Lead Poisoning

Lead Poisoning: As per the WHO estimate nearly 1 million people die annually from lead poisoning.

  • About: Lead is a chemical element with properties like soft, heavy, gray metal that is malleable and corrosion-resistant. It occurs when lead enters the air, water, soil, and buildings.

o UNICEF warns that 800 million children face intellectual disabilities and behavioral disorders due to lead exposure.

  • Common Sources of Lead: Adulterated turmeric, paint, cosmetics (like kajal), traditional medicines, ceramic pottery glazes, cheap cookware, water pipes, and recycled batteries.
  • Diseases caused by lead poisoning: Anemia, hypertension, kidney impairment, and reproductive organ toxicity