Silent threats of lead-based paints in toys and households to children’s health and development

Abstract

Lead (Pb), a highly toxic heavy metal, poses a significant global health risk, particularly to children. Widely used in paint manufacturing for its remarkable corrosion-resistance properties Pb exposure has been linked to severe health issues, including reduced neurotransmitter levels, organ damage, potentially leading to death in extreme cases. Children Are particularly vulnerable, with Pb toxicity primarily affecting the brain, reproductive, kidneys, and cardiovascular systems. Approximately 0.6 million children worldwide suffer from cognitive impairments caused by Pb exposure. Despite varying Pb content regulations across countries, research has found that Pb concentration in paints often exceed permissible levels. A 0.01 mg/dL blood Pb level (BLL) is considered the threshold level as per the World Health Organization. However, recent studies reveal that significant health effects, including cognitive impairments in children, occur even at BLLs < 0.01 mg/dL. This review provides critical insights into the global production and use of Pb-based paints, release mechanisms of Pb, exposure pathways, and safety standards. It also highlights the harmful effects of Pb on human health, particularly in children, and its detailed toxicity mechanisms. Finally, this review identifies critical knowledge gaps and offers perspectives for future research.