Stuff You Should Know Selects: What Makes Lead So Poisonous?
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Jul 1, 2023 Discover the shocking realities of lead poisoning, particularly in Flint, MI, where drinking water was contaminated. The hosts delve into lead's toxic impact on health, emphasizing its historical misuse and ongoing risks. They explore how lead mimics calcium, disrupting vital biological functions. Personal anecdotes and humor lighten the heavy topics, while discussing the environmental hazards of old plumbing. The conversation highlights the urgent need for awareness and action to protect vulnerable communities from lead exposure.
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Flint Water Crisis
- Flint, Michigan residents experienced hair loss, rashes, and developmental issues due to lead-contaminated water.
- The government initially dismissed their concerns, leading residents to become citizen scientists and expose the truth.
Roman Lead Use
- The Romans were among the first to use lead extensively, including for plumbing and water storage.
- The words "plumbing" and "lead's chemical symbol" (Pb) come from the Latin word "plumbum," meaning lead.
Lead in Paint and Products
- Lead was historically used in various products, including paint, due to its properties that enhanced vibrancy and resisted corrosion.
- Lead paint is still used on street signs, and it was a concern in toys made in China.