Objective:

To estimate de magnitude of Pb poisoning (≥5μg/dL blood) in 1-4 year old children and to identify the contribution of lead-glazed ceramics use (LGC) as a source of exposure in the 32 Mexican states.

Materials and methods:

Using the results from a sample of capillary blood lead (BPb) we estimated the prevalence of Pb poisoning, it’s association with LGC and national distribution.

Results:

The national prevalence of Pb poisoning was 17.4% representing 1.4 million children. The prevalence was 30.7% among LGC users and 11.8% in non-users. In 17 states the prevalence of Pb poisoning was ≥10%, in 11 states between 5-10%, and in 4 states <5%.

Conclusions:

There is a geographic differential distribution of the problem; confirming the association with LGC and estimating the contribution of other Pb exposure sources. This information offers a guide to implement prevention and control actions in Mexico.

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