Presence of toxic heavy metals in the maternal blood: A gestational quantification

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. Evaluation of in utero exposure to environmental pollutants has been mainly achieved by using umbilical cord and/or maternal blood samples. The objective of this pilot project is to explore the presence of toxic heavy metals in the blood of pregnant women. 

• Research Project