Lead poisoning is increasingly affecting children worldwide, with severe impacts on their health and development. Dr. Siriac Abby Phillips, a renowned liver specialist from Kerala, emphasizes that children in Africa are suffering from this toxic exposure, which impairs intelligence, cognitive abilities, and learning, potentially leading to aggressive behavior in adulthood.
In Afghanistan, the traditional cooking pot "Kazen" is a major source of lead poisoning, while in Bangladesh, adulterated turmeric contributes to rising cases. Lead poisoning can even affect unborn children and result in lifelong disabilities. Contributing factors include lead-based paints, unsafe recycling practices, contaminated soil, and lead in products like cosmetics and kajal.
The FDA warns that kajal used on infants can also lead to lead poisoning, posing significant health risks..