Heavy metal blood concentrations in association with sociocultural characteristics, anthropometry and anemia among Kenyan adolescents.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To measure heavy metal concentrations among Kenyan youth and quantify associations with sociocultural, demographic, and health factors as well as anthropometry.

Methods

Using data from a study of semi-nomadic pastoralists in Samburu County, Kenya, we measured blood concentrations of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) in 161 adolescents. We identified sociocultural, demographic and health characteristics associated with each metal and quantified the association between metals and adolescent anthropometry.

Results

Median blood concentrations of Pb, Cd, and Hg were 1.82 µg/dL, 0.24 µg/L and 0.16 µg/L, respectively. Place of residence (highlands vs lowlands) was a determinant of metal concentrations. Hg was inversely related to anemia, and metals were no

SUBMITTER: Ashley-Martin J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8636529 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature