Assessment of prevalence of elevated blood lead levels and risk factors among children and pregnant women in Bihar, India

While modeled estimates and studies in contaminated areas indicate high lead exposure among children in Bihar, India, local data on lead exposure in the child population is limited. This study aimed to characterize lead exposure and assess potential sources of lead exposure among a state-representative sample of children and their pregnant mothers residing in Bihar. Blood samples were collected from 697 children under five and 55 pregnant women from eight districts in Bihar. Household demographics, home environment, behavior, and nutrition information were collected through computer-assisted personal interviews with primary caregivers. Over 90% of children and 80% of pregnant mothers had elevated blood lead levels. Industrial activities, pica behavior of eating soil, and cosmetic use were potential sources of lead exposure. These high percentages of elevated blood lead levels indicate the urgent need for a comprehensive lead poisoning prevention strategy in Bihar.

Published July 9, 2024

Sign up to receive our monthly Research Roundup email, which offers a selection of new public health research from major journals.