Comparison of three models for predicting blood lead levels in children: episodic exposures to lead.
A threshold blood lead level in children below which no adverse effects occur has not been identified (CDC, 1991), Therefore, the traditional risk assessment method of relating dose to a reference dose (RfD) for noncancer effects is not applicable to lead. To assess whether environmental lead concentrations may result in adverse health effects, predicted blood lead levels are compared to a blood lead level of 10 micrograms/dL, the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention level of concern. Children's blood lead levels may be predicted with one of at least three models: USEPA'S Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic Model (IEUBK), and models by O'Flaherty (1993) and Carlisle and Wade (1992). This paper explores the utility of these models for predicting blood lead levels in children, and discusses areas of uncertainty associated with the use of these models in evaluating episodic exposures. It is hoped that this discussion will stimulate interest further researching exposure and health effects from episodic contact with lead contaminated media.
Saphire Group, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA. Judy@Jesse.mts.jhu.edu
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Lakind
D002648:Child; D004781:Environmental Exposure; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D007854:Lead / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000097:blood*; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012016:Reference Values; D015203:Reproducibility of Results
D007854:Lead