The article discusses types of teratogenic agents, (behavioral defects caused by toxic agents) behavioral targets, organismic vulnerability during growth spurts, teratogenic "routing" (path to the brain), exposure, and duration of effects. Lead is used as a paradigm of chemical neurotoxins known to affect cognitive and noncognitive…

Various aspects of lead poisoning and its control are the focus of this document which consists of edited speeches presented at childhood lead poisoning conferences in Wilmington, Delaware and Chicago, Illinois. Among the topics discussed are a) the role of Federal and State governments in lead poison control; b) the local government role,…

This annotated bibliography of 247 entries is divided into the following categories: (a) general aspects and reviews; (b) sources of poisoning, epidemiology, and pica studies; (c) clinico-pathological studies; (d) diagnosis and screening; (e) laboratory methods; and (f) treatment and prevention. A subject and author index is included. (PD)

A broad spectrum of potentially hazardous chemicals offers serious exposure risks to members of college and university communities. A formal program is needed to minimize exposure to these substances and maintain a prevention oriented protective program. The University of Massachusetts has developed such a program. (JN)

To investigate the relation between low level lead absorption and mild mental retardation, hair lead concentrations were compared in a group of 40 mildly retarded children "etiology unknown" with a control group of 20 children. Children with probable cause for retardation were excluded from the sample as were children with a history of lead…

Zoo animals, apparently poisoned by atmospheric lead, may serve as an indicator of dangerous concentrations in New York City's atmosphere. (AL)

The study investigated possible relationships between lead levels and behavioral problems in 55 elementary schoolchildren (26 with behavior problems and 29 controls). The group of behavior problem children had significantly higher hair lead levels. (Author/SB)

Describes a study designed to examine the effectiveness of the family-based environmental education lead poisoning program called "The Adventure of Lead Commander". Design and methodological weaknesses call into question the conclusions reached in the study. The effectiveness of the educational program cannot be ascertained from the data…

This study investigated the relationship between hair mineral elements and childhood learning disabilities and determined which minerals, if any, separated 26 learning disabled children with 24 normal controls. The learning disabled group had significantly raised hair-lead concentrations. There were also differences in the mean levels of 10 other…

Hair trace mineral concentrations were compared to a group of 40 retarded children with a nonretarded control group of 27. The retarded group had significantly raised hair lead concentrations. There were also differences in the mean levels of six nutrient minerals. (Author)

Provides a review of the history of lead poisoning in children and discusses recent survey findings and prevention measures. (CM)

The article reviews experimental data on the deleterious effects of environmental lead and cadmium on cognitive functioning of children. (CL)

Excess lead concentration (resulting primarily from vehicular emissions) in Baltimore's inner city soils probably has a bearing on that city's child lead poisoning problem. Soil lead concentrations were lower outside the inner city. (GC)

To raise public awareness about lead poison hazards associated with home repair/remodeling, literature was distributed and training for store employees conducted in large retail home centers. Although store managers were supportive, their hectic work situation made training difficult. Following outreach in 22 of 23 stores, postcards returned by…

Reports on the ruling by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia which set aside the Environmental Protection Agency's regulations on lead in gasoline. (GS)