As early as 1943, it was reported that children recovering from clinical lead poisoning exhibited severe attentional problems, including increased aggressive behavior, learning difficulties and school failure. Lead toxicity is a very common problem. Typical sources of environmental lead include paint, water and soil. While lead toxicity occurs in families at all socioeconomic levels, the rate is much higher in economically disadvantaged families.
Lead toxicity is a treatable condition.
Children with elevated blood lead levels should be screened for iron and zinc deficiencies. Early detection, intervention and ongoing prevention are the best approaches to the problem of childhood lead exposure. Accordingly, the Academy recommends that child and adolescent psychiatrists include environmental lead exposure in the differential diagnosis of children exhibiting symptoms of conduct and behavior disorders, learning disabilities and attentional problems. For children who exhibit any of the signs or symptoms described above, and who are also at risk for lead exposure, the results of a recent blood lead level should be documented. Strategic Plan for the Elimination of Childhood Lead Poisioning.