CEBU CITY: Parents and caregivers are urged to take preventive measures to protect children from lead exposure and poisoning at home.
Lead is a toxic element that can affect virtually all organs in the body, including the brain, cardiovascular system, blood and kidneys. Young children are particularly vulnerable to exposure to lead dust, which may affect their growth and development.
Experts estimate that 535,000 Filipino children aged between one and five years have blood lead levels high enough to harm their health.
They also estimate that 24 million housing units in the Philippines contain deteriorated lead-based paint and elevated levels of lead-contaminated household dust.
In conjunction with International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2026, the Environment Management Bureau in Central Visayas (EMB-7) has issued reminders on how to protect children against lead poisoning.
According to EMB-7, possible sources of lead in homes include drinking water that passes through lead pipes, peeling or flaking lead-based paint, contaminated soil, toys, jewellery, dishes and other household items.
Lead can also be found in products and materials such as petrol, ceramics, solder, batteries and cosmetics. Some household items, including toys, dishes and jewellery, may contain lead that can be absorbed into the body.
Old homes and buildings may still contain remnants of lead-based paint. As the paint deteriorates, lead particles can spread into household dust, increasing the risk of exposure among children who come into contact with contaminated surfaces.
Soil in urban areas may also be contaminated by lead from petrol or exterior paint. Children who play on contaminated soil may come into contact with lead particles, which can also be carried indoors.
Adults working in industries that involve lead may bring particles into their homes on their clothing, potentially exposing other members of the household.
Infants and young children face a greater risk of exposure to lead dust than older children. Living in an older home is another risk factor because buildings may still contain deteriorating lead-based paint.
Certain hobbies, such as making stained glass or some jewellery, may involve lead solder. Refinishing old furniture may also expose people to lead from paint.
Health advocates also warn that exposure risks may be greater in developing countries, where rules on lead exposure may be less stringent than in developed countries.
Lead poisoning can affect several parts of the body. Its possible effects include difficulty concentrating and damage to the nervous system, high blood pressure, blood deficiency, abnormal growth in children and impaired kidney function. It may also cause fatigue, joint pain and muscle pain.
Possible signs of lead poisoning in children include weight loss, abdominal pain, vomiting, fatigue and seizures.
Adults may experience high blood pressure, joint and muscle pain, headaches and abdominal pain.
Reduced sperm count and abnormal sperm are also among the possible effects associated with lead exposure.
However, symptoms alone cannot confirm lead poisoning. Identifying possible sources of exposure and seeking appropriate medical assessment when exposure is suspected are important steps in addressing the risk.
Parents and caregivers can take several practical steps to reduce children’s exposure to lead at home.
Experts recommend regular handwashing and cleaning children’s toys to reduce the transfer of lead particles. Cleaning dusty surfaces and removing shoes before entering the house can also help limit the spread of potentially contaminated dust and soil indoors.
Parents are also advised to prevent children from playing on potentially contaminated soil and to check for peeling or flaking paint in their homes, particularly in older buildings where lead-based paint may remain.
Drinking water that passes through lead pipes may also be a source of exposure. Experts recommend running cold water as a precaution against lead contamination.
Families are further encouraged to exercise caution when choosing products such as imported toys, jewellery, sweets and traditional remedies that may contain lead.
A healthy diet may also help reduce lead absorption, with foods rich in calcium, iron and vitamin C recommended as part of efforts to protect children from lead poisoning.
Through this year’s campaign, health advocates emphasise identifying lead hazards, preventing exposure and promoting safer environments to protect children and other vulnerable communities. - Inquirer/ANN
