METHODS Using a case-control design, 88 women hospitalized with preeclampsia (cases) and 88 healthy pregnant women from the antenatal clinic (controls) were included in the study; 67 and 109 women were enrolled during the rainy and dry season, respectively. The concentrations of 24 elements were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in 24-h urine collections. Differences in the urinary excretion of metals were investigated between cases and controls, and the interaction with season was assessed. RESULTS Cases and controls were well matched regarding age, parity and duration of pregnancy. In controls, the urinary concentrations of most elements were substantially higher than reference values for adults from industrially developed countries, e.g. for lead: geometric mean (GM) 8.0 μg/L [25(th)-75(th) percentile 3.1-13.8]. The daily urinary excretions of 14 metals were significantly higher in women with preeclampsia than in control women, e.g. for lead: GM 61 μg/day (25(th)-75(th) percentile 8-345) in women with preeclampsia vs 9 μg/day (25(th)-75(th) percentile 3-21) in controls (p < 0.001). A significant interaction was found between season and preeclampsia for several elements, with higher urinary excretions in preeclamptic women than controls during the dry season, but not during the rainy season. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed not only that women with preeclampsia excrete higher amounts of several toxic metals, especially lead, than control women, but also that this excretion exhibits seasonal variation, thus possibly explaining the high incidence and seasonal variation of preeclampsia in Kinshasa. Although the exact sources of this exposure are unknown, these findings underscore the need for preventing environmental exposures to lead and other toxic metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Elongi Moyene
- />Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Kinshasa, and General Hospital of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- />Hôpital Général de Kinshasa, Avenue de l’Hôpital, Commune de la Gombe, Kinshasa, DR Congo
| | - Hans Scheers
- />Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment and Health, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Barthélémy Tandu-Umba
- />Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Kinshasa, and General Hospital of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Vincent Haufroid
- />Louvain centre for Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, Institut de recherche expérimentale et clinique, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Baudouin Buassa-bu-Tsumbu
- />Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Kinshasa, and General Hospital of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Bernard Spitz
- />Department of Development and Regeneration (Pregnancy, Foetus and Newborn), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- />Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Benoit Nemery
- />Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment and Health, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Moawad EMI, Badawy NM, Manawill M. Environmental and Occupational Lead Exposure Among Children in Cairo, Egypt: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e2976. [PMID: 26945415 PMCID: PMC4782899 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000002976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess childhood lead exposure in a representative sample of Cairo, and to investigate the possible risk factors and sources of exposure. This cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2014 through April 2015. The target population was children aged 6 to 18 years, recruited into 4 groups, garbage city, moderate-living standard area, urban and suburban schools, and workshops in the city of Cairo. Blood lead levels (BLLs) and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations were measured. Also, potential local environmental sources were assessed for hazardous lead contamination. Analysis on 400 participants has been carried out. A total of 113 children had BLLs in the range 10 to 20 μg/dL. Smoking fathers, housing conditions, playing outdoors, and exposure to lead in residential areas were significantly correlated with high BLLs. The mean values of hemoglobin were inversely correlated with BLLs. Children involved in pottery workshops had the highest BLLs and the lowest Hb values with a mean of (43.3 μg/dL and 8.6 g/dL, respectively). The mean value of environmental lead in workshop areas exceeded the recommended levels. Also, those values measured in dust and paint samples of garbage city were significantly high. Moreover, the mean lead levels in the soil samples were significantly higher in urban schools (P = 0.03) than the suburban ones. Childhood lead poisoning accounts for a substantial burden in Egypt, which could be preventable. Development of national prevention programs including universal screening program should be designed to reduce incidence of lead toxicity among children.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Biomarkers/blood
- Child
- Cross-Sectional Studies
- Egypt/epidemiology
- Environmental Exposure/adverse effects
- Environmental Exposure/analysis
- Environmental Exposure/statistics & numerical data
- Environmental Pollutants/blood
- Environmental Pollutants/poisoning
- Female
- Humans
- Lead/blood
- Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Adult/blood
- Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Adult/diagnosis
- Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Adult/epidemiology
- Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Adult/etiology
- Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Childhood/blood
- Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Childhood/diagnosis
- Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Childhood/epidemiology
- Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Childhood/etiology
- Male
- Occupational Diseases/blood
- Occupational Diseases/diagnosis
- Occupational Diseases/epidemiology
- Occupational Diseases/etiology
- Occupational Exposure/adverse effects
- Occupational Exposure/analysis
- Occupational Exposure/statistics & numerical data
- Risk Factors
- Urban Health/statistics & numerical data
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18
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Li Y, Hu J, Wu W, Liu S, Li M, Yao N, Chen J, Ye L, Wang Q, Zhou Y. Application of IEUBK model in lead risk assessment of children aged 61-84 months old in central China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 541:673-682. [PMID: 26433329 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.09.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/19/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have focused on the accuracy of using the Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) model in Chinese children with site- and age-specific exposure data. This study aimed to validate the accuracy and sensitivity of the IEUBK model in lead risk assessment of Chinese children aged 61-84 months old. A total of 760 children were enrolled from two respective counties in Central China by using random cluster sampling method. Blood lead levels (BLLs) of all subjects were determined using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, as well as that in the environmental media, such as air, drinking water, soil, dust and food. Age- and site-specific time-activity patterns and water consumption were evaluated by using questionnaires for children. Exposure parameters including outdoor and indoor activity time, ventilation rate and water consumption in this study were different from the default values of the IEUBK model. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between the predicted and observed BLLs. Diet and soil/dust lead intake contributed approximately 83.39% (57.40%-93.84% range) and 15.18% (3.25%-41.60% range) of total lead intake, respectively. These findings showed that the IEUBK model is suitable for lead risk assessment of Chinese children aged 61-84 months old and diet acts as an important lead source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Li
- MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Institute of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jia Hu
- Suzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Wu
- MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Institute of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shuyun Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mei Li
- Hanyang Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Na Yao
- MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Institute of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jianwei Chen
- MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Institute of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Linxiang Ye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qi Wang
- MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Institute of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Yikai Zhou
- MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Institute of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Lead exposure and early child neurodevelopment among children 12-24 months in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2016; 25:1361-1367. [PMID: 27165339 PMCID: PMC5102973 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-016-0860-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Childhood lead exposure remains a problem in developing countries, and little is known about its effects on early child neurodevelopment and temperament in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We, therefore, conducted this study to determine the association between lead exposure and the neurodevelopment and behaviour of children aged 12-24 months in Kinshasa, DRC. A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2012, and parents of 104 children were invited to participate. Blood lead levels (BLLs) of each child were tested using the flame atomic spectrophotometry method. All children were subject to a clinical examination and assessed with two selected early child neurodevelopmental tools, the Gensini-Gavito and the baby characteristics questionnaire, to measure their neurodevelopment and temperament. Detectable BLLs ranged from 1 to 30 μg/dl with a geometric mean of 6.9 (SD 4.8) μg/dl. BLLs at 5-9 and ≥10 μg/dl were significantly associated with the child temperament (p <0.05). Perinatal and maternal factors did not seem to affect early child neurodevelopment and temperament. Children exposed to lead were reported with more temperament difficulties at even blood lead levels <10 μg/dl, suggesting the need for preventive and intervention measures to reduce lead exposure among children in Kinshasa, DRC.
