The Medical Journal of Basrah University

Abstract

ABSTRACT
To determine lead exposure among in children of Basrah a total of 100 deciduous whole teeth were collected from 100
children. Teeth and blood were analyzed for lead concentrations using atomic absorption spectrophotometry and
ALAD activity by colorimeter. Children were between 5 and 15 years old (56 males and 44 females). The study period
extended from January 2005 till the end of May 2006. Laboratory investigations included measuring teeth and blood
lead levels and ALAD activity, A questionnaire was used to gather information on each person, such as age, sex, place
where the person lives, the mean blood lead level (BLL), deciduous teeth lead level (DLL) and aminolevulinic acid
dehydrotase (ALAD) were 11.42±2.7μg /dl, 7.6±3.93 μg/g and 202±19.74 U/ml RBC respectively. BLL, DLL ALAD
activity was significantly different according to the age, sex and urban areas. There was a significant correlation
(P<0.01) between all parameters (age, BLL and DLL and ALAD) which is included in this study. In conclusion, the
levels of lead in deciduous teeth and blood serves as a dosimeter for lead exposure which originates from different
sources, also there were high correlation between BLL and DLL and ALAD.