Lead toxicity

Calcium supplementation in pregnancy

The majority of maternal lead (>95%) is stored in the bone; mobilisation of cumulative maternal lead into the circulation represents an endogenous source of exposure that may pose a significant hazard for the fetus and infant.[78]Ettinger AS, Hu H, Hernandez-Avila M. Dietary calcium supplementation to lower blood lead levels in pregnancy and lactation. J Nutr Biochem. 2007 Mar;18(3):172-8. https://www.doi.org/10.1016/j.jnutbio.2006.12.007 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17296490?tool=bestpractice.com Maternal dietary calcium supplementation reduces lead levels when administered during pregnancy and lactation. The World Health Organization recommends calcium supplementation for pregnant women with a blood lead concentration of ≥0.24 micromoles/L (5 micrograms/dL), who has or is likely to have inadequate calcium intake.[71]World Health Organization. Guideline for clinical management of exposure to lead. 2021 [internet publication]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK575284 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/34787987?tool=bestpractice.com Management strategies for lead toxicity during pregnancy need to be developed.