Infants' Exposure to Toxic Trace Elements in Teethers.

Abstract

Infants are particularly vulnerable to exposure to toxic trace elements due to their developmental stage and behaviors such as mouthing and chewing on toys. Chemical exposure to heavy metals in infants' toys is a significant concern as it poses a threat to their health and well-being. Therefore, quality control measures are essential to prevent infants' exposure to potentially harmful metals. This study aimed to assess the presence of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) in infants' teethers and evaluate potential health risks associated with their use. Eighteen teethers were analyzed for heavy metal content using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS). Results showed varying concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Hg in the teethers, with none exceeding the safety limits for these heavy metals set by regulatory bodies such as ASTM F-963 and EN 71. Furthermore, calculated exposure levels, including Chronic Daily Intake (CDI) and Lifetime Average Daily Dose (LADD), as well as risk assessments covering Hazard Quotient (HQ), Hazard Index (HI), Margin of Exposure (MOE), and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR), indicated that the overall health risks associated with teethers' use were non-existent. These findings highlight the importance of stringent regulations and ongoing monitoring of heavy metal levels in infants' products to ensure their safety.