(iv) State what can be done about the problems or social issues raised, such as treatment for poisoning, or government intervention/regulation.

  Lead poisoning can be identified by undergoing a blood lead test or urine test. Over 25 micrograms per decilitre (mcg/dL) can put one’s life at risk.

  Treatment for lead poisoning varies depending on the amount of lead in the blood. Small amounts can often be treated with the reduction of lead exposure and as the body naturally eliminates the lead, the level of lead in the blood will fall.

  For severe lead poisoning however, the patient will need to undergo Chelation therapy or EDTA therapy. In Chelation therapy, the patient takes a medication that binds with the lead so that lead can be removed from the body via excretion.Common drugs used for chelation therapy includes Penicillamine, Dimercaprol and Dimercaptosuccinc acid. However, this can cause side effects like skin irritation, fever, headache and nausea.

  Under EDTA therapy, the Doctors treat the blood with a chemical called ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). EDTA therapy is classified under Chelation therapy but EDTA therapy is used for patients suffering from more severe cases of lead poisoning. The side effects from this therapy can include abdominal pain,fatigue and make existing effects from asthma, diabetes and hepatitis even worse.

Regulations and Measures can also be taken by the government to minimize the risks of lead poisoning. Measures in every country usually revolve around:

• Environmental standards that remove lead from petrol/gasoline, paint and plumbing.
• Enforcement of occupational health standards.
• Surveillance of potentially exposed population groups, especially the vulnerable ones (children, pregnant women, workers).
• Water treatment.
• Removing lead solder from food cans.

Examples of Regulations:

  Ban on the use of lead pipes for drinking water in new installations, and the phasing out of lead-based petrol. (UK)

  Encapsulation of lead painted surfaces with materials approved as an encapsulate of lead paint by the United States Environmental Protection Agency or the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, or the American Society for Testing and Materials or the Commissioner after repair of water leaks caused by structured or plumbing deficiencies or after the removal of any chipping, peeling or flaking paint. (US)

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