Elevated blood lead levels in urban moonshine drinkers

Of 49 patients reporting consumption of moonshine within the past 5 years, 25 (51%) of 49 had elevated blood lead levels (>15 μg/dL), with 15 (31%) of 49 having extremely elevated blood lead levels (>50 μg/dL). Recent moonshine consumption (within the past month) was reported by 38 (78%) of 49 patients. Of these 38 recent consumers, 23 (61%) had elevated lead levels compared with only 2 (18%) of 11 of those reporting more remote consumption (risk difference 42%; 95% confidence interval 15% to 70%).

Conclusion: A high percentage of patients who reported moonshine consumption had elevated blood lead levels.