Lead poisoning and asthma among low-income and African American children in Saginaw, Michigan

ObjectiveWe sought to ascertain whether asthmatic children are more likely to have elevated blood lead levels (EBLLs), BLLs≥10 μg/dL, than non-asthmatic children. Household risk factors associated with both lead and asthma were examined.MethodWe undertook a cross-sectional study involving children residing in mainly low-income and minority households in Michigan which were identified by the Statewide Systemic Tracking of Elevated Lead Levels and Remediation database (STELLAR) (n=356 children).ResultsOf the 356 index children, 19% had EBLLs and 15% were doctor-diagnosed asthmatic. After adjusting for confounders known to be related to lead poisoning and/or asthma, association remained between asthmatic children and EBLL children (AOR: 5.17; 95% CI (1.25–21.37)).ConclusionsThe results of our study show that asthmatic children are over 5 times more likely to have EBLLs than non-asthmatics (AOR: 5.17; 95% CI (1.25–21.37)). Intervention strategies designed to address lead poisoning prevention may be effective in reducing incidence of asthma. Further study is required.

Research Highlights
► Study suggests lead poisoning and asthma comorbidity may be common in low-income minority children.
► More than 19% of children enrolled in the study had an elevated blood lead level (EBLL).
► 3% were co-morbid with an EBLL and asthma.
► 15% were doctor-diagnosed asthmatic.
► Asthmatic children were 5 times more likely to have an EBLL than non-asthmatics.