Risk of lead exposure from wild game consumption from cross-sectional studies in Madre de Dios, Peru

Background Studies have shown elevated blood lead levels (BLL) in residents of remote communities in the Amazon, yet sources of lead exposure are not fully understood, such as lead ammunition consumed in wild game. Methods Data was collected during two cross-sectional studies that enrolled 307 individuals in 26 communities. Regression models with community random effects were used to evaluate risk factors for BLLs, including diet, water source, smoking, sex, age, and indigenous status. The All-Ages Lead Model (AALM) from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was used to estimate background and dose from wild game consumption. Findings Indigenous status and wild game consumption were associated with increased BLLs. Indigenous participants had 2.52 mu g/dL (95% CI: 1.95-3.24) higher BLLs compared to non-indigenous. Eating wild game was associated with a 1.41 mu g/dL (95% CI: 1.20-1.70) increase in BLLs. Two or more portions per serving were associated with increased BLLs of 1.66 mu g/dL (95% CI: 1.10-2.57), compared to smaller servings. Using the AALM, we estimate background lead exposures to be 20 mu g/day with consumption of wild game contributing 500 mu g/meal. Lastly, we found a strong association between BLLs and mercury exposure. Interpretation Consumption of wild game hunted with lead ammunition may pose a common source of lead exposure in the Amazon. Communities that rely on wild game and wild fish may face a dual burden of exposure to lead and mercury, respectively. Copyright (C) 2022 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Automated summary

This study investigates blood lead levels (BLL) and sources of lead exposure in the Amazon region. The findings suggest that indigenous status and consumption of wild game are associated with increased BLLs. The use of lead ammunition in hunting wild game may serve as a common source of lead exposure in the Amazon. Additionally, communities relying on wild game and wild fish may face a dual burden of lead and mercury exposure.