engleski

USE OF HUMAN MILK IN THE ASSESSMENT OF CROATIAN POPULATION EXPOSURE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINANTS

Pregnant and lactating women and infants are vulnerable population groups for adverse effects of toxic metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) due to their high nutritional needs. The World Health Organization (WHO) promotes actively breastfeeding worldwide as one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and development. Human milk is the best source of nutrients and other required bioactive factors for newborns having a positive impact on their nervous, immune and hormonal system development. On the other hand it could be also a pathway of maternal excretion of toxic substances including toxic metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and consequently a source of infant exposure. The aim of this work was to present human milk as a valuable non-invasive matrix in assessing the exposure to toxic metals and PCBs for both the mother and her offspring in the coastal area of the Republic of Croatia. Maternal exposure to heavy metals cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) were evaluated with respect to maternal cigarette smoking habits, and mercury (Hg) on the basis of maternal seafood consumption and number of dental amalgam fillings. Maternal exposure to PCBs were evaluated with respect to possible occupational and environmental exposure through life. The results suggest that the general population in Croatia is not at high risk from exposure to toxic metals and PCB congeners. The assessment of toxic substances exposure and effects in vulnerable population groups are among public health priorities so it is important to continue to monitor levels of toxic substances in milk, regardless of the low levels measured. Newborns consume breast milk during first six months, so future investigations should be done in order to ensure safety and exclude potential risk of exposure to toxic metals and PCBs.

human milk ; environmental contaminants ; POPs ; PCBs ; toxic metals

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