These threats still keep lead high on our environmental agenda. The specific ways in which lead hinders growth and affects human behavior are well documented around the world. When young children are exposed to lead, the effects may be permanent and irreversible . Lead poisoning not only has been shown to cause learning disabilities, it is frequently a hidden cause of hyperactivity. When a mother is pregnant, lead leaches across the placenta into the fetus.
Adults can suffer from lead-based illnesses too.
The most dramatic reduction in environmental lead has come from the phasing out of lead additives in gasoline. This progress still stands as the most important benchmark in the war against excess lead. These actions, combined with landmark local efforts, such as those of Dick Tobin in the Philadelphia Health Department, have shone a light on the misery caused by this silent contaminant. EPA has fought the battle against excess lead in the inner cities and in the mountain villages of Pennsylvania. There are many examples of how careful science, close coordination with local officials, and full public participation can help improve the environment and protect public health.