Metropolis Healthcare, the pathology major, has reported that of the 733 blood samples it analyzed in a dedicated study revealed that 23.47 per cent were tested positive with lead poisoning. The lab major used high sensitivity technology like ICPMS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) and GFAAS (Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry) for the analysis of lead.

According to a WHO study, 1,43,000 fatal cases of lead poisoning have been reported annually. Around 6 lakh new lead exposure cases of children with intellectual disabilities are reported. In growing children, lead poisoning causes low IQ, hyperactivity, attention deficit, learning disabilities and anemia.

Lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust in older buildings are the most common sources of lead poisoning in children. Other sources include contaminated air, water and soil. Lead also causes long-term harm in adults, including increased risk of high blood pressure and kidney damage. Adults who work with batteries, do home renovations or work in auto repair shops may also be exposed to lead. It can induce brain, kidney, stomach, heart, hearing, muscle and fertility damage. Exposure of pregnant women to high levels of lead can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth and low birth weight, as well as minor malformations. Women with high blood lead levels develop early osteoporosis, lower backache, joint pain and persistent anemia.

The data represents patient sample testing in clinically suspected individuals and hence the percentage of positivity seen cannot be extrapolated to general population. However, possibility of lead toxicity exists across all age groups and should be considered in appropriate clinical settings.

Commenting on the study, Dr. Sandeep Warghade, consulting pathologist, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd, said that major sources of blood lead include leaded contaminated soil, drinking water, petrol emissions, household dust, battery recycling, silver refining, paints especially yellow, pigments, printing presses, ceramic pottery glazes, cosmetics, colours including kumkum, sindoor, spices and Holi colours, children’s toys like crayons and painted pencils, plant foods and traditional medicines.

Lead poisoning cases in young children are high because of licking or eating lead-containing paint when it is peeling off the walls or toys. Lead from a mother’s blood can pass to the fetus during pregnancy, possibly giving rise to genetic disorders. Lead poisoning can be treated if detected at an early stage; taking some simple precautions can help protect yourself and your family, he added.