Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and environmental toxic metal exposure in the United Arab Emirates

J Trop Pediatr. 2011 Dec;57(6):457-60. doi: 10.1093/tropej/fmq121. Epub 2011 Feb 6.

Abstract

No systematic studies have been carried out on the effects of toxic metals on childhood behavior in the Gulf Region including the UAE. The relationship between blood levels of heavy metals and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were explored in school-aged children of UAE and it was found that increased blood concentrations of lead (Pb), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) were significantly associated with ADHD. The findings suggest that monitoring for exposure to heavy metal levels and education on potential child health hazards related to them are indicated.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / blood
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / chemically induced*
  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Environmental Exposure / analysis
  • Environmental Pollutants / blood
  • Environmental Pollutants / toxicity*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Metals, Heavy / blood
  • Metals, Heavy / toxicity*
  • Odds Ratio
  • United Arab Emirates

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Environmental Pollutants
  • Metals, Heavy