Childhood lead poisoning in the United States is predominantly caused by ingesting lead paint. The typical poisoning case involves a child under the age of seven who absorbs the lead by eating small chips of paint that flakes off painted surfaces in their homes. Even though lead hasn’t been allowed in paint for almost 25 years it’s estimated that over 50% of children living in urban settings are exposed annually. This shocking statistic is explained by the fact that these children often live in dwellings that are old and poorly maintained.

Childhood lead poisoning caused by ingesting a one-inch paint chip can result in permanent brain damage.

The lead poisoning of our children is 100% preventable! Sadly, it took the United States until 1979 to remove lead from the paint manufacturing process. This means that homes and other properties build before 1979 may pose a health risk to children if lead based paint was used.

Lead poisoning can occur due to lead in:

• Homes
• Lead Water Service Lines / Older Pipes
• Lead Contaminated Soils (particularly in the Tri-State Mining District of Missouri)

St. Louis, MO has one of the highest rates of childhood lead poisoning in the country. The Missouri Department of Health determined that 14% of children, aged 6 months to 6 years, in Jasper County, MO had elevated levels of lead in their blood. This study attributed the high lead levels to soil contamination caused by past mining activity in the region.

Childhood lead poisoning can result in:

• Permanent Brain Damage
• Learning and Developmental Disabilities
• Kidney Disease
• Muscle Weakness

The full effects of childhood lead poisoning may take years to appear, because many problems are developmental in nature. This delay means childhood lead poisoning may be more difficult to prove as the cause of medical problems.

The attorneys of Brown & Crouppen are experienced in successfully litigating lead paint cases. Our team has strong, knowledgeable lawyers with significant resources and manpower. Beginning with our research specialists, to our medical professionals, investigators and economists, our team is on your side, creating a strong case for you.

Brown & Crouppen can help you make informed decisions about your legal rights, so please call Brown & Crouppen at Toll Free: 866-991-4700 for your free legal consultation or save time with our online Contact Form.