Use Of Kohl Research Articles

Blood Lead Levels in the Population Living in Algeria: A Cross-Sectional National Study.

Lead poisoning, is currently recognized as a real public health problem, The WHO classifies lead as one of 10 chemicals of serious public health concern. In Algeria and North Africa, to date, no study on the evaluation of lead impregnation has been carried out at the national level. The main objective of this work is to assess the exposure of the general Algerian population to lead. A cross-sectional study was carried out over the entire Algerian national territory, on a population aged between 3 and 74years old. The survey lasted three years, A questionnaire, a clinical examination and a blood sample were carried out for each individual. Generalized linear regression models were used to determine the factors influencing lead levels measured in blood samples. The study population, spread over 39 wilayas and 121 districts, consists of 3674 individuals. The mean lead levels were 28.27μg/L, the median was 22.22μg/L, and the 95th percentile was 73.83μg/L, Blood lead levels were influenced differently by age, gender, wilaya of residence, dietary habits such as consumption of canned food and the way in which water is conserved for daily consumption. The use of kohl has been confirmed as a potential source of lead exposure. In Algeria, a blood lead value of 75µg/L serves as the Reference Exposure Value, guiding public health responses and risk management strategies, Recommendations have been issued to reduce the blood lead levels of the general population in Algeria in terms of limitation of lead in the sources of exposure, installation of an effective health monitoring system.

Biomonitoring of exposure of Algerian population to lead

Lead poisoning, is currently recognized as a real public health problem. The WHO classifies lead as one of 10 chemicals of serious public health concern. The assessment and management of health risks and public health interventions are largely based on a detailed knowledge of exposure of the general population. Biomonitoring has become an essential tool in environmental health. In Algeria, to date, no study on the evaluation of lead impregnation has been carried out at the national level. The main objective of this work is to assess the exposure of the general Algerian population to lead This is a cross-sectional study with a descriptive aim, carried out over the entire Algerian national territory, on a population aged between 3 and 74 years old. It was carried out on a representative sample of households. The survey lasted three years. A questionnaire, a clinical examination and a blood sample were carried out for each individual. Analytical methods for the determination of lead in whole blood by ICP-MS were optimized and validated. Generalized linear regression models were used to determine the factors influencing lead levels measured in blood samples. The study population, spread over 39 wilayas and 121 districts, consists of 3674 individuals. The mean lead levels were 28.27 μg/L [27.38–29.17], the median was 22.22 μg/L, and the 95th percentile was 73.83 μg/L. The prevalence of elevated blood lead levels (≥100 μg/L) in the study population was 2.2%. A blood lead value of 75 μg/L was proposed as the Reference Exposure Value (REL) for Algeria. Blood lead levels were influenced by age, gender, wilaya of residence, dietary habits such as consumption of canned food and the way in which water is conserved for daily consumption. The use of kohl has been confirmed as a potential source of lead exposure especially among women. Recommendations have been issued to reduce the blood lead levels of the general population in Algeria in terms of limitation of lead in the sources of exposure, installation of an effective health monitoring system and also an adequate management of lead poisoning.

Relation between low birth weight and Maternal blood lead levels in Sidi Bel Abbes, Algeria: a case-control study

Background: Several epidemiological studies have investigated high lead (Pb) exposure and pregnancy outcomes,but few studies have investigated the association of low lead exposure and low birth weight (LBW). The aims of this study were to estimate the maternal blood lead levels (BLL), to identify determinants for BLL among parturient woman and to evaluate the association of maternal BLL andLBW. Methods: From July 2017 to February 2018, we carried out a case control study in the genecology and obstetrics hospital of Sidi Bel Abbes, Algeria. Lead concentrations in maternal blood samples collected at delivery were measured in 29mother who delivered term LBW cases group and 29mother who give birth to a term normal weight baby matched controls.Blood lead levels were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results: Mean maternal BLLwere higher among normal groups than in mothers of LBW, but this difference was not significant (23,076 ±16,120, versus 18,086 ± 6,641 ug/l p=0.247).Our results indicate that the mean lead level was nothigher in LBW neonates, and the whole blood lead was not related to the birth weight. In addition,there was interaction of daily kohl use and maternal BLL. Conclusion:This study suggeststhat maternal BLL was not significantly associated with LBW. Mothers with daily use of kohl during pregnancy were more likely to have elevate blood lead concentrations.
 Keywords: case-control study, low birth weight, Algeria, lead, kohl.

Blood Lead Levels of Children Using Traditional Indian Medicine and Cosmetics: A Feasibility Study.

