Government of Jamaica

THE EDITOR, Madam:

THE PAEDIATRIC Association of Jamaica (PAJ) commends the government in eliminating the sale of leaded gasolene from our gas pumps.

Lead is an environmental and health concern and is toxic to the nervous system, particularly to the young developing brain. Lead toxicity can result in seizures, coma, mental retardation, cognitive and learning disabilities and behavioural problems. These lead to under-achievement in school.

Decreasing the exposure of our children to lead can only be beneficial. It is fitting that this was accomplished in April on the "eve" of our celebrating Child Month.

Lead batteries remain a significant source of lead poisoning. Burying lead batteries in backyards or having backyard lead smelting factories result in lead deposits in the soil. Infants and toddlers may inadvertently be poisoned if they play in these areas and ingest the contaminated soil, even in very small quantities. Continued vigilance and public awareness is needed to stop these hazardous practices.

I am, etc.,

JUDY M. TAPPER, President, Paediatric, Association of Jamaica

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