Factors associated with lead exposure in Oaxaca, Mexico

Lead intoxication risks were studied in a community of ceramic folk art workers in Oaxaca, a southern state of Mexico, where the manufacture of low-temperature lead ceramic ware is a family tradition and often the only source of income. Variables such as household characteristics, occupation, and lead exposure risk factors were explored. Study participants' mean blood lead concentration was 43.8 mug/dl (range = 8.4-99.6 mug/dl), which is over the WHO guideline of 40 mug/dl for removing workers from exposure and is the concentration over which renal damage is accelerated. Best predictors for high blood lead concentrations by multivariable regression analysis were: occupation (P < 0.0001), gender (P = 0.0002), and the use of glazed stoneware (P < 0.0001). This model explained 18% of blood lead variation among the study group. Exposure appears to be primarily associated with antiquated pottery manufacturing techniques and the high degree of contamination prevailing at the production sites, which in most cases are their living quarters. This consequently affects the lead levels of the entire community.