What is lead poisoning?

Lead poisonings are one of the foremost environmental health problems facing children across the United states today. The primary source of children’s exposure is lead paint found in residential homes. If your child has been poisoned by lead and your residence has tested positive for the presence of lead paint, you may have a cause of action. Each case typically involves a child under twelve (12) years of age with a venous blood lead level of twenty (20) mcg/dL (micrograms per deciliter of whole blood) or greater. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) asserts that based on scientific evidence, lead has been shown to have harmful effects at levels as low as 10 mcg/dL.Very small quantities of lead can poison the immature brain. Children with moderate long-term exposure show reduced short term memory, delayed reaction time, reduced ability to concentrate and diminished scores on IQ tests. Although no comprehensive data is currently available,

the federal government estimates that about 15% of all U.S. preschoolers now have unacceptable levels of lead in their blood, levels that cause subtle but significant impairment of learning skills. Nearly three quarters of United States homes constructed before 1980 contain some lead paint. Most cases of child lead poisoning result from the ingestion and inhalation of lead based paint and particles. However, other sources of lead, such as vinyl mini-blinds and toys, may also be a source of lead hazards.

What injuries occur from lead poisoning?

There are a number of cognitive and bodily injuries that may be attributed to lead poisoning. Injuries caused and exacerbated by lead poisoning are as follows:

• Brain Damage
• Learning Disabilities
• Speech Problems
• Developmental Delays
• Hyperactivity
• Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
• Loss of IQ Points
• Loss of Earning Capacity
• Special Education

For more information on lead poisoning and your legal rights please review the Kane Lead Poisoning Handbook .

Children suffering from lead poisoning may be entitled to compensation from those responsible for their injuries. If your child has ever been exposed to lead with a lead reading of at least 20 mcg/dL and you need help to initiate an investigation into the possibility that your child has suffered damages as a result of lead poisoning, please contact Kane Legal today or fill out the online intake form.