What are common sources/symptoms of lead poisoning in children?

Tennessee parents may be concerned about the risks to children from lead poisoning. While over the last few decades, fewer children have suffered from lead poisoning, lead continues to be a serious health threat to children. One reason that children are at greater risk from lead toxicity is that their nervous systems and brains are more sensitive than adult nervous systems and brains.

The most common cause of lead poisoning is paint. Lead paint was banned by the government in 1978. Prior to that, lead paint was commonly used in homes. Some unsafe toys may contain lead paint, including older toys or toys manufactured in a foreign country. Lead can also be found in some kinds of metal costume jewelry. Parents who are concerned about lead paint in their homes can have their children’s blood level tested by a health care professional. The symptoms of lead poisoning include anemia, hyperactivity, slow growth, learning problems, hearing problems, headaches and stomach symptoms.

If a child suffers from lead poisoning after coming into contact with a recently manufactured toy or piece of costume jewelry, the parents may seek compensation for medical expenses and emotional suffering. A personal injury attorney may look at the defective product and whether there are other cases pending against the manufacturer and distributor. If there have been other cases of lead poisoning tied to the same product, a class-action lawsuit may be warranted.

Class-action lawsuits allow a group of plaintiffs to try their cases together. This is advantageous for a number of reasons, including costs and time. The foregoing is not intended to constitute legal advice, and a parent who has concerns about these issues may also wish to speak with an attorney who has experience in this area.

Source: Findlaw, “Lead in Toys and Lead Poisoning in Children”, Aug. 6, 2014