Syracuse University is heading into their fifth year of conducting research on lead exposure for kids in the city of Syracuse. Lead is a dangerous toxin, but knowledge is power, and SU hopes to discover new and useful information about the problem. Bryce Hraska, from the Syracuse University Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, shares more on the study and who can participate.
Lead is known to cause potentially severe mental and developmental defects in children and young adults. Recent research indicates that the effects of lead poisoning can extend to the cardiovascular system as well. The internationally known SU research, supported by the National Institute of Health, hopes to learn more about the cardiovascular issues, focusing specifically on the effects of very low levels of lead in a child’s bloodstream. Ultimately, the study is intended to establish an understanding of early risk factors for cardiovascular problems later in life and what prevention can be done in childhood to reduce that risk.
The study is looking for participants between the ages of 9 and 11 living in the Syracuse area. The time commitment is about 7 hours across two appointments, and each family receives $100 and free information about the test results. Families that have participated say they get a lot out of the experience, learning a great deal about how the science works. One mother recommends participation in the study to any child interested in learning about science.
You can also go to http://syracuselead.syr.edu/ or call (315) 443-4907 for detailed information about the study and opportunities to participate.
