Kathalia, Oct 21 (V7N) – A rally, human chain, and discussion session were held in Kathalia on Tuesday to raise awareness about lead pollution and its harmful effects. The event, organized by YouthNet Global and Pure Earth Bangladesh with support from UNICEF Bangladesh, took place at 11:00 am on the road in front of the Upazila Parishad.

The program was attended by district coordinator Sajid Mahmud, Upazila coordinator Md. Imran Hossain, and members of the organization’s district and Upazila teams.

After the human chain, participants took part in a rally that circled the main city roads and concluded at the Press Club premises. Participants carried banners, festoons, and placards to spread messages about preventing lead pollution and distributed informational leaflets to pedestrians and shopkeepers.

During the discussion session, speakers highlighted the severe health impacts of lead exposure, particularly on children, noting that it can impair brain development and physical growth. They also warned that adults exposed to lead may suffer from a range of chronic illnesses and neurological disorders. Speakers urged the public to take proactive measures to reduce lead exposure in homes, schools, and the environment.

Lead, a toxic heavy metal, can enter the human body through contaminated air, water, and food. Chronic exposure can cause irreversible brain damage in children, kidney problems, high blood pressure, and reproductive issues in adults. Experts recommend minimizing lead-based paints, contaminated dust, and industrial emissions as preventive measures.

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