Facts About Lead Poisoning

What is Lead?

• Lead, known for its versatility and hardiness, is a naturally occurring metal that has been used to manufacture a variety of products, such as paint, gasoline, ceramics and jewelry.
• Lead is very toxic to humans

What is Lead Poisoning?

• Lead Poisoning is a medical condition caused by swallowing or inhaling lead
• Lead poisoning is 100% preventable

Who can get Lead Poisoning?

• Anyone can get lead poisoning, but children under six years of age face the greatest risk of exposure and negative consequences.
• Young children absorb lead more easily than adults and their behaviors, such as frequent hand-to-mouth contact, greatly increase the risk of exposure.

What are the effects of Lead Poisoning?

• Lead exposure can have adverse permanent effects on a young child’s mental and physical development:

-Learning disabilities/ Decreased IQ              -Hearing problems

-Behavior problems                                      -Kidney damage

-Speech & language delays                          -Seizures

What is the most common source of lead exposure?

• Lead paint is the most common source.
• Chipping or deteriorating lead paint creates contaminated dust and debris that can children can ingest or inhale.
• Lead painted surfaces on windows and doors also create leaded dust when they rub against each other.
• Children may also chew on lead painted surfaces.
• Lead paint was commonly used on homes built before 1950 and still used in some house paints until 1978.
• Most child lead poisoning cases are linked to older windows and porches.

What are other sources of lead?

• Less common sources of lead exposure:

-Soil                                     -Folk remedies

-Water (old plumbing)             -Imported jewelry or toys

-Unsafe renovation                 -Hobbies

-Dishes                                -Occupations

What are the symptoms of childhood lead poisoning?

• Often there are no signs of lead poisoning.  Symptoms may also be mistaken for the flu or other illnesses.  Some children may experience stomachaches, fatigue, irritability, constipation, headaches or poor appetites.

• Blood lead testing is the only way to tell if a child has been exposed to lead.

How do I protect my children from lead poisoning?

• If you live in an older home routinely clean to keep dust levels down.  Pay special attention to high-risk areas, such as windows and floors.  Vacuuming of leaded debris and dust should only be done with a HEPA vacuum.
• Repair and/or maintain old painted surfaces using approved lead safe methods.  The improper disturbance of lead paint can actually create a greater hazard.
• Wash children’s hands frequently, especially before eating and bedtime.
• Ensure children eat a healthy diet.  Feed them foods high in calcium and iron.  Avoid fatty foods.
• Watch children’s behavior.  Do not let them play near or touch chipping paint.  Do not let them play in bare soil, especially near old buildings or busy roads.