Dr. Emily Moody presented on the effects of lead in adults at the 20th National Environmental Conference at Tar Creek and was interviewed by the Joplin Globe. Dr. Moody said she’s always been interested in recognizing the differences of toxic metals and how it affects people. “Any exposure that we do have (to lead) comes from our own history,” Moody said. “We mined lead and have used it in many products over a millennia, and that’s how it gets into our environments and our bodies.” Lead affects adults and children differently. The toxic metal affects children’s overall growth and development. Exposures to lead in children can cause decreased bone and muscle growth, lower IQ, nervous system damage, kidney damage and learning disabilities. In adults, lead is stored in the bones and can affect the kidneys, the cardiovascular system, the reproductive system, the nervous system and the digestive system. To read the full article click here.