According to research done by the Mayo Clinic, Lead poisoning occurs when lead levels build up in the body, causing many complications that can affect all the organs in the body, although lead is known to target the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells (hemoglobin) first. In time, the nervous system also become affected. Toxic lead levels in the blood and body can take months, even years, to detect after dangerous amounts have accumulated. Although, a routine blood test can determine toxic levels of lead in the blood. Some states known for heavy industrial activity or cases high in lead poisoning require young children to be screened regularly for toxic levels, especially for preschool and elementary ages.

Listed below are common sources in which lead can be found:

• Manufactured Products such as batteries, pipes, solder, pottery, some cosmetics and construction supplies such as roofing materials.
• Deposits in the soil that come from paint or gasoline that rest in the soil surface can last for years and cause contamination risks. Locations that are most vulnerable are near high amounts of traffic like the soil near a highway, freeway or industrial areas.
• Paint containing lead is also a big culprit and as late as the 1970's, paints and ceramic glazes containing lead were a hazard to young children which is still a threat today. For children who live in homes that still have lead based paint or play with old toys that have been fashioned with lead based materials are at risk for contamination. Some toys still manufactured today in other countries and nations will lower manufacturing standards are a threat. Always check the manufacturing origin and recalls for toys to ensure safety standards for children.
• Pipes containing lead or that have been soldered with lead are particularly a threat because it leaks into the air as dust or into water that is filtered through the pipes. Many old homes, apartments or buildings with old piping systems should be examined by an inspector to ensure safety standards and point out any contamination threats.
• Foods stored in cans that are manufactured with lead are also a health threat. The United States banned lead in the manufacturing process of canning years ago  but in other parts of the world there are still countries with lower safety regulations that still use lead. Checking the country or origin for food , especially imported brands, can help prevent lead poisoning from ingesting food products that have been contaminated by lead.
• Traditional Medicines and cosmetics manufactured in other countries have been discovered to contain dangerous levels of lead. India and South Asian countries have been know to manufacture medicines that contain lead. The Dominican Republic and other nations have been known to use cosmetics that contain very high levels of lead such as Kohl which is used as an eyeliner, and Litargirio which is a peach-colored powder. Checking the origin of manufacturing for cosmetics and medicines can prevent unnecessary contamination.

Some common symptoms of lead poisoning in both children and adults are:

• Moodiness
• Loss of Appetite
• Tiredness or Fatigue
• Digestive Upset Such as Constipation and Vomiting
• Complications of Anemia
• Learning Difficulties and Confusion
• Slowed Development on Growth or Cognition
• Numbness or Tingling in the Hands, Legs and Feet
• Unexplained Pain
• Reproductive Issues Such as Miscarriage in Women and Low Sperm Count in Men

Common complications of Lead Poisoning in Children are:

• Decreased Muscle and Bone Growth
• Anemia
• Learning and Cognition Delays and Developmental Complications
• Nervous System Damage
• Kidney Damage
• Hearing Difficulties and Damage
• Speech and Language Difficulties
• Behavioral Difficulties

It is important to research the geographic area of residency and if you're at risk, it is important to become routinely tested for lead levels especially with young children in the home. Always have an older home or apartment inspected by a professional and have the tap water tested as well. Lead poisoning can be prevented with proper testing and precautions.

Lead poisoning is just one common aspect to review when it comes to every day common contaminants that can be avoided. Another is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning which, if prevented and screened properly for, can prevent deaths and dangerous side effects.