Old Pipes a Significant Source of Lead Poisoning, Expert Says

Lead poisoning in children continues to be a significant problem in New Jersey and elsewhere, according to Dr. Steven Marcus, executive and medical director of New Jersey Poison Information and Education System.

And a major source of lead poisoning is aging infrastructure, like the piping in the public schools in Newark where drinking water tested positive to elevated levels of lead.   

"There are probably hundreds of schools, in the state of New Jersey and elsewhere in the country that have old pipes, old fixtures, and probably are a potential risk for exposure to lead, and other things," Marcus said.

He said he treated 18 children for lead poisoning last year.

Serious cases of lead poisoning come from repeated, chronic exposure, Marcus said, adding that Newark Public Schools responded correctly by temporarily shutting off the water spigots in 30 school buildings. Students are drinking bottled water instead.

New Jersey environmental officials say parents shouldn't be worried if their children attended thoe schools, although it is still unclear how long the lead had been in the water. The samples that tested positive were taken in December, and officials have not released the results from last year's tests.

In this interview, WNYC's Jami Floyd talks with Marcus about the situation in Newark, and when lead is dangerous.