How Lead Affects the Body

Lead is usually introduced into the body through swallowing and is initially deposited in the stomach. The amount of lead that enters the blood stream from the stomach depends on a variety of factors including the person’s age, when the last meal was eaten, and how well the particles dissolve in the stomach juices. For example, if adults and children swallow the same amount of lead, a larger proportion of the lead will enter the blood of the child than of the adult.

According to the United States government's Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, shortly after lead enters the body, it travels in the blood to soft tissue (such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, brain, spleen, muscles, and heart).  After several weeks the lead moves to the bones and teeth, where it can remain stored for decades.  Approximately 73% of lead in a child’s body is stored in the bones.  Under certain circumstances lead can leave the bones and reenter the blood and organs. This may occur during pregnancy, breastfeeding, when one has broken a bone, or during the regular aging process.

Approximately 99% of the lead taken in by an adult will leave the body through waste within a few weeks, compared to only 32% of lead leaving a child’s body through waste.  As children are continually exposed to lead, it will accumulate in the body tissues and bones causing lead poisoning and its related symptoms and health problems.

Legal Options

At Paul & Hanley, LLP we understand that your family is the most important thing in your life and they deserve to be happy and healthy.  It is traumatic to find out a member of your family has been diagnosed with lead poisoning and we want you to know that there are people willing to help. 

The attorneys at Paul & Hanley are dedicated and experienced professionals interested in assisting your family.  Our law firm, based in California, is nationally recognized for our successes and for the honesty, integrity, and compassion of our lawyers and employees. We will explore the possibility of legal action for your child’s poisoning and give you honest answers to your important questions. 

Please contact us if you believe someone in your family is suffering from lead poisoning or if you would like to learn more about lead poisoning and exposure.  We are happy to provide you with a free and confidential legal consultation.  We'll discuss your specific case and give you honest answers to your important questions.  Our toll-free number is (800) 933-2244.  We look forward to helping you.

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