Submitted by Steve Jasiecki
When people think of lead contamination they often think of lead in the water supply or peeling paint chips from older homes. However, lead can still be found in a variety of products, including fishing tackle, toys, art supplies, solder, antique items and even cosmetics.
Although lead paint, leaded gas and other products using lead have been banned in the U.S., items containing lead may still be lurking around the house.
Lead is a neurotoxin that accumulates in bones and soft tissues. It damages the nervous system and causes neurological disorders. Behavior problems and brain damage have been linked to lead exposure.
Lead poisoning is the nation's number one preventable environmental health problem facing young children. Although anyone can develop lead poisoning, children under the age of six, pregnant women and others who work in lead-related industries are at greatest risk," Jasiecki said.
Lead poisoning may be misdiagnosed since it mimics other types of ailments. The only way to tell if someone has led poisoning is with a blood test.
To learn more about lead, a virtual workshop, Take The Lead On Lead," is being hosted by the Atlantic Cape May Sustainable Jersey Hub in conjunction with the Sustainable Downbeach green teams, noon, Friday, July 17.
Rutgers Environmental Steward and Program Coordinator of the Southern Regional Lead and Healthy Homes Coalition, Kelly McLaughlin, will be hosting the presentation. Prevention, lead exposure and where to find local resources for education, testing and remediation will be discussed during this presentation. This workshop will be recorded for future reference.
There is no cost to attend, but you'll need to register.
Registration is required to receive the Zoom link to the meeting.
You can register here: https://bit.ly/LeadonLead17JulyWorkshop
Lead poisoning is entirely preventable, and the best way to address it is to understand the risks and causes in order to take action to prevent exposure. Additional information about lead can be found at the Centers for Disease control and Prevention Website:
https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/default.htm