BackgroundTraditional Indian cosmetics and Ayurvedic medicines may contain lead. Previous studies have shown a relationship between eye cosmetic use (kohl) in children and elevated blood lead levels (BLLs) > 10 µg/dL. However, an association between Ayurvedic use and elevated BLLs in children is unknown and understudied.MethodsWe assessed the feasibility of collecting BLLs in children attending Ayurvedic outpatient settings in India. Our pilot study took place over 3 days in the summer of 2010 at a large public Ayurveda hospital and a small pediatric clinic in southern India. Using a trained interpreter, we administered a standardized questionnaire in Malayalam, assessing sociodemographics, Ayurvedic medicine use, kohl use, and other potential risk factors for lead exposure, to parents of pediatric outpatients. We also analyzed BLLs using a portable lead analyzer.ResultsThe study enrolled 29 children (mean age, 3.8 years). The mean BLL was 6.7 µg/dL (SD = 3.5; range, 3.5–20.2). Seventy-two percent of the children used Ayurvedic medicine in the past 2 years and 55% reported kohl use. Mean BLL of Ayurvedic users and nonusers was 6.2 µg/dL and 8.5 µg/dL, respectively (P = .08). Kohl users had a statistically significant higher BLL than nonusers (8.0 µg/dL vs 5.3 µg/dL, P = .03).ConclusionsIt is feasible to collect BLLs in pediatric Ayurvedic outpatient clinics in southern India. Collaborative relationships with community members and hospital staff were essential. Further research is needed to investigate Ayurveda and kohl use as risk factors for elevated lead burden among Indian children.

Blood Lead Levels in Children of Southwest Iran, Aged 2-6 Years and Associated Factors.

Lead is one of the toxic metals that can cause several complications in children. This study was conducted to determine Blood Lead Levels (BLLs) in healthy children and its association with individual and environmental factors. This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 262 healthy children aged 2-6 years in Shahrekord, Southwest Iran in 2013. After taking serum samples from the children, the checklists of effective environmental factors on lead toxicity were completed after interviewing the parents. BLLs were determined by ICP-MS. Data were analysed by descriptive and analytical statistics (chi-square and ANOVA) in SPSS 16. BLLs ranged 0.4-52.8 (mean: 6.9±7.9) ng/ml. BLL was significantly associated with father's education level, house colour damage, canned food use and soil eating (p<0.05), but not with age, gender, economic status, proximity to factory and kohl use (p>0.05). BLL can cause serious health risks for children in Shahrekord and is associated with certain risk factors. It is necessary to screen for these risk factors.

Chronic lead exposure by use of kohl, analysis of 45 Algerian samples

Chronic lead exposure by use of kohl, analysis of 45 Algerian samples

Kohl and surma eye cosmetics as significant sources of lead (Pb) exposure

Abstract Kohl (surma) is a traditional eye cosmetic used in the Middle East, India, Pakistan, and parts of Africa that often contains high levels of lead (Pb), a developmental neurotoxicant. Many researchers have called for stricter governmental regulations of kohl trade and quality control and improved public education regarding its hazards and some governments have adopted import controls and educational campaigns to alert users to the hazards of using Pb-­-containing kohl. However, users remain unaware of the hazards of kohl usage, and some authorities minimize its potential danger. In this review, we summarize available data from the peer-­-reviewed literature on prevalence and attitudes regarding kohl use, Pb content of kohl samples from many sources, potential routes of entry of Pb into the body from kohl, and epidemiologic evidence that kohl is a source of Pb exposure in infants and women. Chemical analyses show that kohl has a wide range of formulae, with some containing PbS as the principal ingredient and others based on carbon and often Pb-­-free. Ocular, dermal, or gastrointestinal routes of entry of Pb into the body from kohl had been insufficiently studied to rule any of them out. The preponderance of epidemiologic evidence supports the conclusion that Pb-­-based kohl is associated with increased PbB in women who use kohl and their children.

