Blood Lead Levels in Children Residing in a 115-year old urban settlement in Harare, Zimbabwe: a cross sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Elemental lead (Pb) is an omnipresent heavy metal with no known in vivo function. Lead-based paints were the leading cause of environmental Pb contamination, until 1978 when an international ban on Pb-based paints was pronounced. A subsequent pan ban was imposed on Pb use in other products including, but not limited to children’s toys and petroleum fuels. Pb toxicity in children, irreversibly affects their growth and development. We assessed the prevalence of high blood Pb levels (BLL) in children living in a potential high risk area and also assessed Pb levels in environmental specimens.Methods: This cross sectional study measured blood lead levels in 86children living in Mbare, a densely populated suburb in Harare, Zimbabwe, characterised by dwellings progressively constructed from 1907 through to the 1940s, before the ban of leaded paint. Study participants of both genders were under 6years of age. Potential risk factors of Pb poisoning were assessed. Pb levels were also assessed in soil, water and paint chip specimens from the study area.Results: The mean (standard deviation) BLL was 4.35 (0.75) g/dL. Twelve (13.95%) participants had BLL of >5.0ug/dL. Our results showed no significant association between BLL and household income, participant behaviour/habits/activities, sources of drinking water, and the types of cookware used in their households.Conclusion: Mean BLL observed in the current study were higher compared to those of children of similar age groups in the United States, suggesting that Pb contamination may be more ubiquitous in the Mbare flats area, potentially predisposing these children to impaired development.