What Are Some of the Classes of Environmental Pollutants Affecting Children?

Discussion Children are particularly susceptible to heavy metals in the environment and while arsenic is not regarded as a heavy metal by chemists (it is a semi-metal) it is often lumped in with mercury and lead because all have similar toxic affects. Elemental arsenic is not toxic itself, but inorganic and organic compounds are toxic. Inorganic compounds are particularly toxic because they are highly lipid soluble. Arsenic sources include water, air, marine animals, and fossil fuels. Fruits, vegetables, milk and rice can also be contaminated. As rice plants grow they can absorb more arsenic than some other grains. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends, “Parents commonly feed infants rice cereal as a first food, but other foods are equally acceptable as a first food. Finely chopped meat provides a source of iron. Cereals made from other grains may be given first, or vegetable purees. For older children, the advice is the same: A varied diet will decrease a child’s exposure to environmental toxins in any one food, while providing a wide variety of nutrients.” To learn more about environmental arsenic, click here. Learning Point Environmental pollution includes those that are more traditional such as air or water pollution, but also include more modern problems including toxic chemicals, climate change, and e-waste. Environmental pollution is a large contributor to morbidity and mortality for the fetus, children and adults. Air Pollution Air poll...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news