Factors affecting bone demineralization and blood lead levels of postmenopausal women--a population-based study from Germany.

We investigated the influence of various lifestyle factors on blood lead levels in postmenopausal women from the general population of Germany. Particular consideration was given to those factors which are suspected to be related to bone demineralization. The study population consisted of 424 women, aged 45 to 80 years, who were examined in a substudy of the National Health and Nutrition Survey called VERA (Verbundstudie Ernährungserhebung, und Risikofaktorenanalyse) from 1987 to 1988. Mean blood lead level was 61.4 micrograms/liter (SD, 27.3). In multiple linear regression analysis alcohol consumption, former use of oral contraception, hematocrit, and age were positively associated with blood lead levels, whereas calcium intake and high physical activity showed a negative association with blood lead levels. Some of the identified risk factors which are suspected to exert their influence on blood lead levels by affecting bone demineralization can be influenced by change of individual behavior. Thus, we conclude that reduction of alcohol consumption, adequate calcium intake, and physical activity may reduce blood lead levels as well as negative health effects of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.