Abstract
Human breast milk is the most complete foodstuff for infants but can also be a potential source of exposure to toxic chemicals. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of metal pollution in the breast milk of women living in agricultural and industrial/mining areas of the Region of Murcia (Spain) that are well known for their cases of environmental pollution. Human milk samples were collected from 50 mothers and inorganic contaminants were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The mean or maximum concentrations of the different inorganic elements analyzed in breast milk, with the exception of manganese, exceeded the maximum limits established by the WHO and could constitute a high risk for pregnant mothers and their children. The breast milk of women living in the industrial/mining zone presented the highest levels of aluminum, zinc, arsenic, lead, mercury and nickel. On the contrary, the highest concentrations of manganese, chromium and iron were determined in the milk of women living in the agricultural zone. These results suggested and confirmed different profiles of environmental contamination of these areas.
Highlights
Breast milk is the most complete and natural food that children can consume during the early stages of their life, as it ensures their proper nutrition and development
The percentages that exceed the maximum tolerable limit (MTL) of the different inorganic compounds in breast milk as established by the WHO are detailed with respect to the total of the samples [19], except for aluminum
This study quantifies the levels of heavy metals and trace elements in samples of breast milk from women in industrial/mining and agricultural areas
Summary
Breast milk is the most complete and natural food that children can consume during the early stages of their life, as it ensures their proper nutrition and development. Breastfeeding contributes to the health and well-being of mothers, helps to space children, reduces the risk of ovarian cancer and breast cancer, increases family and national resources, is a secure way of feeding and is safe for the environment [1]. It even exerts a protective effect when there are high concentrations of toxic substances, as stated by many authors [2,3]. Maternal exposure to heavy metals such as Pb or Hg is associated
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