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Blood Lead Level among Children between 8-18 years of Age by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry: A Descriptive

Yagya Kumari Shrestha1, Madhav Prasad Khanal1, Shree Krishna Shrestha2

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Nepal Medical College, Kathmandu, Nepal.

JNMA; Journal of the Nepal Medical Association
|February 24, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Lead exposure is a significant concern for children in urban Nepal, with 18.75% of those aged 8-18 exhibiting elevated blood lead levels. This study highlights the urgent need for interventions to mitigate lead toxicity risks in this vulnerable population.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Pediatric Toxicology
  • Public Health Research

Background:

  • Lead is a toxic heavy metal contributing to environmental pollution and adverse health effects, especially in children.
  • Lead toxicity presents a growing global health challenge influenced by various demographic and behavioral factors.
  • Understanding baseline blood lead levels in children is crucial for assessing exposure and developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the baseline blood lead levels in children aged 8 to 18 years in Gokarneshwor Municipality, Kathmandu.
  • To assess the prevalence of elevated blood lead levels within this pediatric population.
  • To investigate potential correlations between blood lead levels and hemoglobin status.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive study was conducted from 2018 to 2019 involving 160 children aged 8-18.
  • Data collection included semi-structured questionnaires and blood lead level measurements.
  • Statistical analysis involved calculating point estimates with 95% Confidence Intervals and descriptive statistics using SPSS v16.

Main Results:

  • The mean blood lead level among the children was 4.39±7.35 µg/dL.
  • A prevalence of 18.75% (30 out of 160 children) had elevated blood lead levels.
  • Children with elevated blood lead levels generally had normal hemoglobin, though 27% of this subgroup had below-normal hemoglobin.

Conclusions:

  • Lead exposure among children in urban Nepal is notably high compared to similar environmental settings.
  • The findings underscore a significant public health concern requiring immediate attention and preventative strategies.
  • Further research is recommended to identify specific sources of lead exposure and implement effective control measures.
Abstract

Keywords:
haemoglobin; lead; spectrophotometer.

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