Evaluation of lead levels in children with chronic constipation

Abstract

Objectives. This study aimed to assess blood and hair lead levels (BLL and HLL) in children with chronic constipation and compare them to healthy children; and investigated lead exposure’s role in the etiology of constipation. It also explored the correlation between BLL and HLL. Study Design. The study included 84 constipated children aged 3-18 years as the case group and an equal number of constipation-free children as controls. Organic diseases were ruled out through history-taking, physical exams and laboratory tests. Blood and hair samples were collected and analyzed for lead levels using standardized methods. Results. The constipated children group had significantly higher BLL (3.66 µg/dL) compared to the control group (1.61 µg/dL) with no significant HLL difference. Additionally, 48.8% of constipated children exceeded the reference value of 3.5 μg/dL, in contrast to 4.8% of the control group. BLL was unaffected by gender and age, while HLL were higher in girls and low ages. No significant correlation existed between BLL and HLL. The age of the housing showed a positive correlation with higher BLL and HLL. Lead exposure sources like drinking water, home renovation history, parental smoking, or nearby industrial facilities showed no significant relationships with lead levels. Conclusions. Understanding the constipation-lead exposure link is crucial for prevention and intervention. HLL may vary with gender and age due to external lead particles, which is why BLL continues to be a more reliable measure. Healthcare providers should remember to investigate lead exposure risk factors in constipation patients and test BLL when necessary.