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. 2024 Nov 29;4(1):100127.
doi: 10.1016/j.eehl.2024.10.003. eCollection 2025 Mar.

A more scientific blood lead reference value urgently needs to be updated in China: From a national and international insight

Xiaoli Duan  1 , Suzhen Cao  1 , Jiacheng Guan  1 , Ligang Hu  2 , Chengye Sun  3 , Chonghuai Yan  4 , Xiaoli Zhao  5 , Fengchang Wu  5
Affiliations

A more scientific blood lead reference value urgently needs to be updated in China: From a national and international insight

Xiaoli Duan et al. Eco Environ Health. .

Abstract

Although blood lead levels (BLLs) in children have significantly decreased compared to two decades ago, incidents of lead poisoning and elevated BLLs among children continue to occur frequently. This trend suggests that China's current hygienic regulations are not sufficiently effective in managing children's lead exposure. This study analyzed the revision processes of blood lead reference values (BLRVs) in children from various countries, the current BLLs and their changing trends in China, potential sources of lead pollution and exposure, the requirements for managing and protecting children's health, as well as the national measures and strategies for lead emission management and control. The study also explored the necessity and urgency of updating China's BLRVs in children. Based on the specific conditions in China, a proposed BLRV of 50 μg/L was deemed more reasonable and was suggested for implementation, with the potential to yield substantial economic benefits through improved IQ outcomes should the updated BLRV be adopted.

Keywords: Blood lead level; Blood lead reference value; Children; Lead exposure; Update.

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Conflict of interest statement

The views expressed in this manuscript are solely of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the funding agencies. Additionally, we declare that we have no financial and personal relationships with other organizations that can inappropriately influence our work.

Figures

Image 1
Graphical abstract
Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Blood lead levels and its reference value in children from different countries.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Estimated atmospheric lead emission in China from 1990 to 2030.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
The comparison of sources of atmospheric lead emissions from 1990 to 2030.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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