"To build a meritocratic society, there is no alternative to eliminate lead exposure.” Despite Bangladesh ranking fourth globally in lead pollution, awareness remains alarmingly low.

Despite Bangladesh ranking fourth globally in lead pollution, awareness remains alarmingly low.

Approximately 36 million children—about 60% of the child population—suffer from elevated lead levels in their blood, leading to reduced intelligence, learning difficulties, and behavioural issues.

In adults, lead pollution is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, resulting in around 140,000 deaths annually. The economic losses from lead-related health issues are estimated to reach $28.6 billion each year, underscoring the urgency of collective action against this pervasive threat.

Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman, Country Director of Pure Earth Bangladesh, underscored the vital role of young people in this initiative. "The youth are the architects of tomorrow's world. Their active involvement in preventing lead pollution will lead to sustainable and constructive changes in their communities, ensuring a lead-free and safe environment for future generations," he remarked.

Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, called for immediate action against lead pollution. "As we confront the silent threat of lead pollution, we are fighting for the health and future of our children and our planet. The time for awareness and action is now. We young people are standing together, raising our voices, and demanding a lead-free Bangladesh," he added.

A recent blood lead level study on 500 children in Dhaka city, conducted by icddr,b in 2022 revealed that all the 500 children whose blood samples were tested, were found to have lead in their blood.

A total of 80 percent of the children had blood-lead level above 5 µg/dL, with an average blood-lead level of 7.6 mcg/dl and highest 36 µg/dL, whereas there is no safe limit of lead in a child’s body.

While sharing the impact of lead on children Md. Musa Baker, Research Investigator, Environmental Health and WASH, icddr,b said, “Lead damages brain of children below five, causing lifelong neurological, cognitive, and physical impairment to them. To build a meritocratic society, there is no alternative to eliminate lead exposure.”

https://unb.com.bd/category/Environment/lead-pollution-despite-ranking-4th-in-world-awareness-in-bangladesh-alarmingly-low/145641#