|
Lead Paint
Lead paint poisoning is an extremely serious matter. Sadly,
it is also one that primarily affects children. Children's
growing bodies absorb lead far more easily than adult bodies
do, so they are far more likely to suffer injury. Even small
amounts of lead, ingested from eating paint chips or inhaled
in dust, can pose a danger to children, especially those under
the age of six.
Approximately 434,000 U.S. children aged 1-5 years have blood
lead levels greater than the CDC recommended level of 10 micrograms
of lead per deciliter of blood.
Each year, millions of American children are hurt by lead
poisoning. Those who live in houses that have undergone renovation,
or housing that is old and dilapidated, are considered to
be at great risk. Any child that is exposed to flaking or
peeling paint is in danger.
High lead levels can cause hearing loss, behavioral problems,
growth retardation, learning disabilities, and damage to the
nervous system and brain. Extremely high levels can cause
convulsions, comas, and death.
If you live in a building built before 1978, there is a good
chance lead paint was used within it. Peeling paint is one
sign that you could have a lead paint problem. If you think
you or your children have been exposed to lead paint, have
a doctor administer a blood-lead test to determine whether
exposure has occurred.
|