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Tuakuila J, Kabamba M, Mata H, Mbuyi F. Tentative reference values for environmental pollutants in blood or urine from the children of Kinshasa. CHEMOSPHERE 2015; 139:326-333. [PMID: 26162326 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2015.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The DRC, as most of African nations, does not have a national biomonitoring programme and there is a lack of information on background levels of environmental pollutants in the general DRC population, particularly in children. The focus of the data presented in this report aims to establish the background levels of a range of environmental pollutants in urine or blood from the children population of Kinshasa. Based on the representative data collection of the Kinshasa population, the survey selected 125 children aged 1-14years and living in Kinshasa (6years on average, 56% of girls, 100% of non-smokers, without amalgam fillings and consumers of fish 3 times per week). Biomarkers of a range of metals (As, Cd, Hg and Pb), pyrene (PAH) and benzene were analyzed in the blood or urine samples. Globally, the results indicate that the exposure levels of children living in Kinshasa are 10 times higher than those published by the American, Canadian and German children surveys. This study provides the first Reference Values of environmental pollutants [As, Cd, Hg, Pb, pyrene (PAH) and benzene] in the Kinshasa children population and reveals elevated levels of all biomarkers studied. The data set of this study may allow environmental and health authorities of DRC to undertake a national biomonitoring programme, especially with four insights for the protection of human heath.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Tuakuila
- Laboratory of Environmental Health and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, USA; Louvain Center for Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology (LTAP), UCL, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - M Kabamba
- Laboratory of Environmental Health and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, USA
| | - H Mata
- Laboratory of Environmental Health and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, USA
| | - F Mbuyi
- Laboratory of Environmental Health and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, USA
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21
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Unraveling Health Risk and Speciation of Arsenic from Groundwater in Rural Areas of Punjab, Pakistan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:12371-90. [PMID: 26445051 PMCID: PMC4626974 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph121012371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 09/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study determined the total and speciated arsenic (As) concentrations and other health-related water quality parameters for unraveling the health risk of As from drinking water to humans. Groundwater samples (n = 62) were collected from three previously unexplored rural areas (Chichawatni, Vehari, Rahim Yar Khan) of Punjab in Pakistan. The mean and median As concentrations in groundwater were 37.9 and 12.7 µg·L−1 (range = 1.5–201 µg·L−1). Fifty three percent groundwater samples showed higher As value than WHO safe limit of 10 µg·L−1. Speciation of As in groundwater samples (n = 13) showed the presence of inorganic As only; arsenite (As(III)) constituted 13%–67% of total As and arsenate (As(V)) ranged from 33% to 100%. For As health risk assessment, the hazard quotient and cancer risk values were 11–18 and 46–600 times higher than the recommended values of US-EPA (i.e., 1.00 and 10−6, respectively). In addition to As, various water quality parameters (e.g., electrical conductivity, Na, Ca, Cl−, NO3−, SO42−, Fe, Mn, Pb) also enhanced the health risk. The results show that consumption of As-contaminated groundwater poses an emerging health threat to the communities in the study area, and hence needs urgent remedial and management measures.
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Yabe J, Nakayama SMM, Ikenaka Y, Yohannes YB, Bortey-Sam N, Oroszlany B, Muzandu K, Choongo K, Kabalo AN, Ntapisha J, Mweene A, Umemura T, Ishizuka M. Lead poisoning in children from townships in the vicinity of a lead-zinc mine in Kabwe, Zambia. CHEMOSPHERE 2015; 119:941-947. [PMID: 25303652 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2014.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/06/2014] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Childhood lead poisoning is a serious public health concern worldwide. Blood lead levels exceeding 5 μg dL(-1) are considered elevated. In Kabwe, the capital of Zambia's Central Province, extensive Pb contamination of township soils in the vicinity of a Pb-Zn mine and posing serious health risk to children has been reported. We investigated BLLs in children under the age of 7 years in townships around the mine; where blood samples were collected and analyzed using an ICP-MS. All of the sampled children had BLLs exceeding 5 μg dL(-1). Children in these areas could be at serious risk of Pb toxicity as 18% of the sampled children in Chowa, 57% (Kasanda) and 25% (Makululu) had BLLs exceeding 65 μg dL(-1). Eight children had BLLs exceeding 150 μg dL(-1) with the maximum being 427.8 μg dL(-1). We recommend that medical intervention be commenced in the children with BLL exceeding 45 μg dL(-1).
