http://www.revolutionhealth.com/news/?id=article.2007-08-15.0950055012&msc=S50588
Lead is more dangerous to children than adults because it can harm the developing brain, causing reduced IQ, learning disabilities and behavioral problems, among other things. Experts said it could take some time before any problem is apparent because of the gradual nature of lead poisoning.
Dr. Michael Shannon, a Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School pediatrician and toxicologist, said the risk to children playing with these toys is low. "Frankly, I think the biggest story is the clear failure of federal agencies to protect us," Shannon said. "I'd call it a public health disaster. It's frustrating. You would think that after so many recalls ... that federal agencies who have this as part of their charge would have done something effective. I have not seen that happen."
Dr. Jacqueline Moline, a lead poisoning expert at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, said signs of lead poisoning may include irritability, low appetite and lethargy. "Parents should make sure that they discuss with their pediatrician whether their child should be tested for lead and re-evaluate what kind of toys they have in their homes. The problem is that we don't know the provenance of their toys," Moline said.
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Luckily there are some fairly inexpensive and very handy lead testing kits that parents can use to test their children's toys (as well as their homes).
Of course, we shouldn't have to worry about such things. Hopefully, the day will come when lead poisoning won't be such a real and common threat to the health of children.
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