Health risks posed by environmental toxins such as lead and mold are a growing concern for children, particularly those living in poor housing conditions. These issues disproportionately affect economically vulnerable populations, highlighting the urgent need for immediate action.
Lindsay Rhoades, a nurse case manager at Golisano Children’s Hospital, emphasized the impact of lead poisoning on children’s health. Lead paint is most commonly found in older rental properties, and routine screenings for lead exposure are conducted on children at two and three years of age. However, many patients show elevated lead levels without any obvious symptoms, necessitating intervention. Rhoades stressed that lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children, resulting in unmet milestones and regressions.
Mold exposure is also a significant threat to children’s health, especially for those with respiratory issues like asthma. Dr. Sandy Mayer, a clinical pediatrician and faculty member at the University of Rochester Medical Center shared a case involving a child who was hospitalized multiple times for asthma due to mold in their living environment. This case illustrates the severe impact that mold exposure can have on children’s respiratory health.
Rhoades emphasized the importance of healthcare providers educating tenants about the health risks associated with their living environments and preventive measures they can take to reduce exposure to environmental toxins such as lead and mold. The hope is that initiatives like this can help reduce the impact of these health risks on children in Rochester and beyond.
