MUCH OF Jamaica's lead poisoning has been blamed on discarded batteries and backyard repair shops. However, other sources of lead include dust from old paint, water from old sinks or pipes, leaded gasolene and electronic waste (e-waste). Obsolete computers, televisions, VCRs and cellphones are a major part of the e-waste problem. These contain hazardous material such as lead that seeps into the environment. A typical computer monitor may contain up to eight pounds of lead. Industry estimates suggest that by 2007, 500 million computers will become obsolete worldwide and will contain nearly 1.6 billion pounds of lead. The management and disposal of e-waste is now of great concern internationally and needs greater public awareness in Jamaica.
Lead is the most toxic metal contaminant. It should not be in the blood. The chemical has no biological function. Experts say that blood levels of five micrograms per decilitre can bring about DNA aberrations. In children, levels of 10 micrograms per decilitre can bring down the IQ (intelligence quotient). Even at low levels, lead is not excreted through the digestive system but accumulates in the body and is absorbed directly from the blood stream to other tissues. The improper disposal of e-waste that contains these pollutants poses a significant threat to human health and may lead to respiratory distress, skin infections, stomach diseases and other conditions.
Symptoms of lead poisoning appear over the course of several weeks in adults and several days in children. These symptoms include:
* Vomiting
* Prolonged gastrointestinal colic
* Blue discoloration of the gum
* Muscle weakness
* Diarrhoea
* Loss of appetite
* Confusion
* Metallic taste in the mouth.
Long-term adverse effects include paralysis of the extremities, blindness, and mental disturbances, loss of memory, coma and death. Specific antidotes have been identified for lead poisoning.
TIPS FOR A LEAD-SAFE HOME
The Caribbean Poison Information Network, located at the University of Technology, provides the following tips for a lead-safe home:
* Do not buy foods in cans sealed with lead solder that can leak into foods.
* Do not store alcoholic beverages or acidic foods or beverages such as vinegar and fruit juices in lead crystal glassware for any length of time.
* If you are pregnant, avoid drinking hot coffee or hot acidic beverages from ceramic cups or mugs.
* Do not turn bread bags out and use them to store other foods. The ink used to print labels on many bread bags may contain lead.
* Keep painted surfaces in good repair so that older layers of paint are not exposed.
You now know that improper disposal of old computers, TVs and VCRs has the potential to release toxic chemicals into the environment. Consumers all over the world are grappling with the problem of identifying safe means of disposal. Some companies are offering take-back deals on the purchase of new versions. Solid waste authorities have the expertise to provide practical disposal solutions. Be alert to the presence of lead, even at low levels, in and around your home. Make every effort to safeguard yourself and your family from lead poisoning.
Ellen Campbell-Grizzle, president, Caribbean Association of Pharmacists (CAP) & director, Information & Research, National Council on Drug Abuse. Email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
