Interactions of Lead, Calcium , Vitamin D, and Nutrition in Lead-Burdened Children

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Abstract
This study was undertaken to evaluate relationships between blood or serum levels of lead (Pb), calcium, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD), within the framework of a nutritional survey of lead-burdened children. The results demonstrate that: regardless of blood Pb concentration and season of the year, serum 25-OHD concentration reflects vitamin D intake; high blood Pb (≥60μg/dl) was associated with decreased levels of 25-OHD (18 ± 1 ng/ml vs. 32 ± 1 in controls, P <C .001); concentrations of Pb and calcium were inversely correlated in control and lead-burdened children; and children in the high blood Pb group (≥60 μg/dl) had lower mean daily intakes of both calcium (610 ± 20 mg vs. 770±20 in controls, P < .001) and vitamin D (210±17 IU vs. 325±20 in controls, P < .001). These data indicate that, in Pb-burdened children, multiple factors modify the absorption and toxicity of Pb, and relative vitamin D deficiency, not excess, is associated with high blood Pb levels. Assessment of nutrition, calcium metabolism, and vitamin D status is recommended in evaluating children known to have undue absorption of Pb.