Lead pollution

Present when the earth was formed, lead is a naturally occurring element, galena is the most important source which is found sparingly in nature and may be present in air, water, soil and food.

Lead is the most widely used non-ferrous metal and has a large number of industrial applications. Its single largest industrial use worldwide is in the manufacture of batteries (60-70% of total consumption of some 4 million tonnes) and it is also used in paints, glazes, alloys, radiation shielding, tank lining and piping

Elevated levels of lead can be harmful if levels are built up in the body.  Lead is toxic by ingestion and inhalation and can affect the gut, central nervous system and  can cause anemia. It is a cumulative poison and a common occupational disease. Lead compounds may be carcinogenic.

Studies have shown that lead can have a small effect on the mental development of children and may also be a factor in behavioral problems.  However most ingested lead passes through the body without being absorbed.