Abstract
It is well known that lead (Pb) produces reduced haemoglobin (Hb) levels and risk of anemia when blood lead levels (BPb) are greater than 20 µg dL(-1). Two recent studies reported an increased risk of anemia in children with BPb between 10-20 µg dL(-1), but few studies examined the association between Hb levels or risk of anemia and BPb under 10 µg dL(-1). In the present study this association was examined using data of 140 preschool children from a larger prospective cohort study in China. Data showed that compared to children with BPb <5 µg dL(-1), children with BPb between 7.5-10 µg dL(-1) had significantly lower Hb levels, but there were no marked differences for other groups. A linear regression model showed a negative relationship between BPb and Hb levels after controlling for age, gender, height, weight, and iron (Fe) deficiency. This finding, although limited by a small sample size, suggests it may be important to examine Pb-induced hemosynthesis effect at concentrations less than 10 µg dL(-1).