Determination of organochlorine pesticide residues in human milk in Piracicaba, SP

Abstract

Worldwide, there is great concern with the issue of bioaccumulation of organochlorine compounds in human milk and their potential impact on health. Breastfeeding is recognized as essential for the proper development and protection of children’s health. In this study, we collected human milk samples from 40 donors in Piracicaba - SP, and analyzed to determine the levels of residues of organochlorine pesticides: hexachlorobenzene (HCB), lindane, heptachlor, aldrin, heptachlor epoxide, o,p’ DDE, a- endosulfan, p,p’ DDE, dieldrin, endrin, b-endosulfan, endosulfan sulfate, and methoxychlor. The analysis was performed by solid phase extraction (SPE) and quantification by gas chromatography using electron capture detector (ECD). Residues of organochlorine pesticides were detected in 65% of the donors evaluated.