Lead’s health effects

Lead, a metal found in natural deposits, is commonly used in household plumbing materials and water service lines. The greatest exposure to lead is through drinking water (the major sources of lead in drinking water are corrosion of household plumbing systems and erosion of natural deposits. Lead enters the water through contact with the plumbing), or breathing in lead paint chips and dust.

 

It has long been known that lead in drinking water is highly toxic and recent developments have increased the level of concern. Contamination of drinking water with significant levels of lead is much more widespread than previously believed and levels that were once considered safe are now known to be health threats.

 

 Lead is a toxic substance. Even low levels in drinking water, when continuously ingested, will cause a deterioration in health.

Infants, children, pregnant women and fetuses are more vulnerable to lead exposure than others because the lead is more easily absorbed into the sensitive tissue of actively growing bodies. An equal concentration of lead is more destructive in a child than in an adult. Pregnant women should also be especially cautious about lead exposure, because it can cause premature birth, and reduce the birth weight of babies.

 

Lead is considered the number one health threat to children, and the effects of lead poisoning can last a lifetime. Not only does lead poisoning stunt the growth of a child, damage the nervous system and cause learning disabilities, but it is also now linked to crime and anti-social behavior in children (the Wisconsin State Journal, February 7, 1996: "Researchers using a new test that looks for lead in the bones instead of the blood say exposure to the toxic metal may contribute to crime and anti-social behavior in children"). Children six years old and under are most at risk because this is when the brain is developing.

 

Exposure to lead is cumulative over time. High concentrations of lead in the body can cause death or permanent damage to the central nervous system, the brain, and kidneys. This damage commonly results in behavior and learning problems (such as hyperactivity), memory and concentration problems, high blood pressure, hearing problems, headaches, slowed growth, reproductive problems in men and women, digestive problems, muscle and joint pain.