Activities at risk of lead exposure and lead poisoning in children of travellers? families in charente, France

Background: -A study to assess lead exposure of traveller children aged from 9 months to 18 years old was conducted in Charente-France between 2017 and 2019.Methods: A face-to-face questionnaire was administered to each participating family (N = 78). Blood samples were collected, and in case of lead poisoning, an environmental survey of soil, dust and water samples was also performed.Results: -Among the 100 children, they were 39 girls and 61 boys. Among them, 40 suffered from lead poisoning (Blood Lead Level >= 50 mu g/L). Being a boy aged between 11 and 14 years old, and participating in lead exposure at-risk activities were significantly associated with higher mean blood lead level.Conclusion: -The high levels of lead detected advocate the reinforcement of lead poisoning screening for all children in the traveller population.

Automated summary

A study conducted in Charente-France assessed lead exposure in traveller children aged 9 months to 18 years. Questionnaires and blood samples were collected, and it was found that 40 children suffered from lead poisoning. Boys aged 11-14 and participating in at-risk activities had higher blood lead levels. The study suggests reinforcing lead poisoning screening for all traveller children.