Teenagers near Umicore plant have more metals in their bodies than children elsewhere
Young people living near the Umicore plant in Hoboken exhibit higher levels of lead in their blood and arsenic in their urine compared to their peers across Flanders. As part of ongoing company monitoring, a recent study concludes that while no immediate additional interventions are required, continued vigilance and hygiene measures remain crucial.
Between February 2023 and January 2024, researchers assessed 200 adolescents aged 13 to 17 from Hoboken, Kruibeke and Hemiksem for exposure to lead, cadmium, and arsenic. The findings revealed that those in the study area had 13 per cent higher average blood lead levels compared to a reference group of the same age. Breakdown products of arsenic in urine were also found to be 10-23 per cent higher on average.
“Exposure to heavy metals presents a clear risk to health"
“Lead in particular is a point of concern because the exceedance of the health benchmark is more pronounced in this area,” the Department of Care said in a press release. “One in five young people in the study group has a lead-in-blood level above the benchmark, compared to only 12 per cent in the Flemish reference group.”
Notably, cadmium levels in blood and urine were lower in the study group compared to the reference. However, approximately one in three young people in both Flanders and the study area showed urinary cadmium levels exceeding the health benchmark, indicating widespread long-term exposure throughout the region.
The study also observed other health disparities. Compared to the reference group, people in the study area demonstrated differences in respiratory health, including increased inflammation and infections. Neurological development (reaction speed and information processing), behaviour (hyperactivity and social interactions) and general vitality also showed deviations.
“Exposure to heavy metals presents a clear risk to health,” said Elly Den Hond, spokesperson for the research team. “Focusing on reducing exposure is critical.”
Preventative measures
The study highlighted environmental and behavioural factors influencing metal exposure. Adolescents living further from the factory or in the prevailing wind direction had lower blood lead levels. Additionally, those who practised good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing or tooth brushing, exhibited reduced lead exposure. Conversely, contact with contaminated soil or airborne dust correlated with higher levels of lead, cadmium and arsenic.
"Wealthy multinationals bear significant responsibility to mitigate environmental impacts from their operations"
“The emission of metals into the environment has significantly declined over the years,” the Department of Care said. “We will evaluate these findings to determine if adjustments to existing measures and advice are necessary. In the meantime, raising awareness about hygiene, ventilation and dietary habits can further reduce exposure.”
Welfare minister Caroline Gennez of socialists Vooruit highlighted the role of companies like Umicore in minimising pollution. “Wealthy multinationals bear significant responsibility to mitigate environmental impacts from their operations,” she said.
Gennez acknowledged Umicore’s efforts to address pollution, noting that “emissions have dropped substantially in recent years”. However, she pledged to ensure the company’s measures remain sufficient. “If they fall short, I will act immediately to enforce stricter regulations. Protecting our children is non-negotiable,” she said.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO JASPER JACOBS
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