Lead Poisoning

I just found out that the drinking water in my city contains elevated levels of lead. That information prompted me to do some research.

In the United States about 900.000 children ages 1 to 5 have a blood-lead level above the the level of concern. Even children who appear healthy can have dangerous levels of lead in their bodies.

Lead is dangerous to adults but even more dangerous for children, because a) babies and young children often put their hands and other objects in their mouth b) children's growing bodies absorb more lead, c) children's brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead, d) slowed growth and e) hearing problems.

Lead's Effects in children:
* Damage to the brain and nervous system
* Behavior and learning problems (such as
hyperactivity)
* Slowed growth
* Hearing problems
* Headaches

Lead's Effects in Adults
* Difficulties during pregnancy
* Other reproductive problems (in both men
and women)
* High blood pressure
* Digestive problems
* Nerve disorders
* Memory and concentration problems
* Muscle and joint pain

Many houses and apartments built before 1978 have paint that contains lead.

For more information you may call the National Lead Information Center 1- 800- 424 - Lead to learn how to protect children from lead poisoning. For other information on lead hazards check the Internet: www.epa.gor/lead.

EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline call 1- 800- 426 - 4791

Consumer Product Safety Commission Hotline to request information on lead in consumer products, or to report an unsafe consumer product or a product-related injury call 1 - 800 - 638 - 2772 or visit the Internet: www@cpsc.gov

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