By; Our reporter
23rd October 2019
World Health Organisation-WHO has warned Countries to limit the production, import and sale of lead paint used to paint in homes, schools, toys and playground equipment, that it creates a significant risk of children’s exposure to the cumulative toxicant.
Lead compounds are often added to oil-based decorative and industrial paints and other coatings to enhance colour, increase durability, maintain a fresh appearance, shorten drying time and resist moisture that causes corrosion.
Research shows that as lead paint ages and decays, it releases lead-containing dust and flakes that contaminate the environment and is easily ingested by young children who play on the floor and frequently put their hands and other objects to their mouths
This exposure to lead could result in permanent damage to the brain and the nervous system, learning disabilities, renal and cardiovascular diseases and increased risk of antisocial behaviour. It can also cause anaemia, increase the risk of kidney damage and hypertension and reduced fertility.
The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation has estimated that, based on 2017 data, lead exposure accounted for 1.06 million deaths from long term effects and 24.4 million disability-adjusted life years lost.
Dr Maria Neira, the Director of the Department of Public Health which deals with social and environmental factors, at WHO has said, in a statement issued today.
Some countries in Africa like those in East Africa have put in place standards for paint containing lead at 90 ppm and a few others lime Algeria, Cameroon, Ethiopia and South Africa
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