Lead Exposure and Crime

Regarding the article on lead exposure and crime, Feb. 7: Before lead was banned from being used in paint, gasoline and cans, generations of us grew up in a lead-tainted environment. According to this study, we should therefore all have criminal or delinquent tendencies, and at least a reduced IQ. Did the study find that those children with aggressive or antisocial behaviors also came from environments with no values, faith or family ties?

The loss of strong values and morals, the lack of shame and the breakdown of the family are what cause criminals--not poverty, not race, not lead and not the environment. Until these basic human standards can be re-instilled in our children, I fear we are doomed.

SAMIRA TAMER

Los Angeles