Lead levels in women at delivery at the Muhimbili National Hospital: a public health problem.

Lead poisoning is a global health problem but unrecognized in African countries. Umbilical Cord Lead levels can be used to determine community exposure to lead. At delivery, 150 women were recruited for cord blood lead. A prevalence of 10% beyond the accepted range was found. Cord blood levels ranged from 0.1-18.1 microg/dl, with a mean of 4.1 microg/dl. There was no association between lead levels and pregnancy outcomes in terms of low birth weight and pre-term delivery. There was a weak association between lead poisoning and living in a painted house and use of tap water (OR = 1.4). There was no association between lead poisoning and use of facial cosmetics. Living near heavy traffic was more associated with increased cord blood lead levels.