Lead has been used for thousands of years.
And why not? This is a metal that is abundant, pliable, has a low melting point, and does not easily corrode. However, even our ancestors knew that those who worked closely with it often became sick.
Called Saturnism by the Ancient Romans, lead poisoning was known to cause a pale appearance, intestinal problems, paralysis, delirium, and even death.
Petrol, paint, construction, ammunition, cosmetics, toys, etc. have at all included lead at some point in time. Recent regulations have reduced the exposure of the general population. However, we are not immune from contamination and outbreaks as recent history has shown.
Available via OMNY Studio on iTunes, Spotify and Google Podcasts with Podcast Host Steve Davis and our Dr Travis Brown Resident General Pathologist. This Pathological Life is produced by Clinpath Pathology in South Australia.
