Midterm Exam 20101. Question: When considering monetary estimates of childhood lead poisoning prevention, list and note the relative importance of the cost categories and benefits that must be considered in projecting a cost/benefit ratio. Use a standard housing cleanup approach for such expenses. Where is the balance? What are the options and obstacles to taking this forward? General Effects of Childhood Lead Poisoning When lead is inhaled, it may become deposited in the bones where some essential body functions occur, such as blood formation and calcium absorption. Lead is also transported in the bloodstream and deposited in muscles, nerves and blood vessels. Lead deposition in these organ systems eventually causes these organs to malfunction. These malfunctions could include decreased growth/coordination of bones and muscles, damage to the nervous system and other organs of the body. (KidsHealth, 1995-2010) The above-mentioned effects could also impair the body's breakdown and utilization of nutrients, as well as a decrease in hearing ability. Furthermore, it affects children's growth, meaning that it has been shown that children with higher blood lead levels can on average be 1cm shorter than their genetic potential. Effects of Lead on Children's Cognition and Behavior: Lead poisoning has been identified as one of the factors responsible for cognitive deficits and mental illnesses among children. A correlation has been demonstrated between blood lead level and cognitive functioning in children and infants (Bruce P. Lanphear, 2005). Bruce P et al, in a study of low-level environmental lead exposure and intellectual function in children, showed an inverse relationship between blood lead concentrations and IQ scores...... middle of paper ...... d (safety gates) to protect the child from falls and injuries.4. Fireplaces should be kept out while the child is around, or at least have a stable hedge around the fireplace that protects the child from falling into the fire.5. Medicines should be kept out of reach of the child to avoid overdose6. Alcoholic drinks should be kept out of reach of children to protect them from alcohol poisoning.7. The door and window must be kept closed to prevent the child from falling and suffering serious injuries8. Keep pets away from the child, as they may cause direct harm to the child or cause allergies.9. Detergents/washes in the bathrooms and kitchen must be locked to prevent the child from drinking them.10. Matches and lighters should be kept away to prevent the child from having a child.