Pilot project kicks of in Adjara to address child lead exposure

The Adjara government in western Georgia, with the support of UNICEF Georgia, has launched a pilot project to investigate the source of lead exposure in children between two and seven years of age. 

The first nationwide survey last year revealed that 41 per cent of Georgian children have elevated blood levels of lead. Many of the children were from the coastal Adjara region. 

• Results of national survey unveiled: 41% of Georgian children have elevated blood levels of lead

The pilot project which will be carried out this year by Adjara Health Ministry aims to check blood levels of lead in pregnant women and women who breastfeed their children.

• Source of lead particles found, NGOs and researches release study conclusion

UNICEF plans to support building laboratory capacity in Batumi to test for toxic chemicals in different subjects.

• Gov’t vows treatment, plan to decrease lead levels in affected children

Lead can harm the production of blood cells and bone marrow. It complicates the absorption of calcium needed for strong bones.

Lead damages nerves and causes brain and kidney issues.