Cognitive development of lead-exposed children near Borella junction

Objective To study cognitive development of children
exposed to lead in Colombo.

Design A cross-sectional descriptive study.

Setting City of Colombo, near Borella junction.

Study population 50 children with blood lead levels
ranging from 1.6-13.5 ,g/dl.

Method Risk factors for lead exposure were assessed
using an interviewer administered questionnaire.
Development and cognitive abilities of the children
were assessed.

Results Close proximity to traffic congested highways
and surface water drains were common to entire cohort.
Purchase of food from roadside vendors was found in all
children. 78% children residing in area >10 years and
66% children attending school for >5 years had a below
average developmental score. Blood lead levels
correlated significantly with increasing age and length
of stay in this area.

Sri Lanka Journal of Child Health, 2003; 32: 15-7

(Key words: Cognitive development, lead-exposed children, Colombo)

doi: 10.4038/sljch.v32i1.738