News
A health expert who specializes in research on human exposure to chemicals recently debriefed East Chicago residents on the dangers of lead contamination. Dr. Bruce Lanphear, of Simon Fraser University, in Vancouver, Canada, met with residents to discuss the history of lead contamination and its effects on both children and adults.
According to an article in the Northwest Indiana Times, studies show even at low levels, lead can have lifelong impacts on children’s academic ability, with evidence suggesting it can lead to lower IQ points, hyperactivity and behavior problems, he said.
Goldberg Kohn, which is representing some Calumet residents, arranged to bring Lanphear to East Chicago to give residents information on exposure to lead and arsenic. David Chizewer, principal in the firm's Litigation Group, said other doctors have been brought in to meet with residents but heard that those experts were dismissive of residents' concerns and downplayed any link between lead exposure and the contamination in the environment, according to an article in the Chicago Tribune.
Goldberg Kohn is working pro bono for some community groups that have formed in response to the lead cleanups. The firm also has offered to talk to individuals about the possibility of filing claims on a pro bono basis.