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Low level methylmercury exposure affects neuropsychological function in adults
Edna M Yokoo1, Joaquim G Valente, Lynn Grattan
1Institute of Social Medicine-Universidade Estaduel do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. eyokoo@terra.com.br <eyokoo@terra.com.br>
Summary
Adults exposed to methylmercury (MeHg) through fish consumption showed neurocognitive deficits. Methylmercury exposure impacts fine motor skills, dexterity, concentration, and verbal memory in adults.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Background:
- Methylmercury (MeHg) is a known neurotoxin affecting both adult and fetal brains.
- Adult MeHg exposure effects are less documented than prenatal exposures due to limited sensitive neurological endpoint studies.
- This study investigates MeHg exposure in adults from Brazilian fishing communities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the neurocognitive effects of methylmercury exposure in adults.
- To correlate hair mercury levels with neurological performance in adults.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 129 adults (>17 years) in Brazilian fishing villages.
- Hair mercury analysis using flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry.
- Neuropsychological testing including memory, intelligence, attention, manual ability, and mood.
Main Results:
- Hair mercury levels ranged from 0.56 to 13.6 microg/g, linked to fish consumption.
- Elevated hair mercury correlated with impaired fine motor speed, dexterity, and concentration.
- Verbal learning and memory were also negatively impacted, showing a dose-dependent effect.
Conclusions:
- Adults exposed to methylmercury are at risk for neurocognitive deficits.
- Disrupted functions (attention, fine-motor, verbal memory) mirror those seen in children with prenatal MeHg exposure.
- Highlights the need for monitoring and preventative measures against MeHg toxicity in adult populations.