Lead is notorious for its ill effects on the human body. From the fall of the Roman Empire to a recent toy recall, this element has been stirring up health trouble for generations. Today, just as in the 1700s, there are plenty of reasons to be concerned about your family’s exposure to lead, including complications during the early years of development and, for adults, the onset of chronic diseases.
In the developmental stages, lead can lead to decreased IQ, ADHD and anemia [Source: Sanborn]. With exposure, adults risk high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney failure and a higher risk of cataracts [Source: Muntner, Schaumberg]. Fortunately, there has been a significant drop in lead exposure since the removal of lead from gasoline and paint in the mid-to-late 70s. But this doesn't mean that this toxin is completely removed from our environment. The CDC reports that an estimated 310,000 children are at risk for elevated lead levels [Source: CDC]. Recent toy recalls have demonstrated that lead exposure is still a major health concern.
Though lead paint is currently banned in the U.S., goods from other countries don't always adhere to the same guidelines. But these imported products aren't the only culprits. Older homes painted with lead-based paint are also a common source of exposure. The CDC lists lead paint chips as the number one source of lead exposure for children [Source: CDC]. Paint chips may be consumed or inhaled as a dust as the chips disintegrate over time.
Adults risk exposure through their occupation, particularly if they work in construction, plumbing or manufacturing industries (battery and glass manufacturing) [Source: Sanborn]. Years ago, the great Roman Empire is believed to have suffered from high lead levels due to the many lead pipes used to channel water. Exposure may also come from hobbies like glazed pottery work or lead soldering used for crafting lead shot or fishing weights [Source: Sanborn]. Lead can also lurk in cosmetics and costume jewelry. The CDC has even identified several artificial turf playing fields that have unsafe levels of lead dust [Source: CDC].
The growing number of toys recalled due to lead content has reenergized an awareness of exposure. As previously mentioned, many imported toys have not passed the safety grade due to the lead-based paint used in their production. This list has included items related to such popular characters as Thomas the Train, Sesame Street and Dora the Explorer. Parents should consult sources with updated, current listings of recalled toys regularly.
For listings of current recalls, log on:
- http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml07/07270.html
- http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml07/07257.html
- http://www.leadtoyrecalls.com/toy_recalls.
Symptoms of lead exposure in children can include fatigue, increased fussiness and poor appetite. Adults or children thought to be at risk for elevated lead should have their blood levels checked. This might need to be done multiple times to track any ongoing risks, or to determine that higher levels are decreasing.
Treatment for lead toxicity will depend on the child’s symptoms and lead level. Removing any potential sources of lead exposure should be the first priority for prevention as well as treatment. Check filters on the drinking water if there are any lead pipes. A diet high in good quality foods is also key. If the body is not getting enough calcium, lead can deposit in the bones more easily. A diet high in fruits and vegetables will also provide significant amounts of vitamin C, which can play a role in preventing lead toxicity [Source: Houston]. Research has suggested that the spice turmeric potentially protects against lead toxicity as well [Source: Shukla].
For those with extremely high toxicity levels, chelation therapy may be recommended. Chelation is the term used for the removal of metals from the body, achieved through various medications. Not all patients will need this therapy, but it should be addressed by a physician knowledgeable in chelation therapy.
Lead remains a problem despite efforts to remove it from consumer products. Children are especially at risk due to their developing bodies. Start by identifying potential sources of exposure and educating yourself on the warning signs. Your efforts will contribute to protecting the 300,000 children at risk and help prevent the debilitating chronic diseases rooted in lead toxicity.
