Such a link has been speculated on in the past, as scientists took closer looks at the effects of heavy metals on the brain. But the University of Kentucky study said there appears to be no harm from mercury fillings. More than half of children below age 12 in seven major Indian cities suffer from serious lead poisoning, according to a new study. The findings were released at an international conference on lead poisoning prevention and treatment that began Monday in Bangalore, the capital of the southern Indian state of Karnataka. The major sources of lead poisoning were automobile fuel, food can soldering, lead-based paint, leaded cooking utensils and drinking water systems.
Lead poisoning can lead to permanent brain damage, particularly among young children.
Men with strong grips are less likely to develop disabilities in old age. A firm handshake may make a good first impression, but its real importance might not be felt for years. A study found that middle-aged men with strong grips are less likely to develop disabilities in old age. Good muscle strength in middle age can give people a margin of safety in later years, when they may face long periods of inactivity after surgery or illness, the researchers said in Journal of the American Medical Association. At the final exam, researchers timed the men's walking speed and checked their ability to rise from a chair.