The study of correlation between Intellectual Impairment and Blood Lead Level among 6 to 8 years old Children in Ulaanbaatar

Abstract

Background

Lead poisoning is one of the major public health problem in developing countries. Lead is neurotoxic and young children are at particular high risk for exposure. According to previous research done in Mongolia in 2009, the average blood lead level (BLL) among children in Ulaanbaatar was 16.54±9.50 ug/dl, which is higher than the WHO's recommended level (>=10 mg/dl).

Material and Methods

We measured BLL in 300 children at 6 to 8 years old of age and administered the IQ test which standartized by the Mongolian Ministry of Health. We used LeadCare II Analyzer Kit apparatus to measure BLL in children from 8 selected primary schools in Ulaanbaatar. The relation between IQ and BLL estimated with the use multivariable linear and nonlinear mixed models, with quality of the home environment, and other potential confounders. SPSS 19.0 is used for statistical analysis.

Results

The BLL is associated with IQ scores in children living in UB. BLL in children is increased from last parameter (mentioned above). We identified some potential confounders in UB such as air pollution and petrol station. They are significantly associated with BLL in Children.

Conclusion

Due to high exposure of lead in Ulaanbaatar the LeadCare II analyzer kit can be used for screen purpose. Our government has to make strategy to reduce lead sources and medical students need to promote and educate environmental health education to citizens.

Source of the lead exposure needs to be identified.