Abstract
In order to assess the exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in children from East- and West-Germany 276 fat tissue samples were analysed. Total PCB concentrations were calculated by means of six PCB congeners: No. 28, 52, 101, 138, 153 and 180. In children from East-Germany the mean total PCB levels amounted to 0.899 mg/kg (median 0.674) and were significantly higher than in children from West-Germany (0.766/0.555 mg/kg; p less than 0.05). Regional differences were only seen within East-Germany. In fat tissue of children with high intake of breast milk (lactation period greater than 12 weeks) PCB levels were significantly elevated compared to those with low intake of mother's milk (lactation period less than 12 weeks). A further reduction of PCB in our environment is necessary so that breast milk can be recommended for sucklings without any restrictions.
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