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Lean Poison

Definition
Lead poisoning is a result of exposure to lead in the environment. Although lead is no longer used in paints, gasoline, water pipes and other products, some lead-based products still exist and may pose a health hazard. In addition, much lead remains in the environment years after its initial use. Children are particularly susceptible to the effects of lead poisoning.
Lead is toxic to many of your tissues and enzymes. Children are more susceptible to lead poisoning because lead can accumulate in their nervous system as they grow and develop. Death by lead poisoning is uncommon, but dangerous levels of lead in children may cause serious health problems, including lower intelligence and poor school performance.
Lead pipes and deteriorated lead-based paint in older homes and high levels of lead-contaminated house dust are the most common sources of lead poisoning in U.S. children. By removing or avoiding lead sources or with early detection and treatment, you can prevent or limit the harmful effects of lead poisoning.

Symptoms
Lead poisoning may be hard to detect at first, because children who appear healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies. The accumulation of lead usually is gradual, building up unnoticed until levels become dangerous and cause signs and symptoms.
Signs and symptoms in children
The signs and symptoms of lead poisoning in children are nonspecific and may include:
Irritability
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Sluggishness
Abdominal pain
Vomiting
Constipation
Unusual paleness (pallor) from anemia
Learning difficulties

Causes
The cause of lead poisoning is lead found in numerous locations in the environment. Sources of lead contamination include:
Soil.  
Water.
Lead paint.
Household dust.
Some imported canned food. In 1995, the United States banned the use of lead solder for sealing food cans, but some foods still are imported from other countries where lead solder may be used.
Traditional...