Stuff You Should Know – Selects: What Makes Lead So Poisonous?

Intro

In this episode of the “Stuff You Should Know” podcast, the hosts delve into the topic of lead poisoning and its detrimental effects. They discuss the history and science of lead, as well as its presence in various everyday items. The hosts also touch upon the Flint water crisis and the role of citizen scientists in uncovering the toxic nature of the water supply. Alongside these discussions, they recommend other podcasts for listeners to check out.

Main Takeaways

Flint Water Crisis and Lead Poisoning

• Flint, Michigan’s decision to use the polluted Flint River as their water supply led to health issues among residents.
• Citizens experienced hair loss, rashes, and other health problems after consuming the tap water.
• The government initially denied any issues with the water, leading citizens to become citizen scientists and prove its toxicity.

History and Science of Lead

• Lead has been used since ancient times, with the Romans utilizing lead pipes for water supply and sewage drainage.
• The English word for plumbing and the chemical symbol for lead, PB, both originate from the Latin word “plumbum.”
• Lead is a malleable and dense heavy metal, making it ideal for water pipes and soldering electrical connections.

Lead in Everyday Items

• Lead was commonly used in art, such as lead paint, due to its vibrant colors and corrosion resistance.
• China faced recalls in 2007 due to lead paint on toys, and lead paint remains an issue in older houses in the US.
• Lead is also found in lead pipes, leaded glass, and certain cosmetics, jewelry, pottery, and car batteries.

Health Effects of Lead

• Lead exposure can lead to cognitive and behavioral problems, particularly in children.
• Researchers have linked lead use in gasoline to the rise in crime rates, although further studies are needed to establish causation.
• Lead affects various bodily systems, including fertility, sex drive, and neuronal activity.

Lead Poisoning Prevention and Remediation

• Pre-1978 houses with lead paint require caution, as opening and closing windows can create harmful lead dust.
• Lead removal should be done by professionals with proper safety measures.
• A nutritious diet rich in calcium and vitamin C can help displace lead in the body.

Summary

Flint Water Crisis and Lead Poisoning

The hosts discuss the Flint water crisis, where the decision to use the polluted Flint River as the water source led to severe health issues among residents. Despite initial denials from the government, citizens educated themselves and became citizen scientists to prove the toxicity of the water. The main problem was the corrosive water causing lead from lead pipes to contaminate the supply, leading to widespread lead poisoning.

History and Science of Lead

Lead has been used since ancient times, with the Romans utilizing lead pipes for water supply and sewage drainage. The Latin word “plumbum” gave rise to the English word for plumbing and the chemical symbol for lead. Lead’s malleability and density make it ideal for water pipes and soldering electrical connections. However, its use in art, such as lead paint, has caused health concerns and recalls.

Lead in Everyday Items

Lead is found in various everyday items, including lead pipes, leaded glass, and certain cosmetics, jewelry, pottery, and car batteries. China faced recalls in 2007 due to lead paint on toys, and lead paint remains an issue in older houses built before 1978. Efforts have been made to ban or restrict the use of lead in these items to protect public health.

Health Effects of Lead

Lead exposure can have severe health effects, particularly on children. It can cause cognitive and behavioral problems, and researchers have even linked lead use in gasoline to the rise in crime rates. Lead affects various bodily systems, including fertility, sex drive, and neuronal activity. It is crucial to minimize lead exposure and take necessary precautions to protect public health.

Lead Poisoning Prevention and Remediation

To prevent lead poisoning, caution should be exercised in houses with lead paint, as opening and closing windows can create harmful lead dust. Lead removal should be done by professionals with proper safety measures. A nutritious diet rich in calcium and vitamin C can help displace lead in the body. It is important to prioritize lead poisoning prevention and remediation efforts to safeguard public health.

Conclusion

The “Stuff You Should Know” podcast episode on lead poisoning sheds light on the Flint water crisis and the dangers associated with lead exposure. By exploring the history, science, and health effects of lead, the hosts emphasize the importance of lead poisoning prevention and remediation measures. It is essential to remain informed and take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and future generations from the harmful effects of lead.