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Maternal and fetal blood lead levels
Karimi, P.G. Modley, J. Jinabhai, C.C. Nriagu, J.
Karimi, P.G.
Modley, J.
Jinabhai, C.C.
Nriagu, J.
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Abstract
Background. Elevated blood lead levels during pregnancy can
affect neurological development in the fetus 'and the child.
The extent of this problem has not been well studied in ~
developing countries. ~
Aim. To assess maternal and fetal blood levels during
pregnancy.
Setting. The obstetric units of two hospitals in Durban serving
disadvantaged communities.
Results. Maternal and umbilical cord blood levels w~
analysed in 300 women at time of delivery. The me~'
maternal blood lead level was 7.3 /lgl dl but 18.7% of the
samples had values greater than 10 /lgl dI (the US Centers for
Disease Control cut-off level for raised bloodlead level in
children and pregnant women), The mean umbilical cord
blood level was 6.3/lg1 dl and 12% had values greater than 10
IJg/dl. .
Conclusion, This study indicates that there is a significant risk
of maternal and fetal lead exposure in Durban and that
public health measures to reduce.exposure are needed.
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Date
1999
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Attribution 3.0 United States