Lead toxicity, oxidative damage and health implications. A review

The toxicity of Lead was recognized centuries ago, and it continued to pose serious threat to the health of children as well as adults. This review presents an overview of the current knowledge of toxic effects of Lead induced oxidative damage and also suggests some possible measures which could reduce the toxic effects of the metal. This paper examines the effect s of Lead in blood, soft tissues, haematopoietic system and the antioxidant defense system. On the other hand, data also indicated that lead is an essential element at low dietary intakes. Its deficiency was shown to depress growth, disturb iron metabolism, alter activities of some enzymes and disturb the metabolism of cholesterol, phospholipids and bile acids. It was found that lead toxicity is significant but a preventable health problem. Furthermore, work is needed to find the effective and safe intervention for lowering the lead exposure at the general population level.