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Neural tube malformations and trace elements in water

A S Leger, P C Elwood, M S Morton

    Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health
    |September 1, 1980
    PubMed
    Summary

    This study investigated trace elements in tap water and their link to neural tube defects. Results suggest that trace elements in drinking water are unlikely to be a significant factor in congenital malformations.

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    Area of Science:

    • Environmental Health
    • Pediatrics
    • Epidemiology

    Background:

    • Congenital malformations, particularly neural tube defects, represent a significant global health concern.
    • The potential role of environmental factors, such as trace elements in drinking water, has been hypothesized but remains inconclusive.
    • Previous research on the association between trace elements and birth defects has yielded inconsistent findings.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the association between the concentration of trace elements in domestic tap water and the occurrence of neural tube malformations in infants.
    • To determine if specific trace elements in drinking water are linked to an increased risk of congenital malformations.

    Main Methods:

    • A retrospective case-control study design was employed.
    • Eleven trace elements in domestic tap water were analyzed for 11 elements.
    • Infant cases with neural tube malformations were compared with control infants without malformations.

    Main Results:

    • A statistically notable difference was observed only for zinc, which was found in lower concentrations in the cases compared to controls.
    • This observed difference in zinc levels was small and, after accounting for multiple comparisons, is consistent with random variation.
    • No significant associations were found for the other ten trace elements examined.

    Conclusions:

    • The study concludes that trace elements in domestic tap water are unlikely to be a relevant factor in the etiology of congenital malformations.
    • The findings, combined with existing literature inconsistencies, do not support a link between tap water trace elements and neural tube defects.
    • Further research may be needed to explore other environmental or genetic factors contributing to these birth defects.

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