PESTICIDE-RESIDUES IN HUMAN-MILK, ALBERTA, CANADA-1966-70, 1977-78

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 13  (2) , 52-55
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticide residues were determined in human milk of residents of Alberta, Canada, during 1966-70 and 1977-78. Levels of polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), and some common organophosphorus pesticides were also monitored during 1977-78. Average residue levels were generally lower in 1977-78 samples, whereas the percent incidence of residues was generally lower in 1966-70 samples. .beta.-BHC was found in all 1977-78 samples, but was not detected in 1966-70 samples. PCB were detected in all but 2 of the 1977-78 samples. Average levels of p,p''-DDT and its metabolites were substantially lower during the 2nd period than during the 1st. Large increases in the average levels and percent incidences of heptachlor expoxide and o,p''-DDT were attributed to refinements in both cleanup and gas chromatographic analysis. Although no PBB or organophosphorus pesticides were detected in 1977-78 samples, an unidentified hydrocarbon similar to dicofol was found in all samples of that period. No correlation between donor age groups and average pesticide residue levels could be inferred.

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