Health Impact of Lead Pollution in Russia

Summary

The project will investigate the extent of lead contamination and exposures to children in a Russian lead smelter town in order to raise awareness and organize an effective response among residents.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Lead poisoning is one of the most serious environmental health threats to children, and is a significant problem in the Russian Far East. Rudnaya Pristan is known to be highly contaminated with lead from an operating smelter. Blood lead levels among children residing in this area are estimated to be as high as ten times the acceptable level. This project will identify lead poisoning cases, and assess the extent of the problem in order to develop a mitigation plan.

How will this project solve this problem?

Working with residents to encourage the government to investigate the environmental contamination and possible response actions through public awareness and education campaign.

Potential Long Term Impact

To empower residents of Rudnaya Pristan with the information needed to reduce lead exposures and plan for the clean-up of the town.

Project Message

I was born in Primorye and witnessed adverse impacts from environmental exposures of heavy metals on people’s health. Through this project I hope to help children that suffer from lead poisoning.
- Petr Olegovich Sharov, President

Additional Documentation

This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).

Resources