Lead Poisoning
Lead is a chemical element that has been used in paint, gas for cars, weights, pottery and many other things and can be very harmful to humans who swallow or breathe in the lead, which is often in the form of dust.
Effects of Lead Poisoning
Children from 6 months to 6 years, are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning and can get very sick from lead poisoning. A child who swallows or breathes in lead may suffer damage to his or her brain, nerves, blood, and other parts of the body. This could result in the following:
- Behavior problems
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- A lowered IQ
- Mental retardation
- Possibly death
Resources
Visit/contact the following sources for more information:
Videos
Cleaning Up Lead Dust in Home and Car (English), (Spanish)
Keeping Lead at Work (English), (Spanish)
Lead in Spices, Tea, Makeup, and Ceremonial Powders (English), (Spanish), (Burmese), (Karen)
Prevent Lead in Children (English), (Spanish)
Prevent Lead in Pregnancy (English), (Spanish)
Local Agencies
Orange County Health Department
State Agencies
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS)
Federal Agencies
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Information on Research, Screening, & Lead Poisoning Prevention Tips
Environmental Protection Agency
Serves as the National Lead Information Center
National Safety Council
Information on Preventing Unintentional Injuries and Death
Office of Lead Hazard Control - A HUD site with information on lead hazards in housing
Other Agencies
American Association of Pediatrics