Organochlorine pesticide residues in human milk in the United Kingdom 1997-8

Abstract

1. The concentrations of a range of organochlorine pesticide residues have been determined in 168 samples of human milk collected between January 1997 and May 1998 in the UK. 2. Of the 18 residues sought, only p,p'-DTT, p,p'-DDE, dieldrin, HCB, β-HCH and γ-HCH were detected. 3. The continuing trend of a reduction in the concentrations of these pesticide residues in human milk samples and in the percentage of human milk samples containing residues was seen. 4. Correlations between the concentrations of p,p'-DDE, dieldrin, HCB, β-HCH and γ-HCH and age were seen. 5. When compared to studies carried out in Europe over a similar time period, residues in this present study were shown to occur at similar or lower concentrations.