Lead toxicity, Senegal

Following an unexplained cluster of deaths in children from the NGagne Diaw quarter of Thiaroye sur Mer, Dakar, Senegal, an investigation revealed that the area was contaminated with lead from the informal recycling of lead batteries.

Very high concentrations of lead, both outside and inside peoples’ homes, have been found in this area inhabited by about 950 people, who are continuously exposed through ingestion and inhalation of lead-contaminated dust.