Lead Toxicity in Children: A Public Health Issue

Maisun Embirsh

doi:10.54361/ljmr.152003

Authors

Maisun Embirsh M. S. Department of medical technology; The Higher Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Alzahra, Libya Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54361/ljmr.152003

Keywords:

lead (pb), blood lead level BLL, neurotoxicity, chelation therapy

Abstract

Lead poisoning, also known as plumbism is a type of heavy metal poisoning caused by the exposure to lead metal and the excessive absorption of the metal particles into the blood circulation. Lead poisoning can also be recognized as a major public health concern. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization stated that a blood lead level of 10 μg/dL or above is a cause for concern. There are many undeniable evidence that associate lead at different exposure levels with a wide range of health and social effects, including mild intellectual impairment, hyperactivity, shortened concentration span, poor academic performance by students in early stages of learning, aggressive behavior, and hearing impairment. Lead has an impact on major organ systems, including the heart, liver, brain, kidneys, and the circulatory system, eventually in severe cases may lead to coma and death. The removal of lead from the child's environment is the first line treatment and after determining the blood lead level chelation therapy can be administered. It's up to health professionals and decision-makers to look in depth on the serious impact of lead heavy metal on the wellbeing and health of children in our community.

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