Reported is a fatal case of mepivacaine (an anesthetic) poisoning in a newborn infant whose mother had received the drug during the last hour of labor. (DB)

To investigate the relationship between lead levels and behavioral problems in children, hair lead levels were compared in a group of children (N=26, mean age 10.73) judged by teachers to have behavioral problems with a control group (N=29, mean age 8.68) judged not to have behavioral problems. There were no significant differences between groups…

The relationship between low elevated lead absorption and mild mental retardation was investigated in 40 rural children (preschool to grade 12) without demonstrable cause for their retardation. Trace mineral analysis of hair samples from Ss and a control group (N=20) indicated the mean hair lead concentrations for the retarded Ss were considerably…

This comprehensive bibliography was prepared in response to the growing interest in the problem of childhood lead poisoning. Most of the papers noted are from the pediatric literature and include only those published in English. A limited number of papers on experiments in laboratory animals are cited. Documents are grouped under several general…

Polyvinyl chloride (vinyl or PVC) is a substance widely used in children's products. Because children in contact with these products may ingest substantial quantities of potentially harmful chemicals during normal play, especially when they chew on the product, this Greenpeace study examined the levels of lead and cadmium in a variety of consumer…

Briefly describes the current knowledge about the effects of environmental agents on man, and specifically outlines the action of a number of pollutants in the human body. Suggests guidelines for national and international action during the next decade to increase knowledge and understanding in this area. (JR)

Data from a 1994 University of Maryland study suggest that typical janitorial tasks (sweeping, vacuuming, emptying trash receptacles, cleaning fixtures, and other related housekeeping activities) would not result in an airborne lead exposure that exceeded Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. Lead abatement work should…

Notes that, despite gains in eliminating lead sources, there are still detectable effects from low-level exposure. Discusses at what level of exposure the adverse effects of lead become trivial and what measures, if any, should be taken to reduce low-level exposure. (HTH)

Lead poisoning is the number one environmental threat to children. At low levels it harms development, damages blood cells, and lowers IQ. At higher levels, it damages the nervous system, kidneys, reproductive system, and mental development. The article examines risk factors and discusses contamination, testing for lead, and prevention. (SM)

Extension educators broadened their capacity to educate more Latino families about lead poisoning through collaboration with community agencies. Agencies were provided multicultural curriculum materials and staff training to carry the program into the community. (SK)

Reports that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been tracking the levels of lead, which is linked to increased behavioral disorders, retardation, and anemia in children, in the United States since the 1970s. Provides statistics on the current state of chronic diseases in the U.S. and asserts that there is a need for a nationwide heath…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that more than 1 million children ages 5 and under are afflicted with unsafe amounts of lead. Schools can be a source of lead poisoning. Other sources include playgrounds near freeways, playground equipment, contaminated soil, and technology rooms with lead-bearing supplies. Sidebars…

This book begins with a progress report on preventing childhood injuries. Settings for pediatric care are discussed as well as The Injury Prevention Program (TIPP). Child abuse is also addressed in the first section. In section two, specific childhood injuries and interventions are discussed. Each chapter begins with an overview of the problem,…