Relationships of maternal blood lead and disorders of pregnancy to neonatal birthweight
Kaul, P.P.; Srivastava, R.; Srivastava, S.P.; Kamboj, M.; Chand, S.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology 44(6): 321-323
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0145-6296 PMID: 12458631 Document Number: 549929
Transient complications of pregnancy (anemia, toxemia, proteinuria, arterial hypertension and hyperemesis) were studied in pregnant women from the general population reporting to local hospitals. Comparison of blood lead levels (PbB) was made between women with normal pregnancies and those with complications. Significantly higher PbB were found in women with pregnancy complications as compared to those with normal pregnancies. Increments in the PbB levels were accompanied by statistically significant decrements in neonate birthweights. Complications of pregnancy may be induced by higher PbB and may also compound the adverse effects of decrements of neonate birthweights.