Lead Poisoning: Health Risks & Effects - A Comprehensive Overview

The effects of lead on the health of adults and children is a major health concern in the United States. Environmental exposure to lead can cause serious impairment, disease and even death.

Time Frame

• Acute exposure to lead resulting in lead poisoning can occur after only a few days. Chronic exposure takes place over the course of several years.

Features

• Short- term exposure can result in loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, joint or muscle pain and anemia. Long- term exposure is severe with effects including damage to the reproductive, blood-forming and nervous systems.

Warning

• Children are especially vulnerable: Exposure can lead to learning disabilities and severe neurological disorders resulting in seizures, coma and death.

Causes

• Contamination occurs through lead-based paint, soil, water and dust.

Prevention/Solution

• Call in a certified lead abatement contractor to remove old paint. Otherwise, clean areas thoroughly and keep children from chewing on paint chips or playing in areas outside where lead contamination is suspected.