The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
Abstract
Blood lead levels are routinely measured in pediatric clinics due to the well-documented detrimental effects of lead exposure on neurodevelopment and consequently cognition. Reading difficulties, impaired detailed movement, and depressed reaction time are three areas, among others, implicated in lead toxicity (Needleman, 1990). Furthermore, lead toxicity can be of particular concern in pregnant women, as placental transmission is viable (Gundacker & Hengstschläger, 2012, as cited in Sun et al., 2018). Future research investigating the transmission of lead from mother to fetus may provide insight into the timeline of in utero lead transmission and consequently the ability to direct anti-toxicity treatment to specific points. Extensive research has been conducted to better understand lead’s effects on development as well as to investigate potential treatment options, with chelation therapy showing some promise. However, research suggests that chelation treatment, specifically with succimer, can detrimentally affect cognition (Stangle, 2007). Further investigation is needed in determining the level of safety of chelation therapy and its risk-benefit profile in the treatment of toxicity. Additionally, an understanding of where lead exposure most occurs could enable the development of effective preventative measures.
Recommended Citation
Chana Birnbaum. (2024). Lead Exposure: Neurological Implications, Transmission in Utero, and Treatment. The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences, 18(1), 5-13. Retrieved from https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol18/iss1/2
