Document Type
Article
Department
Pathology (East Africa)
Abstract
Background: Childhood lead exposure from recycling used lead-acid batteries (ULAB) in unregulated areas is a significant cause of lead toxicity, particularly in low and middle-income countries. This study aimed to assess the proportion of children with increased blood lead levels (BLLs) in an informal settlement where ULAB recycling occurs.
Methodology: This was a descriptive study conducted in Nairobi county, Kenya. Children aged 6 months to 7 years were recruited after obtaining written informed consent, completion of a questionnaire and collection of samples for complete blood count, ferritin, and lead analysis.
Results: Out of 215 children, 17 (8.0%) had BLLs ≥ 5 μg/dL. There was a weak negative correlation between BLLs and ferritin (rs(211) = −0.147, P = .032).
Conclusion: Our study confirms the presence of increased BLLs in children residing in the study area. Relevant authorities should legislate on safe ULAB disposal to protect the population from toxic effects.
Publication (Name of Journal)
Global Pediatric Health
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/2333794X241263162
Recommended Citation
Omuse, G.,
Maina, D.,
Ondayo, M.,
Onyango, S.,
Sinuff, S.,
Mugo, A.,
Samia, P.,
Macharia, W.
(2024). Assessment of ferritin and lead levels in children living in an informal urban settlement in Kenya. Global Pediatric Health, 11, 1-8.
Available at:
https://ecommons.aku.edu/eastafrica_fhs_mc_pathol/300
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License