Differential fat accumulation in early adulthood according to adolescent-BMI and heavy metal exposure

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Heavy metals such as Lead (Pb) and Mercury (Hg) can affect adipose tissue mass and function. Considering the high prevalence of exposure to heavy metals and obesity in Mexico, we aim to examine if exposure to Pb and Hg in adolescence can modify how fat is accumulated in early adulthood.

Methods: This study included 100 participants from the ELEMENT cohort in Mexico. Adolescent Pb and Hg blood levels were determined at 14-16 years. Age- and sex-specific adolescent BMI Z-scores were calculated. At early adulthood (21-22 years), fat accumulation measurements were performed (abdominal, subcutaneous, visceral, hepatic, and pancreatic fat). Linear regression models with an interaction between adolescent BMI Z-score and Pb or Hg levels were run for each adulthood fat accumulation outcome with normal BMI as reference.

Results: In adolescents with obesity compared to normal BMI, as Pb exposure increased, subcutaneous (p-interaction 0.088) and visceral (p-interaction 0.0001) fat accumulation increases. Meanwhile, Hg was associated with subcutaneous (p-interaction 0.027) and abdominal (p-interaction 0.022) fat deposition among adolescents with obesity.

Conclusions: Heavy metal exposure in adolescence may alter how fat is accumulated in later periods of life.