Association between arsenic exposure and behavior among first-graders from Torreón, Mexico

Previous studies suggest adverse effects of arsenic exposure on children's cognitive function. In this study, we examined the potential association between arsenic exposure and children's behavior. Five hundred and twenty-six children, 6-7 years old, living near a metal foundry in Torreón, Mexico, participated in the study. Arsenic exposure was measured as total urinary arsenic (UAs) and arsenic metabolites-monomethylarsonic acid (MMA) and dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) concentrations. Children's behavior was assessed by Conners Behavior Rating Scales for parents and teachers. The median (interquartile range) concentrations of UAs, MMA and DMA were 55.2 (39.7), 6.7 (5.9) and 39.3 (28.5) μg/L, respectively. The mean behavior scores from parent and teacher ratings were within the clinically normal range (