| Summary: | The ATSDR toxicological profile succinctly characterizes the toxicology and adverse health effects information for the toxic substance described therein. Each peer-reviewed profile identifies and reviews the key literature that describes a substance's toxicological properties. Lead (Pb) is an element that is found in concentrated and easily accessible Pb ore deposits that are widely distributed throughout the world. A major source of Pb in the U.S. environment has historically been anthropogenic emissions to the atmosphere from combustion of leaded gasoline, which was phased out of use after 1973 and then banned in 1995 (with the exception of fuels for piston-driven aircraft) (EPA 1996a). Pb continued to be used as an anti-knock agent in National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) fuels until it was phased out beginning in 2008. Deteriorating Pb-based paints from weathered surfaces (which produce highly concentrated Pb debris and dusts) in older housing stock(pre-1978) continues to be a source of childhood Pb poisoning in the United States (CDC 1991, 2012d).The combination of corrosive water and Pb pipes or Pb-soldered joints in either the distribution system or individual houses can create localized zones of high Pb water concentrations (EPA 1989b, 2007a; Hanna Attisha et al. 2016). Other anthropogenic sources of Pb have included mining and smelting of ore;manufacture of and use of Pb-containing products (e.g., Pb-based paints, pigments, and glazes; electricalshielding; plumbing; storage batteries; solder; and welding fluxes); manufacture and application ofPb-containing pesticides; combustion of coal and oil; and waste incineration
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