Lead impregnation in blood donors in Algiers.

Abstract

Introduction: Lead exposure, even at low levels, can severely impact the neurological development of newborns, especially premature infants due to their low birth weight. Blood transfusion is an overlooked or unknown indirect exposure pathway.

Objective: To quantify blood lead levels among blood donors in Algiers.

Materials and methods: The study involved 484 donors from 16 transfusion centers in Algiers. A questionnaire assessed lead exposure sources, and blood samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS) to measure lead levels, with a decision threshold of 10 μg/L. The critical threshold for premature newborns has been set at 18 μg/L in the donor.

Discussion: Thirty percent of donors had measurable blood lead levels, with 17.98% exceeding the critical threshold of 18 μg/L. No donors under 20 had measurable lead levels. Recent home renovations and kohl use were linked to higher lead levels. Occupational exposure, such as a car bodyworker with a lead level of 163.28 μg/L, poses a risk for low birth weight newborns receiving transfusions.

Conclusion: Selection criteria for newborn transfusions should limit lead exposure, favoring young donors without recent lead exposure. Testing blood lead levels in donors could improve neonatal transfusion safety. Further research is required to refine critical thresholds and improve screening protocols.