WATCH: What does lead poisoning do to your kid’s brain?
Children who are exposed to the toxic heavy metal lead are more likely to commit violent crime and to get lower scores on intelligence tests as adults. But experts and industry groups say the government isn’t doing enough to manage lead
20 October 2022 - 08:10
byYolanda Mdzeke and Jesse Copelyn
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Researchers found that three-quarters of children tested in Kimberley, Cape Town and Joburg had lead poisoning. One reason is that lead paint covers homes, toys and playground equipment across parts of the country.
While the government has placed limits on how much lead can be added to paint, industry groups and experts say the government isn’t enforcing these laws. Additionally, health-care workers are missing lead poisoning cases.
Support our award-winning journalism. The Premium package (digital only) is R30 for the first month and thereafter you pay R129 p/m now ad-free for all subscribers.
WATCH: What does lead poisoning do to your kid’s brain?
Children who are exposed to the toxic heavy metal lead are more likely to commit violent crime and to get lower scores on intelligence tests as adults. But experts and industry groups say the government isn’t doing enough to manage lead
This story was produced by the Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism. Sign up for the newsletter.
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