High Level of Lead Found in Toys from China

Jessica Smagacz

Contributor

0 CommentsPrint ArticleSubscribe

The Seattle Post-Intelligencer reported the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Consumer Product Safety Commission removed 499 cartons of toy jewelry made in China. The shipment was headed for Marietta, Georgia. After the toys were tested, the results showed high concentrations of lead. The test results were so high for lead that they violated the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.

Lead is a toxic metal that was once used in many products found around and inside our homes. Lead can cause serious health effects. Children who are six years old or younger are the most at risk.

For more information on the dangers of lead and lead poisoning, check out the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The most common sources of lead poisoning include lead contaminated soil, lead contaminated dust, and lead-based paint that is deteriorating.

Lead poisoning is the largest environmental health threat for children under the age of six. Children who live in older homes may swallow lead paint chips that fall or peel off form the walls or they can inhale the dust. This type of lead poisoning can lead to mental retardation, behavioral problems, brain injury, and learning disabilities.