Study Shows Decline in Human Lead Exposure Following EPA Establishment Using Archived Hair Analysis
By
robtherobber
Front-window bakery material. Catches the eye, delivers the goods.
Summary
This scientific study analyzes archived human hair samples from Utah residents over the past century to document changes in lead exposure. The research shows a significant decline in lead exposure in humans since the establishment of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970, coinciding with regulatory efforts to reduce lead in gasoline, paint, and other sources. The study demonstrates that hair analysis provides a reliable historical record of environmental lead exposure and validates the effectiveness of EPA regulations in protecting public health from this toxic metal.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledCongress created the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970 to address national air and water pollution problems, including lead exposure.
Lead (Pb) exposure is detrimental to human health and there is no safe level of Pb exposure.
Because of the concern over environmental Pb exposures, efforts worldwide have been made in the past 50 y to reduce human exposure to Pb.
We use archived hair from individuals living along the Wasatch Front in Utah to evaluate changes in exposure to lead over the last 100 y.
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