Environmental factors predicting blood lead levels in pregnant women in the UK: the ALSPAC study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Lead is a widespread environmental toxin. The behaviour and academic performance of children can be adversely affected even at low blood lead levels (BLL) of 5-10 µg/dl. An important contribution to the infant's lead load is provided by maternal transfer during pregnancy.

Objectives

Our aim was to determine BLL in a large cohort of pregnant women in the UK and to identify the factors that contribute to BLL in pregnant women.

Methods

Pregnant women resident in the Avon area of the UK were enrolled in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) in 1991-1992. Whole blood samples were collected at median gestational age of 11 weeks and analysed by inductively coupled plasma dynamic reaction cell mass spectrometry (n = 4285). Self-completion pos

SUBMITTER: Taylor CM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3764234 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature