The Dangers of Lead Poisoning among Children

Lead is a dangerous and toxic heavy metal that can cause catastrophic health problems among children. Some of the serious adverse effects of lead poisoning include brain damage, learning disabilities, behavioral problems and growth impediments. How does lead poisoning occur? The most common cause of lead poisoning is brought about by ingesting or breathing in contaminated sources. When ingested in high levels, lead poisoning can cause seizures, coma or even death.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 250,000 children in the United States between the ages of 1 and 5 have blood levels greater than 10 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood. That is the level at which treatment should be sought for the affected child.
Some of the common sources of lead in the United States are children’s toys – typically those imported from other countries, some varieties of imported candy, glazed ceramics and china, mini-blinds, car batteries, beauty products and some inks. Some commercial buildings and residences also contain excessive amounts of lead in their interior paint. A few preventive steps you can take to prevent lead poisoning is by washing toys and hands, planting grass on bare soil and wiping horizontal surfaces that can collect lead dust. Parents would also be well-advised to check online for recalls relating to these defective products.
The most common health symptoms of lead poisoning include stomach aches, cramping, constipation, nausea, vomiting, unexplained fatigue, headaches and muscle weakness. Lead poisoning can also cause behavioral changes among children such as increased aggression, hyperactivity, learning disability, lack of interest in playing, loss of appetite and decreased IQ.
If your child has suffered these or other serious complications due to lead poisoning, the negligent party, whether it is a manufacturer of a tainted product or a property owner who failed to replace paint which has unacceptable levels of lead, can be held liable. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, diagnostics and other related costs.
The New York personal injury lawyers of the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Wilhelm have represented many young victims of lead poisoning. We have successfully obtained compensation for the injuries and damages sustained by these children and their families. If your child is a victim of lead poisoning in New York, please contact our law offices at 1-800-WORK-4-YOU (1-800-967-5496) for a free consultation and comprehensive claim evaluation.
1-800-RADIO-LAW 1-888-WYPADEK 1-800-LAS-LEYES
Please visit our website: www.work4youlaw.com
Source: Daily News Online