Association between blood lead levels and environmental exposure among Saudi schoolchildren in certain districts of Al-Madinah

IntroductionBoth occupational and environmental exposures to lead remain a serious problem in many developing and industrializing countries. When humans are exposed to high levels of lead, there is damage to almost all organs and organ systems (most importantly, the central nervous system, kidneys, and blood), which often culminates in death.ObjectiveTo estimate the prevalence of blood lead levels (BLLs) and to identify the sources of environmental exposure and potential risk factors for elevated BLLs among Saudi schoolchildren.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to May 2010. The study population included 557 Saudi school students of both sexes. A multistage random sampling technique was used. Information about socioeconomic status, house and school construction, and parents’ education and employment was collected using questionnaires. Lead was analyzed in a blood sample using an atomic absorption technique and hemoglobin was measured using a Sysmex hematological analyzer.ResultsThe mean BLL was 4.94 ± 3.38 μg/dL (range 0.45–26.3 μg/dL). A total of 19% had BLLs <1.0 μg/dL, 16% had BLLs <2.5 μg/dL, 15% had BLLs <5.0 μg/dL, 20% had BLLs <7.5 μg/dL, 25% had BLLs <10.0 μg/dL, and about 6% had BLLs >10.0 μg/dL. Analysis of odds by controlling all risk factors (adjusted odds ratio [OR]) that affect BLLs (≥10 μg/dL) indicated that using cosmetics (OR = 18.5, confidence interval [CI] = 14.4–19.8), putting colored toys in mouth (OR = 15.7, CI = 3.6–16.2), eating canned food (OR = 9.8, CI = 7.0–10.1), and using newspaper during food preparation (OR = 7.6, CI = 6.3–8.2) are risk factors. There were significant correlations between BLLs and family habits (r = 0.225, P = 0.000), personal habits (r = 0.321, P = 0.000), eating habits (r = 0.128, P = 0.002) and school building characteristics (r = 0.469, P = 0.000). There was a significant correlation between BLLs and anemia in age group 6 < 12 years (P = 0.000) and age group 12 to less than 18 years, among males (P = 0.000) and females (P = 0.041).ConclusionThe BLLs of children are affected by multiple factors. Female students have higher BLLs and lower hemoglobin concentration than males. The possible sources of lead exposure were use of toothpaste, use of kohl, putting colored toys in the mouth, use of both canned food and canned juice, use of lip gloss in females, and different methods of handling newspaper while preparing food.

Intoxication saturnine provoquée par l’usage prolongé de khôl, une cause sous-estimée dans les pays francophones

Use of kohl (called surma in India and Pakistan) as an eye cosmetic is very common, especially among women, children, and babies, not only in North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Egypt), but also in the Near East and the Middle East, as well in India and Pakistan. This practice has now become widespread in European countries and North America. The cultural custom is very old and has been in use in Egypt since the Ancient Empire. In a great number of kohls available on the free market, lead sulfide is the main component and the very high lead concentration is a risk, particularly for women and children. We report the observation of a case of lead poisoning in a young Moroccan woman caused by prolonged use of a kohl and provide a review of the published literature. This case study should draw the attention of ophthalmologists in French-speaking areas to a public health problem, largely ignored, although real, considering the high lead concentrations found in the majority of kohls. Actions such as prohibition (importation and sale of eye cosmetics made of lead sulfide) have proved to be inadequate. Appropriate educational campaigns directed toward populations using eye cosmetics will be more effective over the long term.

A Comparative Study of Lead, Cadmium, Zinc and Selenium Concentration in Pregnant and Aborted Woman

Lead and cadmium can cause severe acute and chronic health effects including reproductive effects. Pregnant women are among the vulnerable populations. So, the aim of this study was to assess if these metals have a role in cases of repeated abortion. Blood lead, cadmium and serum zinc and selenium concentrations were determined in 40 women complaining of repeated abortion as compared with 24 pregnant women (control). Blood lead and cadmium levels were significantly higher in cases of repeated abortion than those of the control group whereas serum zinc and selenium were significantly lower. The levels of lead and cadmium were also determined in abortuses of the studied cases where they were found to be significantly correlated to their blood levels of lead and cadmium. The difference between lead levels in cases and control were significantly related to risk factors as use of kohl or lead glazed ceramics, coffee or canned food consumption, exposure to smoking, husband's occupation and anaemia. While, cadmium levels were significantly related to risk factors as canned food consumption, husband's occupation, exposure to smoking and anaemia. In conclusion, routine estimation of blood lead and cadmium must be mandatory in cases of repeated abortion. Zinc and selenium supplementation may have a protective effect as they reduce absorption of lead and cadmium.

