According to a study just published in the Lancet Public Health, it is estimated that over 400,000 deaths every year in the United States are related to lead exposure, making it equal with the current threat from tobacco. Previous mortality estimates were about 10 times lower. Using data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, researchers looked at blood lead levels from 14,000 adults between 1988 and 1994 and followed the group for an average of 19 years.
After multivariable adjustment, baseline blood lead levels at the 90th percentile (6.7 µg/dL) were associated with higher risks for all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease mortality, and ischemic heart disease mortality, compared with levels at the 10th percentile (1.0 µg/dL).
If blood lead levels were reduced to 1.0 µg/dL or lower, the authors estimate that the rates of all-cause mortality could drop 18% (or 412,000 deaths annually), cardiovascular disease deaths could fall 29% (256,000 deaths), and ischemic heart disease deaths by 37% (185,000 deaths). The authors concluded by saying, “A comprehensive strategy to prevent deaths from cardiovascular disease should include efforts to reduce lead exposure.”
Comments: Standard blood tests are better for recent (acute) exposure to lead. To check for chronic (long-term) exposure, we use a specialized test called a Provoked Challenge Urine Test. In addition to lead, this test checks for the presence of other toxic metals, including mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. If high levels of any of these metals are found, we utilize intravenous chelation therapy to remove them from the body (click here).