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Affiliation(s)
- John Yabe
- The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Shouta M M Nakayama
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ikenaka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yared B Yohannes
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Nesta Bortey-Sam
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Balazs Oroszlany
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Kaampwe Muzandu
- The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kennedy Choongo
- The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - John Ntapisha
- Ministry of Health, District Health Office, P.O. Box 80735, Kabwe, Zambia
| | - Aaron Mweene
- The University of Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Takashi Umemura
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Mayumi Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan.
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Barman T, Kalahasthi R, Rajmohan HR. Effects of lead exposure on the status of platelet indices in workers involved in a lead-acid battery manufacturing plant. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2014; 24:629-633. [PMID: 24849799 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2014.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This study was carried out to determine the effect of Pb exposure on the status of platelet indices in workers exposed to Pb during lead-acid battery plant process. Platelet indices and blood lead levels (BLLs) were determined in 429 male workers. BLLs were determined by using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Platelet indices in the samples were quantified by using the Sysmex KX-21 hematology analyzer. The levels of platelet count (PLT), plateletcrit (PCT) and mean platelet mass (MPM) were significantly decreased and platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR) and mean platelet volume were increased with an increase in BLLs. The results of linear multiple regression analysis showed that the platelet count (β -0.143, P=0.005), PCT (β -0.115, P=0.023) and MPM (β -0.110, P=0.030) were negatively associated with BLLs and P-LCR (β 0.122, P=0.016) was positively associated with BLLs. The variable of body mass index showed a positive association with PCT (β 0.105, P=0.032) and MPM (β 0.101, P=0.039). The results of the study may indicate that lead exposure may impair coagulation function through endothelial tissue injury and reduction of nitric oxide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapu Barman
- Regional Occupational Health Centre (southern), Biochemistry, ICMR, Bangalore, India
| | - Ravibabu Kalahasthi
- Regional Occupational Health Centre (southern), Biochemistry, ICMR, Bangalore, India
| | - H R Rajmohan
- Regional Occupational Health Centre (southern), Biochemistry, ICMR, Bangalore, India
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Ngueta G, Ndjaboue R. Blood lead concentrations in sub-Saharan African children below 6 years: systematic review. Trop Med Int Health 2013; 18:1283-91. [PMID: 23980755 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the geometric mean of blood lead levels in children aged below 6 years living in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Search strategies were developed in MEDLINE, Web of Science and Google scholar system, supplemented by screening of references from included papers and review articles. Studies including children younger than 6 years residing in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) were eligible. The studies were assessed for quality of methods for blood collection, for participants' recruitment and for quality control for lead analyses. Data were extracted and synthetised by estimating the mean weighted by sample size. RESULTS A total of 11 148 published papers were identified with only 16 studies conducted in SSA. Only nine of them were relevant of inclusion criteria. The weighted mean of blood lead levels was 13.1 μg/dl. Five of included studies were classified as being less likely to present selection bias, having performed venipuncture and adequate quality control for lead analyses. The weighted mean from analyses involving only these studies was 16.2 μg/dl. Six of the included studies reported the prevalence of blood lead levels ≥10 μg/dl; levels ranged from 7.0% to 70.9%. Only one study reported the prevalence of blood lead levels ≥5 μg/dl (50%). CONCLUSIONS The geometric mean of blood lead levels in sub-Saharan African children is still elevated relative to the US children. The new standard from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (5 μg/dl) implies that important efforts should be directed towards the initiation (or reinforcement) of prevention programmes and thorough research studies in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Ngueta
- Population Health and Optimal Health Practices Research Unit, CHUQ Research Center, Laval University, Quebec, QC, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec, QC, Canada
