Some factors related to sum-DDT levels in Ugandan mothersʹ breast milk

A total of 143 samples of Ugandan mothersʹ breast milk were analysed by gas chromatography for the presence and levels of DDT residues. The relationship between the level of DDT in the milk and the motherʹs age, parity, dietary habits, and place of usual residence were studied. vels in the milk were not significantly related to the motherʹs age. Mothers nursing their first child had a significantly higher mean DDT level in their milk than those nursing their second child. Furthermore, mothers who resided in the urban area had a significantly higher mean DDT level in their milk than those who resided in the rural area. No statistically significant differences were observed in the mean levels of DDT in the milk samples of vegetarian and non-vegetarian mothers. he present findings, it could be concluded that milk from mothers nursing the first child and residing in an urban area is a good bioindicator for assessing exposure of lactacting mothers to DDT in Uganda.