Iron Supplementation of Lead-exposed Infants

Pilot Study to Determine the Efficacy of Iron Supplementation in Preventing the Elevation of Blood Lead Concentrations in Young Children

The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of iron (12.5 mg as ferrous sulfate) and placebo given for 6 months in preventing the elevation of blood lead concentration in children 6-9 months of age.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Infants included if gestational age >36 weeks, birth weight > 2500g, no chronic illness, blood lead concentration <10 mcg/dL, hemoglobin >9 g/dL, zinc protoporphyrin >90 mmol/mol heme
• Mothers included if 18 years or older

Exclusion criteria:

• Hemoglobin >11.5 g/dL