LEAD-EXPOSURE - EFFECTS IN ISRAEL

  • 1 January 1980
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 16  (2) , 89-95
Abstract
Blood Pb levels and parallel ambient Pb exposure levels were studied in selected Israeli population groups. The studies were prompted by newly emerging findings on subtle renal, hematologic and neurobehavioral effects of low levels of exposure to Pb in both children and adults. There was a high correlation (r [correlation coefficient] = 0.89) between individual blood Pb levels in the groups studied and free erythroprotoporphyrin, a measure of the toxic effect of Pb on Hb synthesis. Hb depression was weakly associated (r = -0.66) with rises in blood Pb levels. Blood Pb and free erythroprotoporphyrin determinations can be jointly used in screening for Pb toxicity and Fe deficiency. The Jerusalem population at large is experiencing Pb exposure in the range of rural USA levels. In Israel there are several foci of medically significant exposure requiring a comprehensive approach to control of occupational and environmental hazards. Children of workers from high-exposure locations may face an additional risk.