Exposure to Lead in Gasoline Linked to Millions of Psychiatric Disorders
Study Reveals Lasting Impact of Lead Exposure on Mental Health
A new study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry estimates that exposure to lead in gasoline during childhood has led to millions of excess cases of psychiatric disorders over the last 75 years.
The Study
The study analyzed childhood blood lead levels from 1940 to 2015 and found that the national population experienced an estimated 151 million excess mental health disorders attributable to exposure to lead from car exhaust during children’s early development. The exposure made generations of Americans more depressed, anxious, inattentive or hyperactive, and lowered their capacity for impulse control and made them more inclined to be neurotic.
Lead-Linked Mental Health and Personality Differences
The study found that the exposure to lead had a significant impact on mental health and personality differences, with the greatest lead-linked mental illness burden for Generation Xers born between 1966 and 1970, coinciding with peak use of leaded gasoline in the mid-1960s and mid-1970s.
Prevention is Key
The study’s findings highlight the importance of preventing lead exposure, particularly for children under 6 years old who are most vulnerable to lead poisoning. Reuben, a co-author of the study, emphasized the need for continued efforts to reduce lead exposure, saying, "Prevention is the best way to keep people safe. We’ve done a lot of good in the U.S. reducing lead exposures. Blood lead levels have gone way down, but they could go down further."
Conclusion
The study’s findings underscore the importance of reducing lead exposure and the need for continued efforts to prevent lead poisoning. While the damage may be done for those who were exposed to lead in the past, the study’s findings can inform public health efforts to reduce lead exposure and prevent future harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a safe level of exposure to lead?
A: No, there is no safe level of exposure to lead, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Q: How can I reduce my exposure to lead?
A: Prevention is key. Avoiding lead exposure is the best way to keep you and your family safe. Learn more about lead exposure and how to reduce it at [insert link].
Q: What can I do if I was exposed to lead?
A: If you were exposed to lead, it’s essential to get tested and seek medical attention if necessary. Lead screenings are recommended for all young children, and treatment such as chelation therapy is available to remove the poison if levels are high.
Q: How can I stay informed about lead exposure and prevention?
A: Stay informed by following reputable sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
