RELATIVE EXPOSURE OF CHILDREN TO LEAD FROM DUST AND DRINKING-WATER

The Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde Health Authority, in the North West of E ngland, could be described as a ''low-level lead exposure area.'' Prim ary sources of lead exposure are atmospheric fallout (both indoors and outdoors) and potable water consumption. Deciduous teeth were collect ed from children living in this area as were water samples and outdoor dust samples. Both total lead concentrations and Pb-206:Pb-207 ratios were determined for a defined subset of teeth. Significant difference s in the total lead concentrations were found for teeth collected from children resident in different targeted areas (i.e., Blackpool, fleet wood, and Garstang). No significant differences were found between the total lead concentrations or the Pb-206:Pb-207 ratios from dust and w ater samples in these areas. Examination of the Pb-206:Pb-207 ratios f or dust, water, and teeth obtained from each area separately revealed differing patterns of exposure to lead. Determination of Pb-206:Pb-207 ratios, in addition to total lead concentrations, enabled the differe nces in sources of exposure to be identified in these communities. The authors conclude that isotopic analyses are an important aspect of co mmunity survey work, and these analyses can be helpful in accurately t argeting intervention strategies aimed at reducing exposure to lead.