Effects of environmental exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls and dioxins on cognitive abilities in Dutch children at 42 months of age

Objective: To study possible adverse effects of environmental exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and dioxins on cognitive functioning in young children. Methods: In a follow-up of the Dutch PCB/Dioxin study, cognitive abilities were assessed with the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children in 42-month-old children (n = 395). In a subgroup (n = 193) verbal comprehension was assessed with the Reynell Language Developmental Scales. Prenatal PCB exposure was estimated from the sum of PCBs 118, 138, 153, and 180 (Sigma PCB) in maternal plasma. Lactational exposure was assessed from breast milk PCB and dioxin concentrations, multiplied by the number of weeks of breast-feeding. Current PCB body burden was estimated from Sigma PCB in 42-month-old plasma samples. Results: After adjustment was done for covariables, maternal Sigma PCB was associated with lower scores on the overall cognitive and sequential and simultaneous processing scales of the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (all P <.05). The highest exposed group (Sigma CPCB greater than or equal to 3 mu g/L) scored 4 points lower on all 3 scales of the K-ABC when compared with the lowest exposed group (Sigma PCB < 1.5 mu g/L). Both lactational exposure and current exposure to PCBs and dioxins were not related to 42-month cognitive performance. Conclusions: Ln utero exposure to "background" PCB concentrations associated with poorer cognitive functioning in preschool children. Children Of mothers at the upper end of exposure are especially at risk. Therefore maternal PCB body burden should be reduced, and breast-feeding should not be discouraged.