Rhode Island Lead Poisoning

September 30, 2003
"Lead Poisoning Serious Problem for Rhode Island"

CENTRAL FALLS-Community educators Keo Phrathep and Helena Friedmann have spent hundreds of hours informing parents and children of the dangers of lead poisoning in a state with childhood lead poisoning rates that are twice the national average. Although approximately one in every six children in Central Falls were infected last year, Phrathep and Friedmann found that many people are unaware of the problem.

“Most people we talk to have no knowledge of lead poisoning,” Phrathep said. “They’ve heard of it, but don’t know anything about it or how it’s caused.”

Rhode Island state law mandates annual blood tests for lead for every resident under age 6. Last year, the state’s number of cases of child lead poisoning was around 2,860, double the national average. The amount of lead in the blood varied from “safe” levels to more than 20 micrograms per deciliter of blood—an amount automatically requiring a home inspection and full check-up by a doctor. At least 14 Rhode Island children were hospitalized for lead poisoning last year.

Effects of lead poisoning include permanent brain damage, as well as behavior and learning problems. Pregnant women are also affected, as lead dust can cause serious developmental issues in unborn children.

 

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW HAS BEEN AFFECTED BY LEAD POISONING, CONTACT A RHODE ISLAND LEAD POISONING LAWYER!

 

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