Lead (Pb) on Women's Health

2/8/11 Health Day News for Healthier Living reports that a new study shows pregnant women may be more sensitive to low level lead toxicity than non-pregnant women.  The study suggests they may be as sensitive as young children.

The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends treating pregnant women and children when blood level of lead exceeds 5 micgrogram/deciLiter (5 mcg/dL).

However, Dr. Lynn Goldman, dean of the George Washington University School of Public Health Services, finds higher blood pressure effects on women at as low as 1 mcg/dL.
Dr. Goldman also suggests lowering the workplace lead levels would be a good place to start.  The Current OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) standards are at 40 mcg/dL.  The study noted a blood pressure effect at as low as 2 mcg/dL.

According to Wikipedia, lead is a poisonous, soft heavy metal.  Its primary toxicity on humans are on nervous system, blood cells, and on kidneys.  It causes poisonous effects through ingestion (eating), drinking contaminated water, or through breathing lead fumes.  It interferes with effective making of the red blood cells (RBC), which can cause anemia.  Its effect on the nervous system is due to displacement of Calcium molecules (Ca++) in the nerve conduction cells, so the nerve cells become ineffective.  Children are more susceptible to lead toxicity - anemia and poor brain development.  Lead can cause miscarriages and elevated blood pressure in pregnant women.

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Elly Hann
Creator and maker of EPiBi Reusable Nursing Pads & Hypoallergenic Diaper Liners