Abstract
Blood lead levels (BLLs) are a useful indication of a population exposure to lead from environmental sources. No previous published study had reported BLLs in Cameroon. Our objective is to characterize exposure levels in children to inform policymakers of potential lead exposure sources. We tested the BLLs of 147 children aged 12 months to 6 years residing in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and conducted an extensive questionnaire with their parents or guardians to characterize potential exposure sources. The geometric mean BLL among this population was 8.0 μg/dl and arithmetic mean level was 8.7 μg/dl. These levels are more than sixfold higher than the geometric mean BLL reported in the U.S. and more than fivefold higher than those reported in France. In addition, 88% of the children tested had lead levels greater than 5 μg/dl. One limitation of the study is that the selection of the children sampled was not a random survey. The analysis of the responses to the questionnaire failed to uncover any specific exposure patterns. A statistically significant association was noted between the age of the child’s home and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding with BLLs. The study points to a need for greater efforts to control sources of lead exposure in Cameroon.
Highlights
There are many known sources of lead exposure in Cameroon and throughout Africa that are contributing to children’s lead burden
Lead was banned from gasoline in Cameroon in 2004, it is likely that soil contamination persists in urban areas based on experience in other countries following this action
Take-home exposures from parents occupationally exposed have been responsible for lead poisoning cases in the past in many countries and are an ongoing risk factor that must be considered in Cameroon
Summary
There are many known sources of lead exposure in Cameroon and throughout Africa that are contributing to children’s lead burden. Local food including spices and tubers contain significant background levels of lead [2]. Lead emissions from improper lead battery recycling, industrial sources, combustion products, lead-containing products, and the legacy of lead additives in gasoline have contributed to environmental exposures. Lead was banned from gasoline in Cameroon in 2004, it is likely that soil contamination persists in urban areas based on experience in other countries following this action. Exposures from this source in combination with lead from paint, dust, air, food, and water contribute to children body burden.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
