Neurobehavioral function in school-age children exposed to manganese in drinking water.

Background: Manganese neurotoxicity is well documented in individuals occupationally exposed to airborne particulates, but few data are available on risks from drinking-water exposure.

Objective: We examined associations of exposure from concentrations of manganese in water and hair with memory, attention, motor function, and parent- and teacher-reported hyperactive behaviors.

Methods: We recruited 375 children and measured manganese in home tap water (MnW) and hair (MnH).

Intellectual impairment in school-age children exposed to manganese from drinking water.

Background: Manganese is an essential nutrient, but in excess it can be a potent neurotoxicant. Despite the common occurrence of manganese in groundwater, the risks associated with this source of exposure are largely unknown.

Objectives: Our first aim was to assess the relations between exposure to manganese from drinking water and children's intelligence quotient (IQ).