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Lead Poisoning In Children

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What is lead?

Lead is a naturally occurring metal found in small amounts of the Earth’s crust. Although lead has been previously used as an ingredient in paint, gas, and plumbing, it is poisonous and can be dangerous to your and your child’s health.

Why is lead harmful?

Once lead is consumed it is incorporated into the skeletal system and can cause severe health problems. Lead can be especially harmful to children under the age of six because they absorb more lead than adults and their nervous systems and brain are more sensitive to lead’s toxic effects. Lead exposure in children can cause numerous problems in a child’s development and behavior, such as: • Damage to the brain and nervous system
• Slowed growth and development (such as delayed puberty)
• Learning and behavioral problems
• Hearing and speech problems

How do children get lead poisoning? …show more content…
Children are at a higher risk for lead poisoning because of their hand-to-mouth activity. Lead gets into the body by breathing it in or by eating it. Lead in paint may contaminate house dust, which children may ingest through crawling or teething. Children can also be exposed to lead through maternal exposure, breastfeeding, contaminated soil, water, or imported or old toys.

How can I prevent childhood lead poisoning?

No amount of lead is safe and prevention is key to protecting your child. If you live in an older home (built before 1978) lead may be in your paint, drinking water, or even dust. Painting over chipped walls, cleaning off dusty surfaces, and removal of old pipes may reduce the level of lead in your home. Washing your children’s hands and toys frequently may also reduce lead dust. Ensuring that your child eats nutritious meals can help them resist against lead poisoning, especially meals rich in Vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

When should my children be

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