Lead Through History
The Next Chapter, Lead Paint
Lead paint has been around for thousands of years and was finally linked to health issues about a hundred years ago. Due to the vibrant colors and durability of the paint it was widely used for painting homes, inside and out. The dangers of lead paint are particularly enhanced in children as lead has a sweet taste which encourages young children to ingest the paint chips and put toys painted with lead paint in their mouths.
Much like asbestos, lead is dangerous when it is introduced into the air. Lead causes massive organ issues and even brain damage. The danger when children are exposed to lead is that it impairs their development and the effects are life long. Lead can accumulate over time and cause compounded damage, particularly if the exposure is unknown.
What Can Be Done?