Lead is a soft metal naturally occurring in the Earth’s crust. It has been determined, however, that lead has no useful purpose in the human body and acts as a toxin. It takes the place of essential minerals, such as calcium, potassium, and iron, which are vital to the construction and repair of bones, organs, and blood. Lead exposures are a major health concern, especially in young children under the age of six. 

 

Children, due to their smaller body mass and higher metabolism, are affected by lead exposure much more severely than adults. They ingest lead through daily hand-to-mouth activities and may develop severe attention deficit disorders, irreversible brain injury, learning disabilities, and aggressive behaviors. The symptoms of lead poisoning often mimic other afflictions such as flu, colic, or general malaise.