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Tuakuila J, Kabamba M, Mata H. High human exposure to pyrene (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon) in Kinshasa, a capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 71:14. [PMID: 23782930 PMCID: PMC3691609 DOI: 10.1186/0778-7367-71-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Data on human exposure to chemicals in Africa are scarce. A biomonitoring study was conducted in a representative sample of the population in Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of Congo) to document exposure to polycyclic aromatics hydrocarbons. Methods 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) was measured by HPLC fluorescence in spot urine samples from 220 individuals (50.5% women), aged 6–70 years living in the urban area and from 50 additional subjects from the sub-rural area of Kinshasa. Data were compiled as geometric means and selected percentiles, expressed without (μg/L) or with creatinine adjustment (μg/g cr). Multiple regression analyses were applied to factors (creatinine, grilled meat habits and smoking habits) influencing 1-OHP (stepwise procedure, criteria: probability F to enter ≤ 0.05 and probability F to remove ≥ 0.10). Results According to the regression models, creatinine, grilled meat habits and smoking habits contribute to explain 45% of the variation in population’s urinary 1-OHP by the environmental exposure. Overall, living in urban area of Kinshasa was associated with increased levels of 1-OHP in urine as compared to a population living in the sub-rural area [GM: 1.8 μg/L (n = 220) versus 1.4 μg/L (n = 50), p < 0.01] as well as compared to the reference values from databases involving American or German populations. Conclusion This study reveals the high pyrene (PAH) exposure of the Kinshasa population. However, more work, with a rigorous design in the exposed population (monitoring of air concentrations and identifying other sources of pyrene –PAH exposure), is needed to establish further documentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Tuakuila
- Medical and Environmental Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo ; Louvain Center for Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology (LTAP), Université catholique de Louvain, Avenue E. Mounier 53, box 52.02.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Martin Kabamba
- Medical and Environmental Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Honoré Mata
- Medical and Environmental Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
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Tuakuila J, Kabamba M, Mata H, Mata G. Blood lead levels in children after phase-out of leaded gasoline in Kinshasa, the capital of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 71:5. [PMID: 23556999 PMCID: PMC3620025 DOI: 10.1186/0778-7367-71-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background The phasing out of lead from gasoline has resulted in a significant decrease in blood lead levels (BLLs) in children during the last two decades. Tetraethyl lead was phased out in DRC in 2009. The objective of this study was to test for reduction in pediatric BLLs in Kinshasa, by comparing BLLs collected in 2011 (2 years after use of leaded gasoline was phased out) to those collected in surveys conducted in 2004 and 2008 by Tuakuila et al. (when leaded gasoline was still used). Methods We analyzed BLLs in a total of 100 children under 6 years of age (Mean ± SD: 2.9 ± 1.6 age, 64% boys) using inductively coupled argon plasma mass spectrometry (ICP – MS). Results The prevalence of elevated BLLs (≥ 10 μg/dL) in children tested was 63% in 2004 [n = 100, GM (95% CI) = 12.4 μg/dL (11.4 – 13.3)] and 71% in 2008 [(n = 55, GM (95% CI) = 11.2 μg/dL (10.3 – 14.4)]. In the present study, this prevalence was 41%. The average BLLs for the current study population [GM (95% CI) = 8.7 μg/dL (8.0 – 9.5)] was lower than those found by Tuakuila et al. (F = 10.38, p <0.001) as well as the CDC level of concern (10 μ/dL), with 3% of children diagnosed with BLLs ≥ 20 μg/dL. Conclusion These results demonstrate a significant success of the public health system in Kinshasa, DRC-achieved by the removal of lead from gasoline. However, with increasing evidence that adverse health effects occur at BLLs < 10 μg/dL and no safe BLLs in children has been identified, the BLLs measured in this study continue to constitute a major public health concern for Kinshasa. The emphasis should shift to examine the contributions of non-gasoline sources to children’s BLLs: car batteries recycling in certain residences, the traditional use of fired clay for the treatment of gastritis by pregnant women and leaded paint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Tuakuila
- Environmental Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
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