In May, 2015 ideastream launched a multiple media Be Well special on childhood lead poisoning. In some Cleveland neighborhoods, it's estimated as many as one in four children has an elevated lead level. Cleveland's problem stems mainly from chipping lead paint used in older homes that have not been maintained properly. The crisis in Flint, Michigan in which children have been poisoned through tainted water sparks new worries. Within the last few days new concerns have arisen about high levels of lead found in the water supply in Sebring, Ohio.
Experts agree preventing lead poisoning from happening to children in the first place should be our top priority. But as recent events show that's not always possible. And as long as funding to fix old homes remains in peril and poverty keeps families from being able to fix or move from contaminated locations … the problem will persist. That leaves local and national advocates pushing for better ways to help poisoned children. Producer Kay Colby explains how experts are turning to science and research on the brain to inform their efforts.
To view another story about a Cleveland family's struggle with lead poisoning and what research shows about lead's impact on the brains of children click here.
To listen and watch all of ideastream's radio and TV content on childhood lead poisoniong click here.