Hair mercury levels of Japanese women during the period 1881 to 1968

Abstract

The hair samples of Japanese females during the period from 1881 to 1968 were obtained from various localities of the central area of Japan. Inorganic mercury levels were elevated in unwashed hair samples from prewar periods, especially during 1920s , while elevation of organic mercury levels was conspicuous during 1960s. The increase of inorganic mercury levels in samples from the 1920s is suspected to be due to mercury contamination of hair cosmetics, and increased organic mercury levels in the hair from the 1960s can be explained by active fish consumption.

Hair Mercury Levels in U.S. Children and Women of Childbearing Age: Reference Range Data from NHANES 1999–2000

“…Hair growth and analysis studies assessed hair growth rates and the relationship between MeHg intake and hair levels (Clarkson 1992; Grandjean et al 1994). Hair growth averages 1–1.5 cm per month and provides a time record of previous Hg exposure depending on the length of the hair (Suzuki et al 1984). Approximately 80% of hair Hg is MeHg (Cernichiari et al 1995; Phelps et al 1980).…”