Pediatric lead poisoning

Abstract

Objective. To document the state of lead poisoning in the pediatric population in Mexico, to identify populations at greater risk, and present public policy recommendations to address the problem.Materials and methods. Integrated analysis of 1 747 children aged 1–4 years from the Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición Continua 2022–2023.Lead concentrations were measured in capillary blood by anodic stripping voltammetry.The prevalence of lead poisoning (PbS>5µg/dL) adjusted for different sociodemographic and social vulnerability level was estimated. Populations with a higher risk of lead poisoning were identified. Results.The national prevalence of poisoning was 17.2%, reaching 29% in the indigenous population, 25% in those with chronic malnutrition, 25% with higher levels of socioeconomic deprivation; 20% in rural and urban areas, 12% in metropolitan areas. No differences were found by sex.The highest risk of lead poisoning (52%) occurs in the indigenous population, with chronic malnutrition, residing in rural areas and using glazed clay; a risk 15 times greater than the lowest vulnerability profile (3.5%). Conclusions. Lead poisoning is an environmental justice issue. It is necessary to implement a national strategy to remove the main source of exposure; an epidemiological surveillance system for the identification and care of cases and population biomonitoring in the pediatric population and pregnant women; Monitoring of current regulations is imperative.