103 Examining the link between prenatal lead exposure and hypospadias rates in Puerto Rican boys: An observational study

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: Male urogenital tract development is influenced by hormonal signals, which may be disrupted by endocrine-disrupting chemicals like lead. This observational study investigates the potential link between lead exposure and hypospadias rates in Puerto Rican boys, focusing on regional hotspots of hypospadias. Methods/Study Population: Lead levels from water plants across Puerto Rico were analyzed using PR Aqueduct and Sewer Authority water quality certificates. Hypospadias rates in seven health regions were obtained from the Puerto Rico Department of Health’s Birth Defects Prevention and Surveillance System. Data were from Puerto Rican boys born to women aged 15 years or older from 2017 to 2022. Rates were calculated using 2020 Census data, and statistical analyses were conducted using Intellectus. Results/Anticipated Results: Significant differences in hypospadias rates and lead levels were found across health regions, with the highest rates observed in Bayamón and Arecibo (5 cases per-100,000 births). Bayamón had the highest average lead concentration (14.33 ppb). A Kruskal–Wallis test showed significant regional variation in lead levels (χ²(6)  =  16.82, p  =  0.010) and hypospadias rates (χ²(6)  =  16.53, p  =  0.011). Post hoc analyses revealed key differences between regions, notably Bayamón and Metro. Discussion/Significance of Impact: These findings suggest a potential spatial link between prenatal lead exposure and hypospadias risk, underscoring the need for targeted public health interventions. Future studies will explore anti-Müllerian hormone expression in lead-exposed Sertoli cells to better understand the biological mechanisms behind these patterns.