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Maternal and fetal blood lead levels
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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