Impact of blood lead level on haemoglobin and intelligence among school children living near lead based industries

Abstract

Blood lead level and its impact on haemoglobin and intelligence among school children near lead based industries, and to supplement them with a nutritious food for its effect, were studied. Blood was withdrawn from 120 children (9-12 years) and lead was estimated by Lead Care Analyzer Kit and haemoglobin by auto analyser. Culture Fair Non-verbal Test was used to assess the Intelligence Quotient. After pre-test, the experimental group (n = 60) were given nutritional supplementation for 3 months and education on hygiene measures, while the control group (n = 60) did not receive them. Food supplementation and education significantly decreased the lead level in the experimental group (8.8±0.5 to 6.9±0.4, µg/dL, mean ± SE) but not in the control group. The intelligence score improved in the experimental group but not in the control group. A negative correlation was observed between the lead level and intelligence. No improvement was observed in the haemoglobin. This study shows that the blood lead level in children near lead based industries is high and is negatively correlated with intelligence. Supplementation of nutritious food and education on hygiene measures have decreased the lead level and increased the intelligence score.