Lead sources of human exposure in Brazil

Abstract

As result of increased environmental contamination, the interest on the accumulation of heavy metals in the human body and its harmful effects has increased. Some metals, such as lead, are non-essential elements and exert toxic effects on biological system. Despite the control measures established by law, acute and chronic intoxication by lead still happen in Brazil. Some sources of lead exposure are well known, such as industrial activities like mining and factories for batteries recycling. However, other sources, although common, are completely unknown by population. This article aims to present a review of past and current literature on the various lead sources of human exposure in Brazil.