Abstract
This study sought to evaluate the in utero exposure to aluminum and status of selected
trace elements in South African women at delivery since aluminum is known to be toxic in all
developmental stages even at low concentrations. Serum aluminum was negatively correlated with
aluminum in urine, both uncorrected and corrected for creatinine, which suggests the retention of
aluminum in body stores. Serum copper and zinc levels were found to be high in this study
population. Serum copper levels were negatively correlated with aluminum in serum (β = −0.095; p =
0.05). There was a marginal negative correlation between aluminum levels in serum and manganese
levels in whole blood (β = −0.087; p = 0.08). Copper levels in maternal serum were negatively
correlated with birth weight and the length of neonates. There were a number of positive
correlations between maternal characteristics and birth outcomes. Mothers who consumed root
vegetables frequently appeared to be protected from aluminum retention and increased body burden
since their serum aluminum levels were found to be significantly lower. The findings of the current
study can be used as a baseline for further research on aluminum exposure and its associated
interactions and outcomes in vulnerable populations.