General

Lead concentrations in Canadians drop dramatically, study finds

But most Canadians have detectable concentrations of mercury and BPA

Blood lead concentrations among Canadians have fallen dramatically since they were last measured 30 years ago, according to a new federal study, though 91 per cent of Canadians aged six to 79 were found to have bisphenol A in their urine. The Canadian Health Measures Survey, conducted between 2007 and 2009, also found 88 per cent had detectable concentrations of mercury in their blood. The study said lower household income, being born outside Canada, living in a dwelling at least 50 years old, current or former smoking, and drinking alcohol at least once a week were associated with higher lead levels. The survey marks the first time bisphenol A concentrations were measured nationally, and found the mean concentration of 1.16 micrograms per litre in participants’ urine consistent with results from international studies. The study found the highest concentrations of bisphenol A in children and teenagers.

CBC News

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