Sources of Lead Based Poisoning

The EPA states that the three most common sources of lead poisoning are deteriorating lead-based paint, lead contaminated dust, and lead contaminated residential soil. Children are exposed to sources of lead based poisoning more often than adults. Sources of lead based poisoning can also cause more damage to children than they can to adults.

Childhood lead poisoning is a major environmental health problem in the United States. Children''s bodies absorb fifty percent of the lead consumed as compared to ten percent absorption in adult bodies. Children are more likely to be exposed to the sources of lead poisoning because they explore their environment with their mouths and are more likely to ingest lead paint chips or lead contaminated dust or soil. Children''s bodies are also more sensitive to sources of lead poisoning.

Children can have high levels of lead in their bodies without showing any obvious symptoms. If lead poisoning is not detected early, children can suffer learning and behavior problems, brain and nervous system damage, stunted growth, hearing problems, and chronic headaches. Symptoms that may indicate a child''s exposure to sources of lead poisoning may include: tiredness, decreased appetite, stomach ache, vomiting, diarrhea, sleeplessness, and learning problems.

Adults can also suffer deleterious consequences from repeated exposure to sources of lead poisoning. Adults can suffer from the following adverse health problems because of lead poisoning: muscle and joint pain, memory problems, nerve disorders, high blood pressure, reproductive complications and trouble during pregnancy, and digestive problems.

One of the most common sources of lead poisoning is deteriorating lead based paint. Lead based paint was used in many homes and buildings before 1978. Residential soils are also potential sources of lead poisoning because the dust and debris from lead paint or oil can be picked up by the soil. Household dust may also contain lead for the same reason. Sources of lead poisoning can also include drinking water that has passed through lead pipes and plumbing. People who work in environments where lead materials are present can bring home sources of lead poisoning on their person. Folk medicines like “azarcon” can also be potential sources of lead poisoning.

Sources of lead poisoning can include lead paint chips or lead paint dust formed when painted surfaces are scraped, sanded, or heated. Lead based paint on high traffic areas such as doors and door frames, porches and fences, stairs, railing, and banisters, and window areas may be more dangerous. Lead based paint that is in good condition is usually not a hazard. The older the building you dwell in, the more likely you will come into contact with sources of lead poisoning. There are medical and residential tests that can measure the amount of lead in a person or a building, respectively. If you have been exposed to sources of lead poisoning as a result of another person''s negligence, you may have the right to seek reparations for your damages.

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