Lead is a naturally occurring bluish-gray metal found in small amounts in the earth's crust. Lead can be found in all parts of our environment. Much of it comes from human activities including burning fossil fuels, mining, and manufacturing. Lead has many different uses. It is used in the production of batteries, ammunition, metal products (solder and pipes), and devices to shield X-rays. Because of health concerns, lead from gasoline, paints and ceramic products, caulking, and pipe solder has been dramatically reduced in receant years.
> Lead itself does not break down, but lead compounds are changed by sunlight, air, and water.
> When lead is released to the air, it may travel long distances before settling to the ground.
> Once lead falls onto soil, it usually sticks to soil particles.
> Movement of lead from soil into groundwater will depend
on the type of lead compound and the characteristics of
the soil.
> Much of the lead in inner-city soils comes from old
houses painted with lead-based paint.
> The glass of RCT (computer monitor, TV) contains large amount of lead.
Lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. The most sensitive is the central nervous system, particularly in children. Lead also damages kidneys and the reproductive system. The effects are the same whether it is breathed or swallowed. At high levels, lead may decrease reaction time, cause weakness in fingers, wrists, or ankles, and possibly affect the memory. Lead may cause anemia, a disorder of the blood. It can also damage the male reproductive system. The connection between these effects and exposure to low levels of lead is uncertain.
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