• Journal of Life Science
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• v.19 no.4
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• pp.472-478
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• 2009

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the levels of blood lead and cadmium in urban and rural populations. Blood samples were collected from 100 urban (Busan) residents and 150 rural residents (Jinju-84, Gijang-66) from July 1 to August 30, 2007. The blood lead and cadmium levels were analyzed using flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry and were compared by age, gender and smoking status. The mean levels of blood lead in urban-Busan, rural-Jinju and rural-Gijang residents were $6.38{\pm}2.86{\mu}g/dl$, $5.41{\pm}2.16{\mu}g/dl$ and $4.50{\pm}2.87{\mu}g/dl$, respectively. There was a significant difference in the level of blood lead between urban-Busan residents and rural-Gijang residents. The mean levels of blood cadmium in urban-Busan, rural-Jinju and rural-Gijang residents were $0.85{\pm}0.44{\mu}g/l$, $1.57{\pm}0.78{\mu}g/l$ and $0.95{\pm}0.54{\mu}g/l$, respectively. There was a significant difference in the level of blood cadmium between urban-Busan residents and rural-Jinju residents. This study showed that the levels of blood lead and cadmium were significantly different between urban and rural populations. The level of blood lead was highest in urban-Busan residents, but the level of blood cadmium was highest in rural-Jinju residents. Further studies are needed to define the cause of high levels of blood lead and cadmium related to area of residence and personal habits.