Over the years, lead poisoning has become a major problem in the United States. The worst part of the lead poisoning epidemic is that it has gotten worse and worse as the years have passed. Many harmful and deadly effects have occurred along with the epidemic. Lead poisoning is a serious problem that should not be taken lightly. Even a small pinch could be harmful. It could even end someone's life. Pipe repairs, deteriorating health, and expensive repairs were all effects of the lead poisoning epidemic. Although lead poisoning is being called into question now, according to MotherJones, it has somehow affected children in flint for at least 80 years (Markowitz, Rosner). It all started in the 1920s when lead became a gasoline additive. The very first outbreak of lead poisoning identified was in the 1930s and was thought to have come from paint used in older homes that may have contained lead. This played an important role in children's exposure to it. When it was distributed from the tailpipes of so many cars and trucks, it ended up on the ground where children played and was tracked to places where children spent most of their time. Another way lead was introduced around the world was as a white powder mixed with linseed oil and used in paints that covered the walls of homes, hospitals, schools, and any other type of building until 1978. Although it was known that harmful effects were discovered long ago, children's wooden toys, cribs and windowsills containing lead-contaminated paint, only that year was it banned in household paints. The main issue of this crisis would be the decision to switch from the Detroit water system and receive water from the Flint River, which... middle of paper... brought water so their children could bathe . For example, she says little Stephanie has been outside playing in the dirt and playhouse all day. She is exhausted and ready for a bath, but because they are in an area contaminated by lead water her parents have to boil the water first instead of getting it from the fire hydrant. Little Stephanie will still be at risk because once the lead comes into contact with boiling water it increases its concentration. Until the water crisis is resolved, many innocent people will continue to suffer from health problems, expensive repairs and time-consuming reconstruction. It is disappointing to know that young children will not have access to fresh water. It is unconstitutional to know that many people are not given the same opportunities to have fresh water. This issue is quickly getting out of hand and needs to be resolved immediately.