Fortunately, lead poisoning in children is a preventable pediatric health problem. In recognition of this new biomedical and epidemiological data about lead poisoning at low doses, the Center for Disease Control announced a plan to eradicate lead poisoning in children entitled the Strategic Plan for the Elimination of Childhood Lead Poisoning. Primary prevention efforts involve identifying and eliminating lead hazards before children are poisoned. Lead in the Environment Lead is ubiquitous in the environment since the advent of industrialization. Major sources of environmental lead exposure are leaded paint, auto emissions, food and drinking water.
Lead based paint remains the most common source of environmental lead exposure.
Unique characteristics of children and the consequences of adult exposure render children a high risk population. Children's developmental behaviors and physiological differences make them a vulnerable population. Adult lead exposure is subsequently a pediatric concern. Grave danger also lies in lead toxicity of pregnant women resulting in transplacental lead exposure which places the viability of the growing fetus at risk. Physiological Effects Physiological effects of lead toxicity are noted in virtually every system.