Cognitive development of lead-exposed children near Borella junction

Abstract

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 µg/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.