Lead exposure, gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia: A systematic review of cause and effect

The association between lead and hypertension in adults was first identified in the early 1980's and it has since been proposed that lead may also have a role in gestational hypertension (GH). This systematic review investigates whether lead may be associated with the development of GH or pre-eclampsia. MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science were searched from inception to August 2011, using the terms: blood lead levels, pregnancy, pregnancy induced hypertension, gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia. Nine papers were found. Positive associations between lead and GH or pre-eclampsia were found in six studies. The development of GH or pre-eclampsia may serve as a signal to assess blood lead concentrations in pregnant women, as even low lead concentrations have been shown to negatively impact the neurodevelopment and cognitive abilities of children. Adequate calcium intake throughout the pregnancy and lactation period may assist with reducing lead exposure levels.