[Foreign substances in maternal milk].

In 1984-1985 72 specimens of human milk were examined for hexachlorobenzene, DDE and polychlorinated biphenyls and 69 specimens for lead and cadmium. The residual levels (expressed in mg.kg-1 milk fat) were as follows: hexachlorobenzene 1.97 (0.24-5.58), DDE 1.56 (0.17-5.80) and polychlorinated biphenyls 3.18 (1.28-9.08). All specimens were positive. The lead levels were 1.68 (less than 0.10-6.75), cadmium levels 0.31 (less than 0.05-1.08) ng.ml-1 milk. Lead was present in 94.2%, cadmium in 98.6% specimens. The results were compared with other areas of the CSSR, data from the literature and hygienic standards. The authors discuss limited or discontinued breastfeeding in high occupational exposure. Finally they emphasize advantages associated with breastfeeding and the justification of a prolactation programme.