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Bone lead as a risk factor for hypertension in men
1Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
Nutrition Reviews
|June 1, 1996
Summary
This study suggests bone lead levels, a measure of long-term lead accumulation, may increase hypertension risk in men. Higher tibia lead was linked to a greater odds of developing high blood pressure.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Cardiovascular Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- The relationship between blood lead levels and blood pressure remains controversial.
- Bone lead serves as a biomarker for cumulative lead exposure.
- Hypertension is a significant public health concern, particularly in men.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between bone lead levels and the risk of hypertension in men.
- To determine if long-term lead accumulation, indicated by bone lead, is a risk factor for hypertension.
Main Methods:
- A logistic regression model was employed to analyze the data.
- Backward elimination was used to identify significant contributing factors to hypertension.
- Tibia lead levels were measured as a proxy for bone lead.
Main Results:
- Tibia lead levels, body mass index, and family history of hypertension were identified as significant predictors of hypertension.
- An increase in tibia lead from 8 to 37 µg/g bone mineral was associated with a 1.5-fold increased odds ratio for hypertension.
Conclusions:
- Bone lead levels may be associated with an increased risk of hypertension in men.
- These preliminary findings highlight the potential role of cumulative lead exposure in cardiovascular health.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these associations and elucidate underlying mechanisms.