Levels of lead and delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase activity in the blood of Greater S. Paulo (Brazil) population groups

Abstract

Blood lead levels (BPb) and delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase activity (delta-ALAD) were determined in three population groups in Greater S. Paulo (Brazil). The first group (A) had low environmental exposure to lead from mobile and stationary sources; the second (B) was exposed to mobile lead emitting sources; while the third gruop (C) was formed by people living near a lead recuperation plant. Each group was divided according to sex and smoking habits. The BPb of group C was significantly higher than that of groups A and B. Correlations between BPb and delta-ALAD, BPb and sex, and BPb and smoking habits were determined.