Even at low doses, Pb exposure is associated with changes in processes of the body. Children and fetuses are especially susceptible to low doses of Pb, often suffering central nervous system damage or slowed growth. Low-level Pb poisoning may have nonspecific symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain, and irritability. High blood-lead levels in children may cause permanent deficiencies in growth and intelligence. In adults, high blood-lead concentrations may cause kidney disorders, infertility, and cancer.
Studies also indicate a correlation between high blood-lead levels and increased blood pressure.
Pb was monitored at three sites, one in Oklahoma County and two in Tulsa County. The site on 31 st Street in Tulsa County was permanently discontinued in April. Figure 1 illustrates the trend of maximum quarterly averages for Oklahoma and Tulsa counties. At the time this table was prepared, the monitoring data presented herein had not been completely quality assured. Although the data are accurate and valid to the best of our knowledge, they should not be used for official purposes until verified by quality assurance.