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Childhood lead exposure poses a significant risk to health and well-being, adversely affecting brain function, nervous system development, and behavioral patterns. Sources of exposure, including dust, soil, consumer products, and water, contribute to this issue, particularly prevalent in Philadelphia due to lead-based paint in older housing units. This literature review examines the health disparities and inequities associated with childhood lead exposure in Philadelphia, focusing on structural racism and residential segregation as crucial lenses for analysis. By delving into the sociocultural context of lead exposure, this study underscores the imperative of collaborative efforts among stakeholders to safeguard Philadelphia’s most vulnerable populations. Healthcare professionals and policymakers play pivotal roles in enhancing funding and prevention strategies. Addressing this issue through the prism of structural racism allows for the identification and rectification of systemic and institutional factors contributing to health disparities. Moreover, this review includes a comprehensive policy analysis of existing legislation targeting this concern in Philadelphia. Through stakeholder collaboration and historical insights, this review aims to offer guidance for shielding the city’s most at-risk children from lead exposure. Additionally, it evaluates current policies to inform and steer future endeavors aimed at mitigating childhood lead exposure in Philadelphia.
Naqvi et al. (Thu,) studied this question.