September 29, 2006 – Even relatively small amounts of lead in the body increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, say researchers in the United States.
Previous studies had found that more than 10 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood increased the risk of death from all causes. The safety of lower levels, which are found in the body of 99% of the population, has so far been unknown.
But researchers at Tulane University in New Orleans now say rates three times lower would be dangerous1 for health.
Based on data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey2, these researchers found, in the subjects studied, that an amount of 3.62 to 10 micrograms / dl results in a 25% increase in mortality from all causes.
But it is especially the heart that seems to suffer the most, at levels of 3.62 to 10 micrograms / dl: a 55% increase in the risk of suffering from cardiovascular disease and an 89% increase in the risk of dying from a heart disease. heart attack was recorded in these subjects compared to participants whose blood lead level was less than 1.94 microgram / dl.
Exposure to lead will increase blood pressure, interfere with kidney function and impact the central nervous system. This is what could explain, according to the authors of the study, the increased risk of cardiovascular disorders.
With regard to cancer, the researchers noted no increase in the death rate linked to exposure to lead.
They point out, however, that their study was not designed to analyze the safety of a dose of less than 2 micrograms / dl, and that further studies on this subject will therefore need to be carried out.
Some sources of lead Many countries have restricted the use of lead because of its harmful effects on health. However, thermal and power plants continue to release lead into the ground, air and water. Lead is used in the production ofsteel and brass, and in the manufacture of electronic products and D’automotive accumulators. Lead accumulates and persists in the environment. It can be absorbed through the mouth, lungs or skin. Here are some of lead sources3 to which we may be exposed: Food. According to Health Canada, traces of lead are found in almost all foods. Lead in the air returns to the soil, and is taken up by crops. In some countries, lead solder in cans is another source. In Canada, canned food manufacturers do not use lead, but imported foods can. The air. The presence of lead in the air has been greatly reduced thanks to the elimination of lead additives in gasoline. Drinking water. In some areas, tap water may contain lead. This may be the case in homes where the plumbing includes lead solder, or in cities where the aqueducts include old conduits made of lead. Ground. Particularly near roads and lead smelters, soil and dust contain amounts of lead sufficient to be toxic to a young child. Soil contamination also stems from the widespread use of lead in industry in the past. The painting. Lead-containing dust may be inhaled when lead-based paint peels off, when stripping or sanding it, or when burning painted wood. The residential use of lead-based paint has been banned since 1972 in Canada and 1978 in the United States. Handicrafts. Imported artisanal pottery and ceramics are sometimes covered with a lead glaze. Crystal, a variety of glass, can be made with lead. The problem arises if food or drink is served in this type of container, especially if it is acidic and hot. |
Jean-Benoit Legault – PasseportSanté.net
According to Reuters Health.
1. Menke A, Muntner P, et al. Blood Lead Below 0.48 {micro} mol / L (10 {micro} g / dL) and Mortality Among US Adults, Circulation, 2006 Sep 18.
2. The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, conducted in the United States, includes approximately 14,000 adults whose health status has been monitored for 12 years.
3. For more details, see our Lead poisoning fact sheet.