The toxic substances found in toys in the study can cause a variety of harmful consequences. Lead is a neurotoxin with no safe level of exposure. Even small amounts in children can give rise to learning difficulties, attention deficit disorder, trouble with coordination, anemia, as well as visual, spatial and speech problems. Mercury damages the kidneys and can inflict damage on the nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, hematologic, immune and reproductive systems. A child’s nervous system in the early stages of development is particularly prone to damage from mercury: exposure can lead to a loss of IQ, abnormal muscle tone and a loss of motor function. Exposure to arsenic is associated with cancer, skin lesions, high blood pressure and, in children, is correlated with lower IQ and neurological dysfunction. Antimony is carcinogenic and can cause fertility problems.

Year: 2013

From collection: Toxic metals in children’s products: an insight into the market in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia

Cartographer: GRID-Arendal