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Heavy Metal(loid) Body Burden in Environmentally Exposed Children With and Without Internalizing Behavior Problems
Kristina M Zierold1, John V Myers2, Guy N Brock2
1Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, RPHB 534C, 1720 2nd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35294‑0022, USA.
Exposure and Health
|June 19, 2024
Summary
Environmental exposures like zinc and zirconium may contribute to internalizing disorders in children. Sex differences play a role, with males showing effects from zinc and copper exposure near power plants.
Area of Science:
- Environmental health
- Child psychology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Increasing prevalence of childhood internalizing disorders (anxiety, depression).
- Potential neurotoxic effects of environmental exposures are understudied.
- Children near coal-burning power plants face unique exposure risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between metal(loid) exposure and internalizing behaviors in children.
- To explore potential sex differences in environmental neurotoxicity.
Main Methods:
- Multivariate logistic regression analysis.
- Metal(loid)s analyzed in nail samples using Proton-Induced X-ray Emission.
- Internalizing behaviors assessed via parent ratings on the Child Behavior Checklist.
Main Results:
- Metal(loid) concentrations in nails differed between children with and without internalizing behaviors.
- Zinc and imputed zirconium exposure associated with internalizing behaviors.
- Sex-metal(loid) interactions revealed sex-specific effects (zinc, copper) and highlighted traffic exposure's association.
Conclusions:
- Environmental exposures, particularly zinc and zirconium, warrant further investigation in childhood internalizing disorders.
- Sex differences are crucial in understanding environmental neurotoxicity.
- Traffic exposure is linked to increased risk.
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