Increased blood lead and decreased calcium levels during pregnancy: A prospective study of Swedish women living near a smelter

Lagerkvist, BJ; Ekesrydh, S; Englyst, V; Nordberg, GF; Soderberg, HA; Wiklund, DE

HERO ID

78924

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

1996

PMID

8806376

HERO ID 78924
In Press No
Year 1996
Title Increased blood lead and decreased calcium levels during pregnancy: A prospective study of Swedish women living near a smelter
Authors Lagerkvist, BJ; Ekesrydh, S; Englyst, V; Nordberg, GF; Soderberg, HA; Wiklund, DE
Journal American Journal of Public Health
Volume 86
Issue 9
Page Numbers 1247-1252
Abstract OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to monitor blood lead in a northern Swedish cohort of mothers and children during pregnancy and at birth. METHODS: Blood lead was analyzed during pregnancy and in the umbilical cords of 290 women living near a smelter and in 194 control subjects. RESULTS: During pregnancy, there were statistically significant overall increases in blood lead concentrations by 20% and 15% in the smelter and reference areas, respectively. Mean maternal blood lead concentrations at delivery were 0.15 mumol/L (3.11 micrograms/dL) in the smelter area and 0.13 mumol/L (2.69 micrograms/dL) in the control area. Umbilical cord blood lead levels were 80% to 87% of the maternal levels. Blood lead levels were influenced by place of residence, employment at the smelter, smoking, and wine consumption. Maternal serum calcium levels decreased during pregnancy and were significantly lower than those of the newborns. CONCLUSIONS: An increase in blood lead concentrations was found during pregnancy, despite increased blood volume and unchanged or decreasing environmental lead levels. The mobilization of lead from bone during pregnancy may explain the increase.
Doi 10.2105/ajph.86.9.1247
Pmid 8806376
Wosid WOS:A1996VH21200011
Url <Go to ISI>://BCI:BCI199699238716
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Comments ECRIB. Ring over A. and umlaut over o in H. A. Soderberg.
Is Public Yes
Is Qa No