These sources are considered
major because of the large number of people exposed. Other sources
can result in high exposure in individual cases.
Lead in Paint:
The amount of Lead-based paint in housing can be significant. Tens of
millions of housing units contain at least some lead-based paint.
Children living in homes with lead-based paint can become exposed
to that lead by directly eating chips of paint or by chewing on protruding
painted surfaces. The most common route of exposure, however, is the
ingestion of lead bearing dust that is generated by paint when it
deteriorates, chalks or is disturbed through renovation or even abrasion
from opening or closing of windows and doors. Even in these indirect
ways, lead-based paint can be a source of severe lead poisoning. Children
absorb a significantly higher percentage of ingested lead than adults
with absorption enhanced by malnutrition and poor diet. Several studies
have confirmed the link between dust lead and childhood blood levels.
HUD estimates that 57 million units built prior to 1978 have lead-based
paint on the exterior of the buildings, the interior or both. At
least 20 million units represent excessive levels of lead dust or
unsound paint. These units are at an immediate risk to the environment.
The amount of lead which is on a wall depends on several factors,
including the concentration of lead in the paint and the number
of layers of paint and their thickness. The concentration of lead
on a painted surface is generally measured in milligrams per square
centimeter.
Health Effects:
The severity of lead contamination is only now being realized. Children
are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning. Lead in the body can
cause serious damage to the central and peripheral nervous system,
the cardiovascular system, and the kidneys. Exposure to high concentrations
of lead can cause retardation, convulsions, coma and death. Even
low concentrations of lead are known to slow down a child's normal
development and cause learning and behavioral problems.
Testing Methods:
- Paint Chip Analysis
Paint chip sampling is considered the most accurate method for determining the level of lead in paint. The error factor is moderate. Accuracy in most laboratories is quite high.
Resources for Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention:
- Environmental Protection Agency:
Toxic Substances Control Hotline (202)
554-1404
Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800)
426-4791
- National Lead Information Center:
Lead Hotline (800) 424-LEAD-FYI
Clearinghouse (800) 424-LEAD
- National Center for Lead-Safe Housing: (410) 992-0712
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