Research Overview

Human bone lead levels can be measured non-invasively via a novel technique called X-Ray Fluorescence. The Bone Lead X-Ray Fluorescence Laboratory (in the Department of Community and Preventive Medicine) is one of only two centers in this country currently practicing this technique to measure long-term or cumulative (chronic) lead exposure in human bone.

The laboratory measures human bone lead in research study volunteers, people referred by physicians, and people referred by lawyers – all of whom have symptoms of lead exposure or are concerned about lead exposure they may have suffered in the past.

The information obtained from bone lead measurements can provide evidence of historical lead exposure, in the absence of documented exposure. For more information about this innovative technique, visit the Bone Lead X-Ray Fluorescence Laboratory.

Laboratory Resources

• Research on bone lead
• Services
• Collaborations
• Research publications