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Cases of lead
poisoning occur among children ...
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Most cases of lead
poisoning in the United States occur among children who eat chips of
lead-containing paint that have peeled off the ceilings and walls of old
buildings. Lead paints were widely used for home interiors until the 1940's,
and in many city slums, where buildings have been poorly kept. 15 per cent to
20 per cent of the children between the ages of one and five show evidence of
lead ingestion. It is estimated that 3 per cent to 5 per cent have
potentially toxic levels of lead in their blood. In many large cities,
hundreds of cases among children are reported each year, but it is believed
that the actual number may be much higher. In industries that use lead or
lead components, lead poisoning among workers is a potentially serious hazard,
but present control measures are so stringent that cases of industrial
poisoning are rare.
Symptoms of lead
poisoning develop slowly after several months of lead ingestion. Early
symptoms are mild diarrhea, anemia and irritability. As the level of lead rises,
stupor and convulsions occur, often leading to death. The prevention of lead
poisoning is therefore of prime importance. An effective measure program
includes making the public aware of the danger, testing paint in dilapidated
buildings, examining children for evidence of lead ingestion, and keeping
children out of unsafe houses. Stringent checks on the level of lead
discharged from motorized vehicles and factories should be regularly carried
out.
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Summary: Cases of lead poisoning
occur among children who eat chips of lead-containing paint peeled off from
ceiling and walls of old houses. This is especially so in slums and large
cities in industries that use lead or its components, workers are also exposed
to lead poisoning. The symptoms include diarrhea, anemia, irritability and
convulsions. To curb lead poisoning, awareness campaigns should be carried out.
Children should be checked for lead ingestion. Paint in old buildings and
discharges from vehicles should be monitored closely.
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