Fish consumption, methylmercury and child neurodevelopment

Abstract

Purpose of review-To summarize recent evidence regarding associations of early life exposure to mercury from maternal fish consumption during pregnancy, thimerosal in vaccines and dental amalgam with child neurodevelopment.Recent findings-Recent publications have built upon previous evidence demonstrating mild detrimental neurocognitive effects from prenatal methylmercury exposure from maternal fish consumption during pregnancy. New studies examining the effects of prenatal fish consumption as well as methylmercury suggest there are benefits from prenatal fish consumption, but also that consumption of fish high in mercury should be avoided. Future studies incorporating information on both the methylmercury and the docosahexaenoic acid contained within fish will help to refine recommendations to optimize outcomes for mothers and children. Additional recent studies have supported the safety of vaccines containing thimerosal and of dental amalgam for repair of dental caries in children.Summary-Exposure to mercury may harm child development. Interventions intended to reduce exposure to low levels of mercury in early life must, however, be carefully evaluated in consideration of the potential attendant harm from resultant behavior changes, such as reduced docosahexaenoic acid exposure from lower seafood intake, reduced uptake of childhood vaccinations and suboptimal dental care.

Food Components with Anti-Obesity Effect

“…Potential concerns over fish or fish oil consumption include adverse responses in platelet function, as well as methylmercury and other environmental contaminants, particularly with fish consumption. However, its potential adverse effects must be weighed against the potential benefits, including cardiovascular disease prevention and brain development (Lien 2009, Oken & Bellinger 2008.…”

The Role of Heavy Metal Pollution in Neurobehavioral Disorders: a Focus on Autism

“…In particular, no safe level of exposure to lead exists (Grandjean 2010), while exposure to methylmercury in fetal life causes diffuse and widespread neurological damage at lower doses that affect brain function in adults (Oken and Bellinger 2008). Furthermore, exposure to lead and methyl mercury has been shown to be potentially involved in autism development, while little information is available for cadmium.…”

Prenatal Maternal Occupational Exposure and Postnatal Child Exposure to Elemental Mercury

“…We excluded individuals who had been exposed to organic mercury, for instance, individuals who were exposed to methylmercury by eating excessive amounts of fish contaminated with mercury. 13 We also excluded mild elemental mercury exposure (mercury concentrations in the body within normal ranges) and inorganic mercury exposure. Patient informed consent was obtained, and this work was approved by the medical ethical committee of Xinhua Hospital, affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine.…”