Metal Pollutant Exposure and Behavior Disorders: Implications for School Practices

Abstract

Childhood exposure to metal pollutants routinely encountered in the environment is an issue of importance to the field of behavior disorders. Metal pollutants at low levels, far below those associated with clinical metal poisoning, are associated with a spectrum of behavior disorders.This review addresses a set of environmental and diet variables to reduce metal exposure which are potentially within the realm of control of child, parent, and health or educational professional working with the family.It is well established that metal pollutants are neurotoxins, and that children who survive the effects of metal poisoning are often left with permanent neurological sequelae, including severe behavior disorders (Weiss, 1983). Now, there is a consensus that lesser levels of metals considerably below those associated with metal poisoning, are, also a causative factor in neurologic dysfunctions, including behavior disorders. The empirical foundation of this position is the variety of studies conducted since the early 1970s demonstrating significant correlations between low and moderate metal levels and childhood behavior dysfunctions.

The Hidden Challenge for Educators: Low Level Lead Toxicity

“…Auspiciously, eliminating lead from the environment (removing lead paint and dust) can both prevent poisoning and lower toxicity levels (Marlowe, 1986). Toxicity levels can also be lowered by medication, nutrition and chelation therapy (Marlowe, 1986;Thatcher & Lester, 1985).…”

“…Toxicity levels can also be lowered by medication, nutrition and chelation therapy (Marlowe, 1986;Thatcher & Lester, 1985). Chelation therapy, where chemicals are injected into the blood to become attached to lead particles so they can then be easily eliminated through the kidneys, has limited applicability, however, because of high cost.…”

“…Chelation therapy, where chemicals are injected into the blood to become attached to lead particles so they can then be easily eliminated through the kidneys, has limited applicability, however, because of high cost. A balanced diet of unrefined foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and iron, is also recommended (Centers for Disease Control, 1985;Marlowe, 1986).…”