ENVIRONMENTAL LEAD EXPOSURE : ARE WE AT RISK?

Abstract

This paper discusses the new evidence linking lead at low levels of environmental exposure to adverse effects on aspects of children's neurobehavioural development. Risk factors for environmental exposure an discussed, with particular reference to the role of atmospheric lead. Epidemiological aspects of childhood lead exposure in South Africa ate outlined, with consideration given to the need for appropriate intervention strategies.

Lead has received an inordinate amount of attention in the scientific and medical literature worldwide over recent years. Pan of the reason for this is that lead, as an environmental pollutant, is somewhat unique. It has been used over thousands of years in hundreds of products and as a result is one of the most widely dispersed pollutants in the environment. It also has a particularly long residence time in the environment and has accumulated in significant amounts which have given rise to concern regarding the health impact on human populations.