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The affects of lead-based paint on children is a serious issue that is affecting millions of families each year. Because of the presence of lead-based paint in lower income housing, research is finding that among all children between the ages of 0 and 6 living in poverty are being hit the hardest (Jacobs et al, 2002). Of this group, the largest minority population affected is that of the non-Hispanic black population (“Child Trends”, 2003). It is estimated that 55% of all black children living in poverty have elevated levels of lead in their blood (Dugbatey et al, 2005). There has been legislature passed to prevent lead from invading our communities, but still there is a serious problem at hand. How do Social Workers address this issue, become an advocate for its’ victims, and prevent its spread?
One has to understand the issue before they are able to address its faults. Lead was prevalent in society up until 1978 when 13.5 million children had elevated levels of lead in their blood. At that time lead was used in both paint and gasoline. As stated on Wikepedia, realizing the severe consequences of the continued use of lead, “The Consumer Product Safety Commission outlawed the use of lead-based paint in all residential homes” (2007). However, there are still an estimated 38 million housing units infected with lead-based paints (Jacobs et al, 2002). Currently, 16% of all children in lower income housing between the ages 0 to 6 are affected by lead poisoning (“Child Trends”, 2003).
Lead poisoning in children can lead to many different health issues. High levels (levels higher than 10 pg/dL) of lead in blood can lead to problems in the brain, kidneys, and bone marrow. Lower levels (levels less than 10pg/dL but greater than 0.7pg/dL) can result in issues closely associated with ADD or ADHD. These issues can range from problems paying attention to a lower than average IQ (American Academy of Family Physicians, 2008).
Since lead poisoning is...