Lead exposure: effects in Israel.

Blood lead levels and parallel ambient lead exposure levels were studied in selected Israeli population groups. The studies were prompted by newly emerging findings on subtle renal, hematologic and neurobehavioral effects of low levels of exposure to lead in both children and adults. There was a high correlation (r = 0.89) between individual blood lead levels in the groups studied and free erythroprotoporphyrin, a measure of the toxic effect of lead on hemoglobin synthesis. Hemoglobin depression was weakly associated (r = 0.66) with rises in blood lead levels. Blood lead and free erythroprotoporphyrin determinations can be jointly used in screening for lead toxicity and iron deficiency. Our data suggest that the Jerusalem population at large is experiencing lead exposure in the range of rural USA levels, but that in Israel there are several foci of medically significant exposure requiring a comprehensive approach to control of occupational and environmental hazards. Furthermore, children of workers from high-exposure locations may face an additional risk.