Assessment of Ferritin and Lead Levels in Children Living in an Informal Urban Settlement in Kenya

• Main Authors: Geoffrey Omuse MMed, PhD (Author), Daniel Maina MMed (Author), Maureene Ondayo PhD (Author), Syama Sinuff MRCPCH (Author), Stanley Onyango PhD (Author), Alex Mugo MSc (Author), Pauline Samia MMed, MPhil (Author), William Macharia MMed, MSc (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: SAGE Publishing, 2024-08-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

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 ( r s (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.

Item Description

2333-794X
10.1177/2333794X241263162