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Lead pollution
Humans and the unborn child
High blood lead levels can cause birth defects in unborn children, causing them to be born with low IQ, have slow physical and mental development, shortened attention spans, behavioral problems and become premature babies. Lead affects virtually all the systems in our body. When in our bodies, lead can cause damage to our internal organs, brain, nervous systems, sperm count, reproductive system and even bring about osteoporosis and seizures. When accumulated in high amounts, lead can be fatal.
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Animals
Lead intoxication is a common disease in farm animals, especially those found near scientific industries and busy roads. When animals, such as dairy cows, are intoxicated, it results in a loss of appetite, disease changes in skin and hair, and a decline in milk yield and productivity.
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Aquatic Eco-system
Lead can end up in water and soils through corrosion and cannot be broken down, and only converted to other forms. It builds up in the bodies of water and cause lead poisoning to soil organisms. Disturbance from lead can disrupt the health system of phytoplankton, which is an important source of oxygen production in seas and many other marine life. Lead is a very hazardous chemical that not only accumulates in individuals but also have the ability to affect the entire food chain. Refer to water pollution.
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Find out how you can keep safe from lead poisoning.