The health status of 2 complete kindergarten groups of 3-year old children from two small towns, Hettstedt (n = 25) and Wippra (n = 26) was assessed every six months for 3 years.

The kindergartens are located at varying distances from disused copper and lead smelters. Different parameters were analysed in order to characterise various air pollution influences.

A parent-completed questionnaire gave information on the child's and family's medical history, residence, living conditions and neighbourhood. During the 3 pre-school years, attention was primarily focused on the children's individual development.