Effects of Prenatal and Postnatal Methylmercury Exposure From Fish Consumption on Neurodevelopment

Abstract
INORGANIC MERCURY (Hg) discharged into lakes, rivers, and oceans is converted to methylmercury (MeHg) by microorganisms and bioaccumulated up the aquatic food chain.1 Concern about the potential public health threat from MeHg arose in the United States in the early 1970s when elevated concentrations were found in fish in the Great Lakes. Today, recreational fishing is restricted in many states and Food and Drug Administration guidelines regulate interstate commerce of fish because of their MeHg content.