Irreversible Damage
Recently on television, a program showed a child around the age of
three electrocuting herself by placing a pair of scissors in a live outlet.
No doubt, many a parent placed plastic outlet protectors in accessible outlets
that night. Children between the age of one and three years of age are
naturally curious and oblivious at times to danger. They believe that
the best way to experience and understand something is by touching it
and then of course placing it in their mouths to taste it. This is why
they are more prone to lead poisoning than an adult is in the same environment.
In the U.S., there are almost one million children every year
diagnosed with elevated blood lead levels high enough to cause
irreversible damage to their health. All it would take is a blood test
to prevent this incredible waste of human potential.
The ultimate dream of a parent for their child is for them to fulfill
their potential. Lead poisoning nips that dream right in the proverbial
bud.
A child's potential to lead a normal healthy life, or to be the next
Einstein, Beethoven, and yes even Michael Jordan can be affected by lead
poisoning. Decreased intelligence, impaired neurobehavioral development,
decreased stature and growth and impaired hearing acuity have all been
associated with even low blood lead levels.
If you or someone you know, lives in a house built before 1978
have it checked for lead based paint. Also familiarize yourself with
the other sources of lead in your environment, such as: batteries,
ammunition, leaded pipes and old ceramics. Remember irreversible means "You can't fix it"!
Lead Poisoning Information Resources
1. National Center for Environmental Health:
*Managing Elevated Blood Lead Levels Among Young Children: -
Recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Childhood Lead
Poisoning Prevention. March 2002
*1-888-232-6789 (For a free copy)
www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead
2. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
-Occupational and Environmental Health Clinics
-ATSDR Toxicological Profile on Lead
-ATSDR Case Studies in Environmental Medicine- Lead Toxicity
-1-888-422-8737
www.atsdr.cdc/tfacts13.html
3. Physicians experienced in treating lead-poisoned patients
Contact your State or Local Health Official.
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