Lead in Even Small Amounts Affects Children

Exposure to Small Amounts of Lead Causes Childhood Difficulties

Sep 21, 2009

A new study shows that exposure to lead in smaller amounts than originally considered safe by experts is still having a negative impact on children.

A study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood published September 17th,shows that the CDC's acceptable lead blood levels of 10 micrograms per deciliter set in 1991 is most likely too high and needs to be revised. According to Kim Dietrich, a professor of environmental health at the University of Cincinnati, children with levels between 5 and 10 mcg/dl are showing signs of antisocial behavior and poor educational performance.

The Study

The study, led by Dr. Alan Edmond, used blood samples from 582 two year old children. The samples were assessed for levels of lead in the blood, and at ages 7 and 8 the 488 children on whom information remained were tested in academic performance and behavior. Blood lead levels at age 2 were linked to poor educational performance and antisocial behavior at ages 7 and 8. The researchers also found that the higher the blood levels, the greater the tendency toward poor performance and antisocial behavior. Blood lead below 5mcg/dl showed little to no impairment while levels between 5 and 10mcg/dl showed significant cause for concern.

Lead Exposure in Children

Edmond's researchers believe that children are more susceptible to lead exposure because their growing tissue easily absorbs it, possibly depositing it in bones where it could stay for 30 years or more.

Lead was banned in 1978 from use in paint, children's products and cookware. Lead paint, however, still exists in older houses, usually built before 1960, in the soil around those houses, and sometimes in the dust within the houses. Lead paint has also been found on children's toys imported from other countries, and lead is not banned for use in plastics where it does have occasion to be found.

Protecting the Children

Edmond's study and past research have implicated lead poisoning in the cognitive and social impairments of children. Some evidence points to the possibility of links to ADHD as well. So how can children be better protected from lead? The answer will require work and cooperation amongst parents and government alike.

First, as indicated by the study above, the acceptable lead level should be lowered. Second, lead should be banned in use for all children's products including plastic, which is the main tool for making toys. Parents must make sure that they pay attention to the toy recall lists that specify items containing toxic lead paint and remove any items that would be harmful if the child puts them in his/her mouth. Parents must also be vigilant about the toys they purchase for their children and the environments they frequent. Lead exposure has been significantly reduced in the last 20 years, but better standards are still in need.

The copyright of the article Lead in Even Small Amounts Affects Children in Health Field is owned by Tammie Doerler. Permission to republish Lead in Even Small Amounts Affects Children in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.