Lead Poisoning
What is lead poisoning?
As a natural element, Pb, lead can be found in numerous places among nature and inside the home. Most commonly found in home built prior to 1978, lead can be detected in old paint, contaminated soil and certain types of plumbing and ceramic materials. Lead is easily absorbed through the body, with babies and children epicyclically at risk to dangers through in-home exposure. Through hand-to-mouth contact and other means of absorption, children can ingest dangerous lead particles. Exposure to lead can cause permanent damage to children. The greatest risk is to brain development, and even low levels of lead can cause seizures, unconsciousness, learning disabilities, speech, language and behavior disorders and hearing problems. You and your family could be at risk without even knowing it.
Lead poisoning can effect:
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Unborn babies whose mothers have lead in their systems;
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Children less than 6 years old;
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Adults exposed to lead materials at work;
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People in older homes (built prior to 1978) that are being remodeled or renovated;
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People whose hobbies use leaded materials
Did you know: That African American children living in housing built before 1946 were found to have elevated blood lead levels.
