Exposição materna a metais pesados e efeitos no desenvolvimento fetal

Abstract

Maternal exposure to heavy metals during the gestational period constitutes an important public health concern, due to its proven association with epigenetic alterations and fetal malformations. This qualitative, literature-based study aimed to identify the main factors related to fetal toxicity resulting from exposure to heavy metals and its impacts on maternal and fetal health. The search was conducted in the PubMed and SciELO databases, covering publications from 2015 to 2025; however, earlier articles were also reviewed and incorporated into the study when deemed relevant for theoretical refinement and contextualization of the topic.indicates that metals such as lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and arsenic (As) have a high ability to cross the placental barrier and interfere with critical embryonic development processes, particularly during organogenesis. Prenatal exposure to these agents is associated with a wide range of adverse outcomes, including neural tube 4 defects, cardiac malformations, orofacial clefts, low birth weight, preterm delivery, and spontaneous abortion. The mechanisms of toxicity involve oxidative stress, hormonal dysregulation, and epigenetic modifications - such as DNA methylation - that may lead to long-lasting effects on gene expression and increase the risk of chronic diseases throughout life. Vulnerable populations, including riverside communities, agricultural workers, and industrial employees, show greater susceptibility to exposure. It is concluded that prevention and environmental monitoring, together with public policies focused on health surveillance and occupational safety, are essential to mitigate the impacts of heavy metals on maternal-fetal health and to promote healthy gestational development. [resumo fornecido pelo autor]