Comparative assessment of heavy metals present in amniotic fluid and meconium: Bangladesh perspectives

With the worldwide increase of industrial pollution and manmade or natural combustion activities, we are all exposed either voluntarily or involuntarily to certain environmental pollutants such as heavy metals, organic hydrocarbons, and pesticides, from various sources. The influence of these pollutants on public health has been increasingly acknowledged, especially during the period of growth and development. Prenatal life is considered to be the most sensitive stage of human development due to the high degree of fetal cellular division and differentiation. Also, due to differences compared to the adult in many biochemical pathways, the fetus is highly susceptible to teratogens, typically at low exposure levels that do not harm the mother. This may lead to chronic diseases either immediately or later in life. The objective of this project is to explore the presence of toxic heavy metals in the amniotic fluid and meconium. The presence of heavy metals are analyzed during parturition and just after birth. A comparative study is conducted to observe the persistence of heavy metals in neonatal. Additionally, different associated factors were also investigated with elevated concentration of heavy metals.

• Research Project