ILA reviewing global health report

Scientists at ILA are analysing a new report published in the Lancet Public Health journal into the health implications of lead exposure.

A spokesperson for ILA said: “We need to analyse the full report in the Lancet Planetary Health journal before commenting on it in detail. However, the conclusions of this research appear to be based upon several assumptions and uncertainties including risk estimates of cardiovascular mortality calculated from the US Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and estimates of blood lead levels that may be present in general populations of developing countries. Both parameters have significant implications for the magnitude of the health burden reported in the new study.”

Commenting on lead pollution in low and middle-income countries, the spokesperson said:

“Despite reservations about the robustness of conclusions on the magnitude of global health burdens made by the new study we strongly support the recent commitment by G7 nations to reduce lead in the environment and to reduce disproportionate lead exposure in vulnerable communities. We continue to call for stringent, science-based regulations while actively supporting efforts to eradicate exposure caused by illegal, informal and substandard practices. Multiple stakeholders including policy makers and governments, industry and civil society groups have a role to play in ensuring proven solutions are implemented as soon as possible. Industry has an established programme called LeadBattery360 which is designed to tackle substandard and informal lead battery recycling and for many years we have supported projects that have improved conditions in regions where lead pollution is prevalent.”