Q. Main effects of chronic lead?
Lead, even at relatively low levels of exposure can cause severe health effects. Exhaust from vehicles using unleaded petrol serves as an important source of lead in the atmosphere. Lead may also present in industrial wastes, paints, ceramic glazes, cosmetics and ultimately may pollute not only the air we breathe but also the soil and water. Several surveys have detected high levels of lead in different foodstuffs, drinking water and seafoods like shrimps. It affects the human nervous system, . production of blood cells, kidney, reproductive system and behaviour. It increases the risk for premature birth and can induce miscarriage. The main effects of chronic lead poisoning are seen on the blood cells, nervous, gastrointestinal, reproductive and renal systems. Some of the symptoms of acute poisoning, which occurs on consuming single large doses of the toxin afe tiredness, abdominal discomfort, irritability and anaemia.