Health risk assessment of children by maternal milk consumption with content of heavy metals

The aim of this study was to assess the health risk of infants between 0 and 24 months of age due to ingestion of breast milk containing cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb). The non-carcinogenic risk (NCR) was quantified using probabilistic models with the Crystal Ball (R) program, following the model guidelines of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). The average of the maximum measured levels of Cd (8.87 mu g/kg) Hg, (20.88 mu g/kg) and Pb (37.29 mu g/kg) was 5, 21 and 19 times, respectively, above the maximum limits allowed by the World Health Organization. Regarding risk, the values associated with the content of at least one of the metals in breast milk could exceed the maximum limits allowed by the USEPA at each sampling site and each subgroup of babies (NCR >= 1). The first evidence of contamination by heavy metals in the breast milk of women living on the banks of the Cauca river was presented. In isolated cases, babies exposed by the intake of this milk, exceed the tolerable consumption of these contaminants. Taking into account the worst scenario, children in the area present a non-carcinogenic risk higher than the maximum allowed. The need of mitigation actions is confirmed for reducing potential risks to the health of infants. This should not lead to replace breastfeeding as an adequate measure, but to establish comprehensive policies aimed to reduce environmental and health inequities.