CDC warns that lead poisoning can occur even at lower levels
A report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that lead poisoning can occur a levels lower than 10 micrograms, which is the generally accepted standard. Even if there are no obvious signs of problems, lower lead blood levels could result in diminished IQ and intellectual development problems.
There is no officially established threshold for what blood lead level constitutes lead poisoning. However, the CDC indicated in 1991 that a lead level of 10 micrograms per deciliter of blood should cause the doctor to take protective steps. This level, which is the same number used in Canada and Britain, has become the guideline for doctors when determining whether a child should be referred for further evaluation.
Lead poisoning can have a devastating impact on young children and their families. In addition to lowering IQ scores, higher lead levels could be associated with:
- Nervous system injury
- Brain injury
- Seizures or Convulsions
- Mental retardation
- Coma
- Death
The report regarding low levels of lead poisoning will be published in the November 2007 issue of the journal “Pediatrics”. In the article, the CDC asks doctors to be more aware of lead poisoning symptoms and to talk to parents of children diagnosed with low levels about nutrition changes and steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of further lead exposure.
According to CDC estimates, about 2% of children between 1 and 5 years old have lead poisoning. While there has been a lot of publicity recently about lead contained in several toys which have been recalled, most cases of lead poisoning diagnosed each year are linked to lead based paint which is present in many homes throughout the United States built before 1978.
Even though lead paint was banned nearly thirty years ago, many poorly maintained rental properties still contain the paint, which could be flaking off of the walls. If a young child or baby eats or sucks on lead paint chips, a permanent injury to the brain could result even at lead blood levels.
LEAD POISONING LAWYERS
The lead poisoning lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. investigate potential claims in Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, Pennslvania and throughout the United States. If your child or family member has been diagnosed with an elevated blood lead level , request a free lead poisoning claim evaluation.
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