Blood Mercury Levels in Women and Fish Consumption Patterns
Author Information
Author(s): Kathryn R. Mahaffey, Robert P. Clickner, Rebecca A. Jeffries
Primary Institution: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Hypothesis
Blood mercury concentrations vary regionally in the U.S. and are associated with fish consumption patterns.
Conclusion
Blood mercury levels decreased from 1999 to 2004 without a decrease in overall fish consumption, indicating a shift in the types of fish consumed.
Supporting Evidence
- Women living in coastal areas had higher blood mercury levels than those living inland.
- Income and ethnicity were significant predictors of blood mercury concentrations.
- Fish consumption patterns varied significantly by region and coastal proximity.
Takeaway
Women who eat more fish, especially those living near the coast, tend to have higher mercury levels in their blood. Over time, even though they still eat fish, the amount of mercury in their blood has gone down.
Methodology
The study used NHANES data from 1999 to 2004 to analyze blood mercury levels and fish consumption patterns among women of childbearing age.
Potential Biases
Some bias may remain due to the weighting issues in the NHANES data.
Limitations
The NHANES was not designed to provide unbiased estimates for coastal and noncoastal areas.
Participant Demographics
Women of childbearing age (16-49 years) from various U.S. Census regions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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