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Simply Moms and the writers of and for this site can not assure all information is correct with in these articles. They are the expressed opinions and ideas of the writer only. These articles are not intended to replace the advice of any professional in regards to health and or your personal well being or that of your family.
Lead and the danger it creates
By: Jennifer Gove
Is lead harmful?
Lead is highly toxic. At a low level of exposure lead can cause learning disabilities, stunted growth, hearing problems, attention deficit disorder, lack of muscular coordination and kidney failure. At high levels lead can cause coma, retardation and even death. Lead poisoning is more common in young children because they put things in their mouths and ingest small particles.
How do I find out if my child has lead exposure?
You can not simply look at someone and tell they have lead exposure, though over time there would be symptoms. If you think you or your child has been exposed to lead you must have a blood test performed by your doctor right away. This test would show if there are elevated levels of lead in the blood. Your doctor could then recommend treatment.
Could my home have lead in it?
Lead-based paint was banned in 1960. How ever older homes could contain old paint layers that contain lead. Peeling and chipping paint would pose a hazard if it contains lead. The best way to find out if your older home contains lead is to test for it with a simple test. You can purchase these at most hardware stores or even online.
Where else is lead commonly found?
Before 1980, lead was commonly used in many products because of its low cost and physical properties. You would commonly find it in gasoline, paints, ceramics, pipes, batteries and even some cosmetics, as well as many other products! Since then, federal and state regulatory standards have helped to minimize, and almost eliminate, the use of this very dangerous substance.
How do I know if my children’s toys are safe?
Many Americans are in a state of panic over their children’s toys. With so many recalls one begins to wonder if many of the things our children are playing with are safe.
The first step to keeping your child safe from lead or any other potential dangers linked to toys, is to stay informed. You can stay up-to-date with current recalls at www.recalls.gov. Some parents have found organizations that will test toys for lead. Or, you can purchase home testing kits. However, the effectiveness of these tests is questionable. Many parents have even gone as far as to stop purchasing toys made in China all together.
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