Scientists working to prove link between Iron Deficiency and Lead Poisoning
By Ramsay Crooks
Published on July 23, 2005
They will test this theory by studying children in Karachi, a city in Pakistan where children are exposed to the world's highest levels of lead pollution.
The researchers will divide the children into groups based on their level of iron deficiency, and will test levels of lead and manganese present in their blood.
High levels of lead or manganese in the body can lead to serious consequences.
Lead poisoning can damage the nervous system resulting in brain damage and a lower IQ, while high levels of manganese can lead to a condition called manganism, which has symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease.
If a link is found, iron supplements could be given to children in developing countries to prevent health problems and low IQs.
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