Human lead exposure has many sources. Relative importance of these sources varies widely according to geographic regions and human lifestyle. The impact of lead exposure on health has been well studied and public health interventions have been conducted.
Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate current prevalence of lead burden in neonates, and seek for sources of maternal and fetal intoxication.
Population and methods: A prospective multicentre study was conducted by the "Réseau périnatal 92" on a population of pregnant women attending 3 maternal wards in the north of 'Hauts-de-Seine' department in France. Between December 2003 and May 2004, a total of 1021 pregnant women were included. All patients signed an informed consent before participating in the study. Cord blood samples were collected at delivery for lead measurements.
Results: The mean cord blood lead concentration was 23.2 microg/l. Eighteen neonates over 1021 (1.8%) had lead levels above 100 microg/l. An environmental query was conducted by the social and public health office of the department (DDASS), and data were collected regarding the state of the housing and the lifestyle of the concerned family. Main sources of lead intoxication were 'tagine' food plates in 83.3% of cases, 'khôl' powder (used as eyeliner) in 88.9% of cases and substandard housings in 22.2% of cases. A specialized paediatric follow-up for the 18 neonates was performed.
Conclusion: With the exception of substandard housing (old lead painting), other sources of lead intoxication were discovered: 'tagine' plates and 'khôl' powder. Almost all of these products came from Morocco. A public health intervention would be able to inform the population about these yet unknown sources of lead intoxication.