School performance and behavioural features of children with different blood lead levels

Abstract

Lead is a cumulative toxicant that affects multiple body systems and is particularly harmful to young children. Lead can affect children’s brain development, resulting in reduced intelligence quotient (IQ), behavioural changes such as reduced attention span and increased antisocial behaviour, and reduced educational attainment [1]. The purpose of this investigation was to study the indicators of cognitive and behavioural sphere according to the subjective data of Ukrainian children depending on the level of lead in their blood. 81 children of a random sample aged from 7 to 15 years were examined. Determination of lead was carried out in heparinized venous blood by the method of atomic absorption spectrometry with electro-thermal atomization. The state of the cognitive and behavioural sphere was assessed using survey.