Lead
Historic Perspective
The U.S. delayed recognizing and taking action against the lead threat. France banned lead-based paint in 1920. The U.S. followed suit in 1978.
A concerted effort at the federal level generated considerable success during the late 1990s. While 24 million homes still had lead paint hazards, lead poisoning diminished. In 1996, 10.5% of all children screened had over 10 ug/dL. In 1998 only 7.5% were lead poisoned.
In 1997 the CDC left universal screening in favor of high risk targeted screening directed by local health authorities.
In 2001 they accelerated to High Intensity Targeted Screening (HITS). Inner-city Chicago was the first target. High risk neighborhoods were identified and door-to-door child screening gave 100% coverage. HITS gave risk assessment, lead abatement, and medical assistance.
Some metro areas such as Boston, Massachussetts have adopted the legal stance that "Every person has the right to a safe environment." Boston is experiencing 1,300 child lead poisonings annually. They now have laws surpassing Federal regulations. Property owners are required to eliminate all lead hazards in residences of children under the age of 6.
The lead debacle can be traced to the Roman Empire, circa 50 B.C. Greenland ice dated between 150 B.C. and 50 A.D. contains high levels of a lead isotope native only to Rio Tinto in southern Spain. Rome mined lead exclusively in the Rio Tinto area. Northerly wind currents moved the exposed lead dust into Greenland. Rome used lead heavily to coat pottery and kitchen implements, and in construction of plumbing and aqueducts. Lead poisoning undoubtedly contributed to the demise of the Roman Empire.
More on the Rome & Lead connection.
______________ Developed by Jerry Hash
Extension Housing Associate
Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Department
University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service
Lexington, Kentucky 40546-0276.