Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning occurs when lead accumulates in the body over time as a result of exposure to environmental sources such as air, water, food, and soil. Lead can be toxic to humans in various forms, and prolonged exposure can cause health problems ranging from abdominal pain, slowed growth and development, kidney damage, reproductive problems, and even death.
Lead poisoning is most commonly caused by ingestion or inhalation of lead in the environment, typically through contaminated water and soil, lead-based paint or dust, and leaded gasoline. In some cases, lead poisoning can be caused by ingesting or inhaling certain occupational products containing lead, such as paint, ammunition, or pottery equipment or materials.
It is estimated that approximately four million children ages 1 to 5 are exposed to excessive levels of lead, particularly in inner city and other impoverished areas where houses are older and more likely to have lead-based paint. Lead poisoning is a serious problem, especially in childhood, as high levels of lead in the body can damage the brain and central nervous system, leading to physical and mental impairments that may be irreversible.
Symptoms of lead poisoning depend on the level of lead exposure, and may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, slowed growth, cognitive and behavioral difficulties, poor muscle coordination and poor speech, hearing and vision. More severe cases can result in seizures, coma and even death.
Due to its toxicity, the first step in treating any lead-related illness is to prevent further exposure and to ensure that the affected person has stopped any activity that may be contributing to lead poisoning. In addition, medical experts may recommend the removal of lead paint or lead-contaminated soil, or the use of chelation therapy, where a chelating agent is administered to bind to lead molecules in the bloodstream and carry them out of the body in urine.
Other treatments for lead poisoning include dietary supplements such as calcium, iron, Vitamin C and Zinc, as well as anti-convulsants and anti-hypertensives. Prognosis for lead poisoning is typically good, especially when the lead exposure is identified and treated early. Long-term effects of lead poisoning are usually reversible and may subside over time with proper treatment and prevention.
In addition to the medical treatment of lead poisoning, there is an urgent need for greater public awareness of the dangers of lead exposure in order to minimize its prevalence in our environment. Laws controlling lead emissions and chemicals containing lead, as well as more rigorous testing, are essential steps in protecting the health of all members of the public, particularly our most vulnerable, such as children and the elderly.
