Environmental Persistence and Human Exposure to Lead in Niger: A Regional Perspective

Nasser Hassane Adamou^1,

¹EnviSanté, Niamey, Niger

Cite this paper:
Nasser Hassane Adamou. Environmental Persistence and Human Exposure to Lead in Niger: A Regional Perspective. Journal of Environment Pollution and Human Health. 2025; 13(3):46-49. doi: 10.12691/jephh-13-3-2

Abstract

Lead exposure is an underrecognized but urgent public health and environmental threat in Niger, where environmental monitoring, epidemiological data, and regulatory controls are virtually absent. Drawing on evidence from West Africa, this review identifies major sources and pathways of exposure, including artisanal mining, informal lead‒acid battery recycling, lead-based paints, contaminated consumer goods, and polluted water and soils, which are linked to severe and irreversible health impacts, particularly among children and informal sector workers. Regional case studies from Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal reveal the scale of contamination and its neurodevelopmental, cardiovascular, renal, and ecological consequences, underscoring likely parallels in Niger. The review highlights critical gaps in research, policy, and public awareness and proposes a framework for national action: establishing baseline environmental and biomonitoring, mapping informal sector activities, and adapting proven interventions from neighboring countries. Without swift, coordinated measures, lead will remain a pervasive yet preventable source of long-term harm to health, productivity, and environmental integrity in Niger. Future efforts should prioritize the creation of a national lead surveillance system, community education initiatives, and multisectoral collaboration to translate evidence into effective policy and sustainable public health action.

Keywords:
Lead exposure Environmental health Public health Niger Informal recycling Chemical risk management

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