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This week: Lead poisoning, science and how aging and desire are connected

"The children should not be the canaries in the coal mine," says Dr. Howard Weinberger, a professor emeritus of pediatrics who serves as medical director of the Central/Eastern Regional Lead Poisoning Prevention Resource Center.

Children currently undergo a blood test at ages 1 and 2 to see whether they've been exposed to lead. Weinberger explains on “HealthLink on Air” that he would rather be able to test the homes of children before they are exposed to see whether the homes pose a lead poisoning risk.

In the Syracuse area, up to 80 percent of houses may contain lead paint. It's not a problem if the paint is in good condition, but when it begins to chip or peel, children can be poisoned by eating paint chips or breathing in the dust. Weinberger tells why lead exposure can be so dangerous to the developing brains of children. High levels of lead can also damage the liver and kidneys of children and adults.

Also on this week’s show: antibiotic resistance, and how aging is tied to desire. Tune in this Sunday, June 3 at 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. for "HealthLink on Air."