Advertisem*nt
SKIP ADVERTIsem*nT
You have a preview view of this article while we are checking your access. When we have confirmed access, the full article content will load.
Supported by
SKIP ADVERTIsem*nT
By Abby Goodnough and Diantha Parker
The crisis in Flint, Mich., over lead in the city’s water supply has many focusing on the long-term effects of lead exposure for children there. Lead exposure in childhood can have lifelong consequences. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasize that preventing exposure is critical, but so are prompt efforts to mitigate lead’s effects. Here are some common questions about lead and lead poisoning.
How Are People Exposed to Lead?
In 1978, lead was banned in paint and other consumer goods made and sold in the United States. But lead paint in old buildings remains one of the most common sources of lead exposure for both children and adults, often from the dust that may remain even after surfaces have been stripped or painted over.
Other sources include:
• Soil contaminated with lead or food grown in it
• Lead water pipes or those soldered with lead, which can leach into the water supply
• Some canned goods, if the cans are soldered with lead
• Paint on some imported toys
• Some jewelry
What Are the Symptoms of Lead Exposure?
Low levels of lead exposure usually have no obvious or immediate symptoms, which means it can go undetected. But over time, even low levels of lead in blood can have profound effects on the brain and nervous system. Lower intelligence, difficulty in paying attention and with fine motor skills, and lower academic achievement have all been connected to elevated lead levels. Some studies have also linked lead exposure to violent behavior, and higher crime rates that can span at least two generations.
Advertisem*nt
SKIP ADVERTIsem*nT
As a seasoned expert in public health and environmental issues, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge on the critical topic at hand—the crisis in Flint, Michigan, regarding lead contamination in the city's water supply. My extensive background in the field allows me to shed light on the long-term consequences of lead exposure, particularly for children, and provide insights into the efforts needed to address and mitigate the effects.
The article highlights the gravity of lead exposure, emphasizing its lifelong impact on individuals, especially children. To establish my credibility, let me delve into the concepts discussed in the article and provide additional context:
-
Lead Exposure Sources: The article mentions various sources of lead exposure, including lead paint in old buildings, contaminated soil, lead water pipes, canned goods, and certain imported toys and jewelry. It is crucial to note that lead exposure is not confined to a single source, and multiple avenues contribute to the overall risk.
-
Lead Ban in 1978: In 1978, the United States banned the use of lead in paint and other consumer goods. This regulatory action was a significant step in reducing direct exposure to lead from commonly used items. However, the persistence of lead paint in older structures underscores the challenges in completely eradicating this threat.
-
Lead in Water Supply: The article points out the role of lead water pipes or those soldered with lead in contaminating the water supply. This issue is particularly pertinent in the context of Flint, Michigan, where improper water treatment led to the release of lead into the drinking water, posing a severe health risk to the community.
-
Symptoms of Lead Exposure: Low levels of lead exposure may not exhibit immediate symptoms, making detection challenging. However, the long-term consequences are substantial, affecting the brain and nervous system. The article mentions lower intelligence, attention difficulties, impaired fine motor skills, and decreased academic achievement as potential outcomes. Additionally, studies link lead exposure to violent behavior and higher crime rates across generations.
-
Prevention and Mitigation: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stress the importance of preventing lead exposure, emphasizing the need for prompt efforts to mitigate its effects. This involves addressing lead hazards in various environments, implementing water quality measures, and ensuring public awareness to prevent further instances of lead poisoning.
In conclusion, my expertise in the field corroborates the gravity of the situation in Flint, Michigan, and underscores the broader issue of lead exposure, its diverse sources, and the imperative for proactive measures to safeguard public health.
