Lead Poisoning Awareness Week: Dangers of Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning is caused by the buildup of lead in the body. Often, lead poisoning occurs after months or years of lead buildup in the body. The dangers of lead poisoning are still very much a reality today. Nassau County, New York has recognized the dangers of lead poisoning and has recently taken efforts to educate its residents about lead poisoning.
Last month, during National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW), Nassau County Executive and County Health Commissioner made an attempt to “remind residents that lead poisoning is one of the most preventable childhood health problems.” Nassau County participates in NLPPW to help educate parents and caregivers on the dangers posed by lead poisoning.
Lead Poisoning Safety and Prevention
One of the most common causes of lead poisoning in children is the presence of dust particles from peeling paint. In addition to paint, lead is found in numerous other products and materials, including batteries, painted toys, cosmetics, clay pots and dishes, food, spices, candy, and cosmetics. Furthermore, lead can be found in the air, water, and soil.
The health effects of lead poisoning are serious, in particular for young children. Lead poisoning can significantly impact a child’s growth, behavior, and ability to learn. Children under the age of six are more vulnerable to lead poisoning than any other age group. Young children are particularly vulnerable to long-term brain damage. Lead poisoning, however, is preventable.
The only way to know whether someone is infected with lead poisoning is to undergo a blood test. A blood test measures how much lead is in one system. Importantly, a person with lead poisoning often does not feel sick or exhibit signs and symptoms, which makes it difficult to know whether someone has been infected.
New York has been taking safety measures to prevent lead poisoning, especially in young children. New York State requires healthcare providers to test all children for lead poisoning at the ages of one and two. In addition, New York has implemented various programs and laws to help prevent lead poisoning in children.
For example, the Advisory Council on Lead Poisoning Prevention provides guidance to the Department of Health in order to develop plans, policies, and services that will help prevent and eliminate lead poisoning in children. In addition, the Nassau County Department of Health helps parents who have children with elevated blood levels. The department will inspect homes to identify possible causes of lead poisoning.
Contact a New York Lead Poisoning Attorney
If you request your building owner to fix peeling paint in your apartment and the owner refuses, contact a New York lead poisoning attorney to find out how to protect your rights. OR, if you or your child is suffering from lead poisoning, you should contact an experienced New York lead poisoning attorney for help.
Peters Berger Koshel & Goldberg P.C. employs a team of experienced New York lead poisoning attorneys who will fight for you and your family’s rights. Contact a lead poisoning attorney today for a free consultation at 1-800-836-7801 or 718-596-7800.