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Lead PoisoningLead poisoning is a problem affecting more than 300,000 children in the US under the age of 5. Lead poisoning can cause learning and developmental problems and at very high levels can cause comas, seizures and even death. Children are more prone to lead poisoning as they absorb 30 - 75% of lead that is ingested compared to only 11% absorbed by adults. Absorption rates are also high when lead particles are inhaled. Up to 50% of inhaled lead can be absorbed into the body while less than 1% of lead is absorbed when it comes in contact with skin.
Sources of LeadLead can be found in the surface paint of certain toys and household products despite a current ban on surface paint containing more than 600 parts per million lead. Lead is also used as a softener and stabilizer in plastic toys and vinyl products. While lead in plastics is not currently banned, it does not mean that plastics which contain lead are safe. As the plastic is exposed to sunlight, air, and detergents, the chemical bond breaks between the lead and plastic and forms a dust. Lead can also be found in high amounts in children's jewelry and ceramics. |
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