Perceptions of eye health in schools in Pakistan

BackgroundResearch exploring children's and their teachers' perceptions of eye health is lacking. This paper reports for the first time on perceptions of primary schoolchildren and their teachers of healthy and diseased eyes, things that keep eyes healthy and damage them, and what actions to be taken in case of an eye injury.MethodsUsing draw and write technique, 160 boys and girls (9–12 years old) attending four primary schools in Abbottabad district, northern Pakistan, were invited to draw pictures in response to a set of semi-structured questions and then label them. Sixteen teachers who were currently teaching the selected students were interviewed one-on-one.ResultsAnalysis of text accompanying 800 drawings and of the interview scripts revealed that most children and teachers perceived healthy eyes to be those which could see well, and diseased eyes to be those which have redness, watering, dirty discharge, pain, and itching; or those which have "weak eyesight" and blindness. Among things that students and teachers thought damage the eyes included sun, television, and sharp pointed objects, particularly pencils. Teachers noted that children with eye problems "have difficulty seeing the blackboard well", "screw up their eyes", and "hold their books too close".ConclusionWe conclude that schoolchildren and their teachers had a good knowledge of eye health, but many of them had serious misconceptions e.g., use of kohl, medicines and eye drops keeps eyes healthy. Kohl is an important source of lead and can reduce children's intelligence even at low blood levels. Health education in schools must take into account children's existing knowledge of and misconceptions about various aspects of eye health. Such steps if taken could improve the relevance of eye health education to schoolchildren.

Kohl (surma): a toxic traditional eye cosmetic study in Saudi Arabia

The use of kohl (surma) as eyeliner is a popular practice in Saudi Arabia and people firmly believe that it is safe to use. A total of 107 kohl samples (branded and unbranded) were collected from different regions of Saudi Arabia, and analysed for the presence of lead. In addition, aluminium and antimony levels were also determined. Lead levels up to 53% were detected in some kohl preparations, and some samples were found to contain camphor and menthol. The blood analyses of regular kohl users revealed a high lead concentration and relatively low haemoglobin levels. Due to the health risk, an official public awareness campaign is suggested to encourage the use of lead-free kohl.

Head and Neck Cancer in a Referral Center in Asir Region

This study looks at the incidence of head and neck cancer in the Southwest Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Asir Region). There were a total of 204 newly diagnosed patients seen at Asir Central Hospital between 1987 and 1992; 113 males and 91 females. All were Saudi patients. Frequency at various sites with reference to sex and age was determined and comparison with local and international published reports was made. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper in the Kingdom to look at head and neck cancer as a distinct entity. In this study, skin cancer was the most common among males followed by oral and pharyngeal cancers. Among females, thyroid cancer was the most common followed by skin and oral cancers. Some preventive measures are discussed.

Kohl-The Traditional Eyeliner: Use and Analysis

Kohl is a traditional powder-like mixture used as an eyeliner and to treat eye disease in many Middle and Far East countries. We studied kohl use among 360 individuals selected at random in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Kohl was used by 13% of males and 26% of females, especially the elderly and illiterate. Forty percent of females with children applied kohl to the eyes of their children during the first postnatal month. Analysis of five commercially available traditional kohl samples showed that some preparations have a high pH and a high lead concentration (88%), indicating that most preparations are lead-based rather than antimony-based. It is interesting to find that some kohl preparation have a weak antimicrobial effect against Streptococcus, Staphylococcus and Proteus species. The use of lead-based kohl is still a common and serious practice and should be discouraged, especially in children. The role of traditional kohl use in the pathogenesis of common ocular external diseases prevalent in Middle and Far East countries merits in investigation.

Is topical kohl ophthalmic application associated with neonatal aseptic or bacterial conjunctivitis?

Background: Aseptic conjunctivitis is a recognized type of neonatal conjunctivitis which is commonly attributed to noninfective etiological agents such as chemicals, among which prophylactics used in the prevention of ophthalmia neonatorum (ON) are themselves well documented agents of aseptic neonatal conjunctivitis. In Nigeria, routine use of prophylactics in the prevention of ON remains uncommon. However, certain ophthalmic care practices with potentials for aseptic ON abound in the various communities. This study was, therefore, undertaken with a view of evaluating the role of kohl in conjunctivitis among newborns aged 0-28 days. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 123 neonates who presented with features of ON to the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria was conducted. Information regarding the use of kohl and the results of microscopy, culture and sensitivity evaluation of their conjunctival swabs and scrapings were extracted among others. Results: Thirty-one (25.2%) of the reviewed 123 neonates who presented with features of ON had sterile cultures of specimens obtained from their conjunctivae. Fifty-eight (47.2%) had kohl applied, while none received prophylaxis for ON. Kohl application was not significantly associated with culture isolation (P = 0.41). Conclusion: There was the prevalent use of kohl in newborns with ophthalmia. The study did not find enough evidence associating use of kohl in the etiology of ON and, therefore, calls for more extensive studies to investigate the possible relationship to enable informed policy articulation on its use or otherwise in the newborns.