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Lead-Based Paint
Exposure
Lead-based paints were used in many homes prior to its banning by the
federal government in 1978. Lead-based paints, as the name implies, contains
lead. Many documented cases of lead poisoning can be attributed to lead
contamination resulting from the degradation of such paints. Lead-based
paints in good condition pose little risk but those that begin to peel,
chip, chalk, or crack do pose a potential health risk.
As lead-based paint products degrade lead can be released into the
surrounding environment in the form of dust. Lead dust can also be formed
and become airborne when lead-based paint is sanded or scrapped. Painted
surfaces when rubbed together can also produce lead dust. The lead dust can
settle and then become airborne again when disturbed by sweeping, vacuuming,
or just walking through a contaminated area. Chips of paint flaking off
exterior surfaces can cause ground contamination.
Health Risks
Lead poisoning can occur when lead is ingested or inhaled. The
concentration of lead in the body will grow over time with continued
exposure. Physical symptoms of lead poisoning in children can include:
damage to the brain and nervous system, behavior and learning problems,
slowed physical development, hearing problems, and chronic headaches. Adults
are also affected and can have: difficulties during pregnancy, reproductive
problems, high blood pressure, digestive problems, nerve disorders, memory
and concentration problems, muscle and joint pain.
Dealing with Lead-Based Paint in Your Home
It is sometimes better to assume that if your home was build prior to
1980, it contains lead based paints (Even though lead-based paints were
banned in 1978, it is certain that some builders and paint suppliers
continued to sell and use existing stocks beyond that date). The Housing and
Urban Development department of the federal government (HUD) has a 16 page
brochure giving tips on dealing with lead paint.
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Physical symptoms of
lead
poisoning in
children can include:
1. Damage to brain & nervous system
2. Behavioral & learning problems
3. Slowed physical development
4. Hearing problems
5. Chronic headaches
Physical symptoms of
lead
poisoning in
adults can include:
1.
Difficulties during pregnancy
2.
Reproductive problems
3.
High blood pressure
4.
Digestive problems
5.
Nerve disorders
6.
Memory & concentration problems
7.
Muscle &
joint pain |
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