Feed: The devastating effects of lead poisoning - Recently Updated Pages - AggScore: 10.6

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled over 110,000 items, since July, due to dangerous levels of lead . Consumers are faced with the effects of lead poisoning and may not even know it. The chief sources of lead can be found in lead-based paint, contaminated soil, dust, or drinking water.

Blood lead levels as low as 10 micrograms per deciliter can diminish mental and physical development.

FACT: The public has many options for lowering lead dangers in their house
FACT: Even children who seem healthy can quietly be suffering from the effects of lead poisoning.
FACT: Anyone can get lead in their bodies by breathing or ingesting lead dust, or by eating soil or paint chips containing lead.

* Minors growing bodies absorb more lead.
* Babies and young children often put their hands and other objects into their mouths. These objects can consist of lead dust in them.


In children, lead can lead to:

* Learning disabilities, ADD, and decreased intelligence.

* Poor coordination.
* Lower bone and muscle growth.

Take your child to a physician if you believe that your child has been poisoned by lead. Low exposure is most common, exposure to high levels of lead can have devastating effects on children, including seizures, unconsciousness, and, in some cases, death. Although children are especially susceptible to lead exposure, lead can be dangerous for adults too.

* Do not remove lead paint yourself.
* If your work or hobby involves lead, change clothes and use doormats before going into your home.
* Eat a balanced diet, rich in iron and calcium.
* Keep areas where kids play as dust-free and hygienic as possible.

To learn more about the effects of lead poisoning visit http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/leadinfo.htm.