Formerly used for various applications, lead is today known for its toxicity to the human body. Dr. Gary Goldstein, executive director of the Kennedy Krieger Institute, wrote: “Exposure to excessive amounts of inorganic lead during the early years can produce lasting adverse effects on brain function (Goldstein 1990). » Awareness of lead poisoning has become increasingly widespread within the U.S. government, with testing for lead poisoning recommended as early as nine to twelve months of age (Health and Human Services 2011). This article will briefly explain the history of lead and its industrial uses, and give an in-depth analysis of children's lead exposure and how it affects their brain development. Simply put, lead is an element found in the earth's crust. It is slightly soluble in water and is transported mainly in the atmosphere (Harte et al. 1991). Human use of lead dates back to five thousand years ago, when it was discovered that small quantities of silver could be extracted from lead ore (Harte et al. 1991). Ancient civilizations in Phenicia, Egypt, Greece, India and China used lead to make containers, roofs, water pipes, utensils, ornaments and weights (Harte et al. 1991 ). The Romans used lead acetate as an artificial sweetener in their drinks. Lead acetate, called lead sugar, would sweeten a vintage without causing additional fermentation, which would have occurred with the addition of sweeteners like honey (Le Courteur and Burreson 2003). The Romans also used lead pipes to supply their homes with water. The Latin name for lead is Plumbum (like the word plumbing) hence the symbol Pb on the periodic table (August 1998). Only wealthy Romans had access to water in their homes via lead pipes. Lead poisoning from middle of paper......lead levels are above 45 μg/dL (Ginsberg and Toal 2006). In conclusion, lead is a very common poison that has been closely linked throughout history. of humanity. To avoid poisoning by this toxic substance, food must be washed before being cooked or consumed. Hands, especially those of young children, should be washed before meals (Harte et al. 1991). Peeling lead-based paint should be removed by a professional; Intact lead paint on buildings should be maintained occasionally by applying lead-free coatings. Joggers and cyclists should exercise away from traffic and avoid rush hour driving (Harte et al. 1991). As a nation, progress is being made to reduce daily contact with lead. On the other hand, countries around the world must learn from history's mistakes in lead use; otherwise they will just repeat the past.