Lead hell in the Harz: Every second child in the Goslar district!
Lead hell in the Harz: Every second child in the Goslar district!
In the district of Goslar, Lower Saxony, research has shown that more than half of the children of preschool age have increased blood silent values. A current Study of Welt compared to only about five percent nationwide is alarming. The investigation took place between September 2023 and June 2024 at 310 children aged five to seven years and was carried out by researchers from the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich on behalf of the district.
The study shows that the average lead concentration in Goslar is 22.7 micrograms per liter, which potentially endangers the health of the children. It is particularly worrying that children who regularly play on polluted areas have higher lead values. Professor Dr. Dennis Nowak emphasizes that no direct health consequences could be demonstrated by the increased values, but there are known risks such as nerve damage and an increased risk of cancer, especially in children who are also confronted with these values. From 50 micrograms per liter, the World Health Organization recommends preventive measures.
causes and prevention measures
The main cause of the excessive lead concentrations is seen in the region's mining past. Contaminated sites from this time have led to a heavy metal load on the floors. regional today reports that children from less stressed areas often have high lead values. This shows that the problem is more far -reaching than initially assumed.
The results of the Blena2 study were presented on June 3, 2025 and make it clear that there is a need for action. The district of Goslar plans measures to reduce lead exposure. This includes the setting of loaded soils, especially in children's play areas. In addition, it is recommended to provide people in the region tips on risk reduction, such as regular hand washing after playing outdoors and thorough cleaning of food.
outlook and other measures
First environmental report from 2022 had already shown that almost half of the children were over the recommended values in certain districts of Goslar. In order to increase awareness of this serious topic, the district is planning an information campaign. New information is also provided to avoid lead exposure to minimize the risk of children's health.
In view of the concerns of the study, which also shows that the lead concentrations have been reduced in the past decades, but are still far above the national average, it is crucial that both the population and those responsible in the region develop the necessary sensitivity. The health benefits of playing outdoors must not be moved into the background, but should be promoted by targeted prevention strategies.| Details | |
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| Ort | Landkreis Goslar, Deutschland |
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