Lead Concentrations in the Blood of Residents of the Mineralized and Mining Environs

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Onyedika, G.O. | Nwankwo, C.S. | Ajaero, C. | Ejike, E.N. | Iwu, I.C.

Affiliations: Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 1526, Owerri, Nigeria | Department of Environmental Science, Abia State University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria

Note: [] Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: Lead ion concentration in blood samples of the hospitalized patients of the mineralized area of Ishiagu environs, were assayed. Ishiagu has lead and zinc deposits and active mining of these minerals. Lead concentration in the blood of selected hospital patients range between 0.40 and 2.00 ppm. The lead (Pb) concentration varied with age. Residents within the age of 5-20 years have lead concentration of 0.40-1.00 ppm while age within 21-60 years have lead concentration of 1.00-2.00 ppm. A correlation between length of exposure and age was established. A group within 33-44 years has the highest lead concentration in their blood.

Keywords: Lead, blood, concentration, age, mineralized

Journal: Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, vol. 6, no. 4, pp. 103-106, 2009