In 2017, the Centers for Disease Control has reported that over 351,454 children were poisoned with lead. While children across America were affected, there were some states that had significantly more cases than others; Pennsylvania having the highest number of cases at 58,346. The situation seems dire, but authorities and local communities are continuously implementing projects that will prevent more cases in the future.

Lead poisoning can occur in a number of ways because the toxic material was once a commonly used ingredient for many household items. There is a high chance that older houses contain lead because it was an ingredient in most paints until it was banned in 1976. Older water pipes are another common source for lead, and it can be the most dangerous because it contaminates the drinking water. Other common sources are older toys, contaminated dust, imported canned goods, and soil.

A kid can be poisoned two ways: short-term overexposure to high amounts of lead and long-term repeated exposure to the substance. Either way, lead will do a lot of damage, especially to children because they have more vulnerable bodies. Once the substance enters the body, it will affect the brain, liver, kidneys, and bones. Overexposure will lead to abdominal pain, constipation, headaches, weakness, and nausea. In more severe cases, the organs can be permanently damaged. Children who are poisoned may also experience developmental delays.

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Fortunately, the government is doing a lot to ensure that Americans are protected from lead poisoning. This year, they passed the Lead-Safe Housing for Kids Act (2019), which would require the US Department of Housing and Urban Development to update lead poisoning prevention measures in federally-assisted housing. On top of that, they are monitoring older houses that were possibly painted with lead paint through older legislations that were passed.

On an individual level, we can do many simple things to prevent lead poisoning. Washing our hands and kids’ toys is the most basic way to reduce the spread of lead particles. Dusting and vacuuming often will help lessen the amount of lead-contaminated dust particles that may have come in from outside. Refraining from drinking hot tap water will also reduce the chances of drinking the lead in pipes since it usually spreads in warmer water. It’s important to note, however, that these practices will help reduce the chances, but one could still get poisoned. If any of the symptoms are experienced, contact your doctor immediately to stop the damage.