The condition is characterized by a decline in kidney function and reduced amount of urine over a long period of time. Lead is a common pollutant worldwide.
Past studies show the negative effect of heavy lead exposure on the kidneys.
However, few have determined the effects of exposure to low levels of lead. It remains unknown how lead contributes to the development of chronic renal insufficiency. A study published in a recent issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine looks at the link between lead and the decline of kidney function. In addition, researchers studied whether a procedure known as lead chelation is an effective treatment. Lead chelation therapy is when a compound binds to lead then removes it from the blood.